SHAWANO, WI- The Shawano School Board is leaning towards installing a turf field at Shawano Community High School for football and soccer games, despite it being a contentious issue in the April referendum.
During a work session on June 3, board members discussed the turf field with representatives from Hoffman Planning and Design, the consulting firm assisting the Shawano School District with its referendum plans. Although the initial cost of the turf field is high, it is anticipated to significantly cut maintenance expenses by about 90%.
The board also discussed plans to install track facilities at the high school. Currently, track meets are held at Shawano Community Middle School, but with potential plans to build a new middle school, the district is hesitant to invest in facilities that might soon be obsolete. “We actually have schools that cancel track meets because they won’t run on our track,” noted board member Bobbi Lemerond.
The turf field proposal, along with other elements like an orchestra pit for the high school auditorium and a day care center at Hillcrest Primary School, were identified as sticking points in the previous referendum. The day care center has since been shelved.
In conclusion, while the initial investment for a turf field is substantial, the long-term benefits in terms of reduced maintenance costs and increased usability make it an attractive option for the Shawano School District. The board hopes to resolve community concerns and move forward with a plan that best serves the students and the district’s future needs.
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