Pawnee City school board approves mower purchase, fitness fee increase and issues track RFP

The Pawnee City Public Schools Board voted unanimously at its regular meeting to purchase a new grounds mower, increase fitness-center fees, and issue a request for proposals to rebuild the school track.

The board approved a motion to buy a Grasshopper mower after reviewing three bids; the administration reported the Grasshopper quote at $12,600 for a new unit and $11,000 for a demo model. The board discussed potential trade‑in options and past engine replacement costs on the older mower before approving the purchase.

Administrators proposed doubling the fitness-center membership rates — raising the family rate from $80 to $160 per year and the single rate from $60 to $120. The board discussed honoring existing memberships through their current term and agreed the new rates would help sustain equipment maintenance and modest facility improvements. The motion to raise fees was approved unanimously.

The board also authorized an RFP for reconstruction of the track, with administration estimating the project at $70,000–$80,000 and recommending it be sent to three contractors. The RFP includes a timeline and a liquidated-damages clause for work extending beyond an August 15 completion date; the board approved sending the RFP out to bidders.

All votes on the above items were recorded as unanimous. The board chair closed the agenda items and moved on to other business.

The decisions will allow staff to move forward with procurement processes and solicit bids; the board did not identify immediate additional funding sources beyond the district budget and existing reserves.