Wausau committee approves new turf‑field and lighting fees and discusses fencing to curb unauthorized use

The Wausau School District committee of the whole voted March 23 to adopt amendments to the facility use fee schedule that add fees for synthetic turf fields and field lighting and to put those fees into effect immediately.

Director of Buildings and Grounds Romanowski said the district had not established fees for synthetic turf or lighting installed after the 2022 referendum and recommended adding the following: varsity turf — $55 per hour for tier 2 user groups and $125 per hour for tier 3 user groups; field lighting for turf — $30 per hour for tier 2 and $125 per hour for tier 3. Romanowski told the committee additional fees could be charged depending on user needs and emphasized those rates are recommended for the 2026–27 school year.

Board members raised concerns about unauthorized access to turf fields, especially at Wausau West, and asked about deterrence measures. Romanowski said the district is preparing a request for proposals to install perimeter fencing and make gate changes at both East and West sites, aiming for a six‑foot fence where feasible and scheduling installation after the spring sports season to avoid activity conflicts. He also said athletic directors have spoken with user groups about appropriate use and the district may add signage but expects fencing to be more effective.

Following discussion on scheduling and potential revenue from community rentals of auditoriums, the chair moved to approve the proposed fee schedule effective immediately; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote. The committee did not record roll‑call votes in the transcript; the full board will be informed and implementation will be managed by the district’s operations department.