California school board tours sports facilities

The California High School baseball/softball field complex has been a significant cooperative project between the district and the athletic boosters clubs.

The Moniteau County R-1 Board of Education toured the improved facilities last week prior to its regular meeting.

The concession stand building, including restrooms and an umpires dressing room, were completed recently, and a chain-linked fence covered with black rubber also has been installed. The baseball field warning track was recovered; and landscaping, including a retaining wall, was added.

The project had been on the district's wish list for the 2014 bond issue, but ultimately was not included in the initial plans approved by taxpayers. However, a well-managed budget on the bond issue left about $300,000 after the football stadium and other district technology improvements were made.

Superintendent Dwight Sanders said money was put toward the start of the ball field project with the partnership of the booster clubs providing much of the volunteer labor.

The booster clubs' work included material for three bullpens, sod and sprinkler systems for the fields, and many other amenities.

"We've had a great partnership with the booster clubs," Sanders said. "They've done great work."

In other business, the board:

Approved four health insurance plans for 2017-18 employees, two of which have monthly premiums less than the board maximum contribution of $425. The difference will be added to the individual employee's Health Savings Account.

Updated the facilities use agreement and fee structure to allow for use of the new football and baseball/softball fields.

Acknowledged the donation of $8,600 from former music teacher Beverly Meyer for the purchase of new timpani for the music department, which will benefit the school as it hopes to host the Tri-County Music Contest in the future.

Set its next regular meeting, a week earlier than normal, for April 12 to allow for reorganization following the April 4 election.