Elkhorn board authorizes pursuit of sponsor‑funded Daktronics video boards, stadium sound system

Elkhorn Area School District board members voted Jan. 26 to authorize staff to pursue purchase contracts for Daktronics video boards and a stadium sound system, contingent on lining up multi‑year sponsor commitments or alternative financing.

District presenters told the board they had evaluated audio solutions (quotes ranged from roughly $120,000 to $250,000) and recommended a sponsor‑driven model to avoid tapping district reserves. Staff said Daktronics will help structure sponsorships but does not solicit sponsors; the district would seek anchor partners whose multi‑year commitments would underwrite equipment and leasing costs. The vendor projects a 10‑year equipment life and typically structures sponsor commitments over an initial five‑year revenue horizon.

Board members asked detailed questions about funding and risk. One member summarized an example sponsorship package presented by staff — four anchor slots at an illustrative $12,000 per year each — and asked whether that equates to a $48,000 annual commitment and what the 5‑year and total obligations would be. Staff confirmed the anchors are sold on a multi‑year basis and emphasized that the district will not sign purchase contracts until sponsor commitments are secured or a leasing option (for example, a state land trust lease) is in place.

Several trustees voiced concern about community optics and the prospect that longtime voters who support only core services could view the expenditure negatively. One board member cited a recent local company disaster in Palmyra to ask what would happen if an anchor sponsor defaulted; staff said the district would need to find replacement sponsors or cover shortfalls temporarily (for example, via boosters or other interim sources) and that contract terms and contingency plans would be addressed before final purchase.

Supporters said new boards and improved audio could produce revenue and community benefits (advertising revenue, event promotion, clearer stadium audio) and described potential non‑advertising uses such as student spotlights and enhanced promotion at community events. Several trustees said the audio system is a top priority and favored pursuing the larger board if sponsor sales supported that scale.

The motion to move forward with the video‑board and stadium sound system as presented passed on a voice vote. Staff will return with sponsor commitments, proposed contracts, and recommended financing options before the district signs purchase agreements.

What’s next: Staff said they will attempt to line up anchor sponsors and provide follow‑up details on financing and contract protections, including contingencies if sponsors withdraw.