Board directs administration to draft Miracle League contract after hearing partners— pitch for accessible field
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Summary
Board members heard a detailed proposal from Miracle League of Dane County and the Madison West Middleton Rotary Club to build an accessible Miracle League baseball field on underutilized district land near Sugar Creek Elementary, with partners estimating a $3—3M fundraising target and a roughly two-year build timeline; the board voted to direct administration to return with a draft contract and decision points for closed-session review.
The Verona Area School District board on Dec. 15 heard a presentation from Miracle League of Dane County and the Madison West Middleton Rotary Club on creating a fully accessible Miracle League baseball field on district property near Sugar Creek Elementary.
Speakers described the program—s inclusive model, volunteer "buddy" system, and the rehabilitative and social benefits for children with disabilities. A Miracle League representative described growth at other sites and participation levels, saying the program began with roughly 92 participants and grew to more than 300 over five years. Rotary and Miracle League partners said they expected to raise about $3,000,000 (acknowledging that total could grow to $3.5—4,000,000) and suggested a two-year timeline from commitments to play.
The district presented results of a third-party site viability study recommending a site north of Central Office and west of Sugar Creek Elementary as the best fit because of topography, existing utilities and fewer stormwater issues. Administrators also said the project would likely include a nominal land-lease arrangement and a shared-use agreement allowing school access during the day and Miracle League programming after hours.
Nate (district counsel/administration) told the board that the project would require legal work and careful contract language, highlighting clauses used in other municipalities (for example, how improvements are treated if a lease ends) and recommended a closed-session review of draft contract decision points before final agreements.
After discussion, Christopher moved and John seconded a motion directing administration to prepare a draft agreement and key decision points to be reviewed in a future closed session. The motion passed by voice vote with ayes recorded and no opposition. Administration and the partners said that a board vote of confidence on the record could help secure donor commitments as fundraising advances.
The board requested that administration return with a draft agreement, the site plan, details about maintenance responsibilities and clarity on any fiscal implications before any final land-use or lease decisions.