Residents seek answers as athletic complex discussion moves forward

By Carleen Wild
Moody County Enterprise

Colman area residents frustrated with ongoing discussions about a proposed athletic complex behind their homes — on land that is at least partially considered floodplain — took their concerns to city leaders this past week.
At issue is whether the city should annex land recently purchased by the school district for the project. A special meeting was held this past Tuesday to address the issue.
For some residents, the request is simple: do whatever prevents the complex from being built at that location. The property, which was recently purchased by the school district, sits north of Highway 34 near a slough and across from Agtegra on the eastern edge of town.
Several residents addressed the council, raising concerns not only about the project itself, but its direct impact on their homes, which sit between the proposed site and existing development. Many said they never imagined their backyards — long viewed as quiet, open space — could one day border a busy new hub for school and community events.
City Attorney Jennifer Nelson told residents that annexation, even if pursued, would not be immediate. The process would require formal action by the school district, including a vote by the school board to consent to annexation, followed by a petition outlining the property boundaries. From there, the city would be required to conduct a formal study addressing impacts to infrastructure, including water, sewer and electric systems, before the proposal would move through zoning review.
If the city declines to act, Nelson noted, the matter could instead fall to the county.
Residents, still unclear on how they might formally oppose the project, pressed for answers on how their concerns would be considered in the process.
While many voiced strong opposition to the proposed location, several noted they are not against a new track and football facility altogether — only where it may be built.
Colman-Egan remains one of the few districts in the area without a dedicated track facility, and its current small football field sits behind the existing school campus where there isn’t enough room to expand, according to school officials. As enrollment grows and facilities strain to keep up, school officials say there is quiet but consistent support for expanded athletic infrastructure.
For now, city officials say more information is needed before any decision can be made.
The Moody County Enterprise will continue to follow the story.