Freeman School District asks city permission to explore irrigation well on school property

Jake Teege, superintendent of the Freeman School District, told the Freeman City Council he is asking for permission to explore drilling an irrigation well on school district property as the district plans a stadium remodel. "I am here to ask permission from the city to explore the option of drilling a well on school district property," Teege said, noting the well would be for irrigation only and that building water would remain tied to the city.

Teege said similar wells in nearby districts reach about 250 feet and that Freeman would likely need 285–300 feet of drilling to reach roughly 50 gallons per minute to service sprinkler heads. He estimated the project, including connection to existing lines, could cost the district about $75,000–$80,000 and said the school board had not yet decided whether to proceed.

The council discussed permitting and precedent. The chair said the city currently has an ordinance restricting private wells, so any change would require ordinance readings. A council member urged a conditional-use approach to limit wells to irrigation and prevent broader use: "If we went down this road, I think we'd have to do it by a conditional use," the council member said. Members also recommended the district consult state permitting authorities before drilling.

Council members expressed conditional support for the district exploring the option and the chair committed to placing a first reading on an upcoming meeting agenda so the council can consider drafting appropriate language and conditions. The chair said the first reading would allow time for public comment, for the district to confer with the school board and for staff to draft a conditional-use or ordinance amendment if warranted.

Next steps: the chair said the council will schedule a first reading on the matter at the next meeting; the district will continue discussions with its board and state permitting officials.