Board tables Pete King concession‑stand naming as members push policy review

The Linn‑Mar Comm School District board heard a formal request from the Linn‑Mar Booster Club to name the ball‑complex concession stand in honor of longtime volunteer Pete King, but delayed approval until the board reviews and clarifies its naming policy.

Carrie Smith, treasurer of the Booster Club, presented the request and described King’s decades of volunteer service at concession stands and district events. "The current booster club would like to honor Pete’s legacy by naming one of Linn‑Mar's concession stands in his memory," Smith said.

Athletic director Tanya Moe also urged the board to honor King, recalling his near‑constant presence at athletic events and noting past precedents: "This is kind of similar to back in the day when Steve Colton passed away and he was a fixture ... and we named the wing, the Colton Center Wing." Board members said they respected the grassroots nature of the request and King’s service.

Several board members nonetheless urged caution. Director Britt expressed support for Pete King but recommended pausing approval until the policy committee finalizes clearer rules about naming structures and acceptance of gifts. "There is so much discussion right now about naming all of these different things ... our policy isn't entirely clear, especially on naming things after people," she said.

After discussion the original motion to approve the naming was amended to table the request pending review by the policy committee; the board voted to table the naming motion. Directors discussed developing consistent criteria (including when a name might be revoked, and how acceptance of gifts would be handled) before approving future namings.

The Booster Club may re‑present the request after the policy committee returns recommended edits; the board emphasized honoring volunteers while seeking consistent, transparent policy language around naming and fundraising.