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Board approves phase-one resolution for new baseball/softball site; boosters and student athletes speak in support
Summary
The board voted unanimously to authorize phase 1 site work for a new baseball and softball complex after staff presented 100% drawings and estimated costs and students spoke in favor of improved, safer playing fields.
Board members approved a resolution authorizing staff to begin phase 1 site work for a proposed baseball and softball complex after hearing updated 100% drawings and cost estimates.
Administration said the 100% drawings and a construction contingency put the phase 1 site-development package near $4 million; the resolution before the board was written as a not-to-exceed authorization of roughly $3.785 million for the immediate phase. Staff said that the estimate matched the earlier 50% estimates closely and that the delta is largely contingency and allowances. Administrators noted electrical conduit or future lighting would be scoped and priced separately.
The resolution included written language tying the district's commitment to a private/public funding approach. Staff said the project is intended to proceed only after a 70% private-funding commitment is secured; legal counsel drafted the resolution and the administration said the board would not proceed if the 70% commitment were not in place. The board discussed financing options and future phases; trustees asked staff to continue refining financing options and to present next steps in later meetings.
Student athletes addressed the board in support of the project. Caitlin Gammissini, a junior and longtime softball player, described field-safety issues and how they affect play and practice: "We've had to go out with parent help and, like, try and flatten out our field because there's lips. And I don't think that's fair for our athletes," she said. Aaron Thomas, a junior baseball player, told trustees the new facility would give the teams a field they could feel proud of after a long season of offseason training.
Motion and vote: Mr. Ballant made the motion to approve the resolution and Mr. Harris seconded. Mrs. Logan called the roll; all five trustees voted aye and the resolution passed.
Administration said next steps would include executing initial site work if the private-funding commitment condition is met and presenting financing options for subsequent phases. The board also received an updated scene-shop cost estimate for a separate project but took no action on the scene shop at this meeting.
