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Lea County approves $500,000 for two Hobbs Municipal Schools turf fields
Summary
The Lea County Commission voted unanimously to provide $500,000 to Hobbs Municipal Schools to replace two heavily used grass fields with artificial turf; school representatives argued turf would extend year‑round safe use for PE and community sports.
The Lea County Commission voted unanimously on May 8 to provide $500,000 to Hobbs Municipal Schools for the installation of two artificial turf fields.
School representative Mr. Strickland told commissioners the two grass fields have been worn down by community and school use and “we can't keep grass on them,” arguing that artificial turf would allow year‑round use, better support PE classes and youth sports, and reduce maintenance. He said a contractor is on board and work could begin after state track meets and be staged around graduation.
Chair Gary Ittson entertained a motion to fund the project, a motion and second were recorded, and the roll call vote returned unanimous support. No additional conditions or amendments were recorded at the meeting.
Supporters said the fields are used beyond school hours by local sports leagues and community groups; commissioners expressed agreement with investing in durable athletic surfaces. The funding will be processed through the county’s budgetary procedures and any construction scheduling will be coordinated with school district officials.
The commission’s action at the May 8 meeting completes a formal pledge of county funds but did not include construction details or a contract award; those will be managed by the school district and contractor.
