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School committee waives weekday practice fees for Blackstone Millville Youth Basketball League
Summary
After hearing from the league about participation and financial strain on families, the committee voted to waive weekday gym practice fees for the 2025–2026 season while reserving custodial scheduling and building‑use conditions; members emphasized long‑term budgeting tradeoffs.
The Blackstone–Millville Regional School Committee voted on Oct. 9 to waive weekday facility practice fees for the Blackstone Millville Youth Basketball League (BMYBL) for the upcoming season, following a presentation from league president Jen Liot and discussion about impacts on families and district operations.
Liot told the committee the league served about 130 recreation players and 53 travel players in 2024, provides scholarships to families in need and partners closely with district coaches and teams. “We are asking the school committee to help us keep costs down for our families,” Liot said, describing prior donations the league has made to school equipment and park improvements.
Board members probed the district cost: custodial overtime, utilities and loss of facility rental revenue. Scott from facilities explained that weekday coverage would typically require a three‑hour custodian shift; committee members discussed changing hours to match custodian schedules and limiting use when school needs conflict. Facilities staff and the league confirmed weekend use would still incur regular fees.
After debate about precedent and the district’s budget constraints, the committee approved the waiver motion on a voice vote and asked administrators to (a) confirm final schedules with building principals, (b) complete the formal facility use paperwork and (c) ensure custodial coverage and parking logistics on event days. The chair noted the decision was made in recognition of the league’s community contributions and the district’s interest in supporting local youth programs.
Implementation notes: Facilities staff will confirm the exact cost impact and document the waiver in district records. The committee flagged that waivers reduce facility‑use revenue and should be considered during future budget planning.
Quote: “We are asking the school committee to help us keep costs down for our families by allowing us to be categorized as group one,” Jen Liot said during her presentation.
