Sports space needed

PATEROS – The School Board unanimously approved Resolution 287 to authorize a ballot measure for a two-year capital levy to appear on the April 2019 election. The levy seeks funds for health and safety improvements to elementary learning areas including the construction of a covered play area. It would also fund renovation of the second-floor gymnasium and add a disability ramp to the music room. Ballots including the levy measure will be mailed to voters in the first week of April.

School board members also voted to request a zoning change for property it owns along U.S. 97 from light industrial to public use. The Pateros Planning Commission is reviewing property zoning within the city limits, so the board decided it is the opportune time to request the change.

School superintendent Greg Goodnight requested the zoning change to better align the property with the objectives of the school district.

One proposal for the eight-acre tract is to use the land for practice and playing fields for school sports. Currently the baseball and softball teams are limited to using the same field for practices and games. Last fall the school added a varsity girls soccer team that presents increased demands for practice and game space.

“In 2013 the school board conducted an extensive study associated with a bond proposal that didn’t pass,” said Goodnight. “We can refer back to those studies as part of our decision process.”

In other business, the school board approved hiring Shane Kelly as the head coach for boys’ varsity baseball, and Jesse Villalobos as head coach for varsity boys’ soccer. The board also approved hiring Teagan Straub as the new head coach for junior high girls’ volleyball. Pateros spring sports begin on Feb. 25.