By Carleen Wild
Moody County Enterprise
Voters in the Colman-Egan School District are likely to receive a questionnaire soon, seeking their thoughts on a potential new athletic complex for students and families.
This ongoing conversation in the small rural community has gained traction in recent years, with many arguing that the students who consistently excel in both football and track and field deserve a dedicated facility.
However, not everyone believes such a complex is necessary, especially given the teams successes without one and the high price tag that would likely come with the project.
At a recent meeting, the Hawks School Board decided to continue the discussion, requesting more information from the engineering firm ISG to provide to taxpayers in the district if the project moves forward. The board also agreed to draft a questionnaire in August to gather genuine feedback from the community.
School officials noted that funding for the complex would most likely not come from a new bond, but instead from capital outlay funds already available to the district. Conversations also centered around the current stability of funding, given deep cuts in the Department of Education and the resulting impact on local districts.
Board President Kirsten Taggart suggested that waiting for the political climate to stabilize could mean little progress.
Superintendent Scott Hemmer recommended that, regardless of any athletic complex, the district should consider purchasing available land as an investment for future growth.
I would tell you, based on looking at the two land areas, since were pretty much out of land here, theres almost one where, even if you werent doing a project, I would seriously consider buying that parcel, whether youre doing a project or not, just because if we have to do another addition in 10 or 15 years – I get it, thats a very long view – but were out of parking here. Our playground space was reduced by a third. I dont know if youd consider growing the campus size, but that would be my recommendation, said Hemmer.
The board set prices for admission to athletic events, meal prices, staff wages and approved various boards and other appointments before the discussion on the athletic complex was held.
See page 7 for listing.
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