The Cole County R-1 School Board held its regular monthly meeting on Thursday, Dec. 26.
Under new business, the Board voted to approve the consent agenda as presented. The Board approved a payroll fund transfer of $189,000.
Chris Hart provided an update on the track project. The track surface crew are planning to stripe the track within the next few weeks. They need dry weather to do the striping, but the temperature is not much of an issue as long as it is above freezing. The Board is still looking at building plans for the concessions/restrooms/storage facility. They are still waiting to hear if they will be approved for a DNR loan to move forward with the lights and electrical work.
Mike Harrison, president of the Athletic Boosters, discussed the possibility of building a multi-purpose facility on the south side of the baseball concession building with the Board. He said it would be used for batting practice, pitching and fielding for both baseball and softball. The district could also use it for golf practice. Harrison is working on getting donations to cover the cost of the building and would welcome any donations. Renee Bungart, vice-president of the Athletic Boosters, talked to the Board about the possibility of having all school clothing apparel for students to be purchased through the Athletic Boosters. This would help the students by allowing the Boosters to purchase in large quantities and possibly help them with raising funds to support the athletes. The Board discussed the issue and decided to study it a little longer before making a final decision.
The Russellville City Council prepared a written agreement with the Cole Co R-1 School granting an easement to the city to work on the water lines that are located on school property. The Board voted to approve the lease agreement and pay for half of the cost of getting the agreement prepared with the school paying $465. The Board voted to sell the fire hydrants that are located on school property attached to the water lines belonging to the city for $1. The Board approved the MSBA board policy GBH to comply with the new law passed by the legislature concerning electronic media.
In closed session, the Board voted to employ Lisa Distler as the high school nurse/office assistant for the remainder of the school year and also voted to relieve Chris Leuckel from his boys basketball coaching duties.
The December Board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 19.