Board releases retainage to Mid America Golf despite concerns about middle school track

The Smithville R‑II Board of Education approved release of the retainage payment to Mid America Golf and Landscape related to the middle school track project.

Administration reported site observations showing the track surface has hardened and improved since February, though it still requires maintenance and additional grading in some areas. Administration said Mid America completed work asked of them, provided a memorandum of understanding on ongoing grooming as a gesture of good faith, and legal counsel recommended closing the retainage item. An outside contractor (Culture Excavating) inspected the track and reported improving conditions.

At least one board member expressed continuing concerns about the track’s condition and about clarity in the original contract and change orders; that member said they would remain a “no” vote in spirit but would honor the majority. Another board member said they had previously put a stop to work when they had concerns and noted the district will prioritize continued maintenance. Administration said the project was funded from bond proceeds and that concrete work had been the original scope while track changes arose during construction.

The board voted to release the retainage check. The motion passed; the transcript records dissenting remarks and an abstention earlier in the meeting but does not provide a roll‑call vote identifying who voted which way in the final tally.