Sunnyvale authorizes nonbinding MOU with Sunnyvale ISD to explore joint youth sports fields

The Sunnyvale Town Council voted 5-0 April 28 to authorize the town manager to enter a nonbinding memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Sunnyvale Independent School District to explore joint development of youth sports fields at two sites: the Sunnyvale ISD middle school track site and a greenfield area east of the intermediate school.

Town staff said the MOU records mutual intent to partner on development but does not commit funds or approve construction. Staff told council they will return with detailed interlocal agreement (ILA) language that will spell out hours of public use, maintenance responsibilities, cost-sharing and scheduling. The town manager said the school district is already soliciting bids for turf and lighting at the middle school and staff currently estimates that a full turf-and-lighting conversion at the middle school could cost about $2.5 million; that figure was characterized as an early estimate and not a request for funds.

Public commenters who supported the MOU said the school district can assist with safety protocols and liability management, and suggested amenities such as restrooms be discussed in the ILA. Residents asked whether the town could piggyback on school district contracts for lightning detection and noted that coordinating policies on heat and cancellations will be important.

Councilmembers said the MOU will help the town and district coordinate scheduling and maintenance but stressed the distinction between a nonbinding MOU and a later binding ILA. Motion: authorize town manager to enter into a memorandum of understanding with Sunnyvale ISD for development and improvement of youth sports fields as outlined in item K-2. Mover: Mr. Allen. Second: Mr. Clark. Vote: 5–0 (Mr. Finch and Mr. Eldridge absent).

Staff said they expect to return to council soon with the draft ILA and specific project costs and contractor information for council approval.