Board OKs PTO-funded mini turf soccer field, awards contract to local bidder

The Merton Community School District Board of Education voted unanimously Nov. 17 to award a contract to ForeverLawn to install a mini turf soccer field at Martin Primary, authorizing the district to spend up to $80,000 on the project.

District administrator Ron recommended selecting ForeverLawn after an administrative review of competitive bids, noting the company was the low responsive bidder and has performed prior turf work for the district. "ForeverLawn is a local business who is the lowest bidder, and we've had very good luck with them," Ron said in presenting the recommendation. He told the board the administration expects the final cost to be below $76,700 but sought the $80,000 authorization to allow for unforeseen items during installation.

The project will be funded in part by a recent $40,000 donation from the PTO (the administration said the majority of that came from a color run). Ron said the installation would likely take place next spring or summer and that ForeverLawn's bid includes a 15-year warranty.

Board member (motion-maker) moved approval and a second followed; the board approved the motion by voice vote with no opposition. "Thank you to our PTO and families," a board member said during the vote.

The administration will proceed with contract execution and scheduling; construction will require blocking off the work area during installation.

What happens next: Administration will finalize the contract with ForeverLawn and coordinate the installation schedule for spring/summer 2026, and will report back to the board on progress and any material changes to cost or timing.