Boise High head cross-country and track coach Aaron Ols Wenger asked the Soda Springs City Council on Monday for permission to allow his team to camp at Kelly Park the night before a meet at Soda Springs High School on Friday, Sept. 5.

Wenger told the council his team usually stays in hotels when they travel but rising room rates and transportation costs mean the program can no longer afford that option for about 40 students and coaches. "We would love to request to camp at Kelly Park the night before," Wenger said, describing the group as respectful and willing to follow park rules.

The request was discussed with Justin Hanson, identified at the meeting as the city parks guide, who said the city does not normally allow camping on ballfields but makes exceptions for special events and has an area across the West Kelly Park track that can accommodate tents. "There are areas that make it good," Hanson said, noting the city has allowed similar arrangements for past tournaments.

Council members present and staff indicated they were comfortable granting the request as long as the team coordinates with City Hall and parks staff. Council members asked Wenger to call City Hall to be put in contact with Hanson for final arrangements; Hanson and other staff said they would help the team find a plan B in case of late storms. Council consensus was to allow camping if the group follows the city’s rules and coordinates with Justin Hanson.

The council did not adopt a formal written permit during the meeting; Wenger was told to contact City Hall to arrange logistics and to confirm locations and any site rules.

Wenger also said the Boise High team plans a dinner and gathering with Soda Springs High athletes and boosters the night before the race and would be packed up before the competition the next day.