Board approves up to $200,000 in LTFM funds to rebuild back stadium and improve practice fields

The Cannon Falls School Board approved facility-committee recommendations to move forward with specifications and quotes for improvements to the back stadium and campus practice fields, not to exceed $200,000 from long-term facility maintenance (LTFM) funds.

Facility representatives described a long-neglected back stadium with a pronounced crown and poor playing conditions. The project scope includes grading/dirt work, irrigation, new sod, potable water access near the elementary, and modest spectator amenities; the committee said the work would allow junior-high and varsity soccer and football to play on-campus and free up lower-field space for practice. Speakers said contractors are prepared to schedule work after the track season so the improvements would not interfere with spring athletics.

Administration and the finance presenter explained LTFM funds are state-allocated dollars intended for deferred maintenance and health-and-safety projects; the district receives roughly $330,000 annually for such items and the recommended $200,000 was presented as an allowable LTFM expenditure. Trustees asked about quotes and contractors; the committee reported multiple bids for dirt work and irrigation were out for pricing and that the district expects to come in under the stated limit.

The motion to approve specifications and proceed with quotes carried by voice vote. Board members said they view the improvements as deferred-maintenance work that increases use of existing campus facilities for high-school, junior-high and youth events.

Next steps: facilities staff will finalize specifications, gather firm quotes and schedule construction to begin after the track season so fields will be ready for fall sports.