Beatrice Public Schools staff updated the board on plans to replace the district’s 13-year-old artificial turf, saying multiple bids are in hand and the district is working to limit costs.

Speaker 7 said the district has worked with Nemaha Sports to solicit bids; “they received 4 bids” and the vendor noted many bids arrive just at the deadline. Speaker 7 gave a price range the district was quoted: “between 5 to $600,000,” and described disposal as one of the larger cost drivers. Staff discussed options such as rolling up removed turf and making it available for pickup to reduce disposal expenses.

Speaker 7 said the district is limiting cosmetic options (for example, minimizing colored end zones) to be as cost-efficient as possible and is aiming to do the work after the football season to have the field ready for spring athletics. District staff also described sharing and scheduling arrangements with local colleges and multiple user groups (marching band, soccer, track) that increase wear and make natural grass infeasible.

No formal contract award or vote occurred at this meeting; staff reported bids are due imminently and will return to the board with recommendations when procurement details are ready.