Donor‑led futsal court proposal presented; committee welcomes idea but raises maintenance concerns

Administration updated the committee on a donor‑led proposal to fundraise and install an outdoor mini‑pitch (futsal court) — a fenced, painted concrete or pavement surface sometimes adaptable for basketball — behind Longley School. The concept, developed in partnership with U.S. Soccer and Hearts of Pine (a Portland club), would be fundraised and donated, with the district responsible for routine upkeep once installed.

Superintendent Jake Legliff said the district is not being asked to commit funds for installation and that the partnership is seeking the committee’s blessing to continue pursuing the project and a location assessment. Jason Fuller has been working with the partners on the idea.

Members generally expressed support for the idea as a community asset — particularly for winter play and multiuse recreation — but several raised operational concerns. Member Amber Boden and others noted prior vandalism on district athletic facilities and asked how the district would protect the new court; Member Jensen noted recent staffing and position cuts and asked whether the district should take on additional maintenance responsibilities. Members suggested strong community stewardship, limited district obligations (no plowing or new lighting) and exploring youth stewardship options to reduce vandalism risk and operating costs.

Legliff said the district would assume routine upkeep but expected the installation to be rugged with modest maintenance; he asked for direction on whether to continue pursuing the partnership and fundraising. Members asked administration to provide long‑term maintenance cost estimates before advancing the project further.