Exeter resident asks Wyoming Area board for approval to begin fundraising for turf complex at Atlas

Rhonda Pisano of Exeter asked the Wyoming Area School Board on Oct. 28 for permission to begin fundraising to develop a turf complex at the Atlas, saying the facility would serve student athletes, marching band, drama and community youth sports. Pisano described fundraising plans that would include corporate sponsors, grant applications and community donations, and asked whether the district could host funds under a 501(c)(3).

Board members and staff responded that the district does not have its own 501(c)(3) and that the district's foundation has limitations; they said they would work with Pisano to identify an appropriate conduit if the board grants permission to pursue fundraising. Board members and district staff also noted a procurement constraint: to qualify for CoStars pricing a district purchase would be required. The board did not take a formal vote; members agreed to review the proposal and follow up on legal, insurance and procurement questions.

During the public exchange, Pisano and others discussed likely project details: vendors estimate an artificial turf lifespan of about 10 years, the existing stadium lights could be retrofitted to LED and be used with the field, and rental fees charged to outside groups could be set aside to fund future turf replacement. Pisano said the community group had not yet solicited sponsors or grants because it wanted the board's approval to begin formal fundraising.

No formal directive or funding commitment was made during the meeting; the board requested staff and legal review of possible structures for holding contributions and potential insurance and maintenance obligations before any district purchase or formal partnership proceeds.