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Recently, three of five propositions were approved in the Bond 2022 election. As a result of the two propositions (D and E)* that did not pass, our Athletic Department has proposed several changes to accommodate growing facility needs, which includes restructuring the budget. These changes will impact schedules, program availability, and overall access to Guy K. Traylor Stadium.
ADJUSTING SCHEDULES
Reason: We will have to restrict the use of Traylor Stadium due to needed repairs and to limit wear and tear. Traylor is a varsity-sized stadium, which is currently being shared by six high school programs, and our District will add two more high school campuses in the next four years. The stadium currently hosts football games, track meets, and various events for Special Education, ROTC, and the community.
Impact: Each high school will play one “Home” game at their campus practice facility. Additionally, the stadium will only be used for essential events and all others will be rerouted to other facilities. This will limit ticket sales, media, and scout access, and participation from cheer, band, and drill teams.
BUDGET RESTRUCTURING
Input was sought from three independent committees consisting of area superintendents, principals, coaches, and staff from all secondary campuses. These committees were responsible for reviewing the issues and making recommendations for funding sources.
Reason: The current need from Bond 2022 still exists and will need to be addressed utilizing existing funds within the Athletic budget. Currently, the stadium turf has 12-18 months of life expectancy remaining and the cost to replace the turf is approximately $564,000. The current budget for athletic maintenance is $150,000 and not sufficient to cover the costs.
Possible Funding Sources:
- Generate additional revenue by increasing ticket prices, reserving limited parking spots, and seeking out new or renewed sponsorship opportunities.
- Reduce current budgets for staff uniform allotments, coaches’ professional development allotments, and cutting meal allotments for away games.
- Reduce program offerings and staff positions for football, tennis, golf, and sub-varsity teams.
TIMELINE
With the approved 2023-24 budget, funds for the turf will be available as early as September 2023 and installed by December 2023.
More details were provided at the Board Workshop on Monday, April 3. The presentation and video of this meeting have been provided below.
*Proposition D included Traylor Stadium LED lighting and turf in the amount of $4,978,501. Proposition E included land for a second stadium and a stadium with 10,000 seats, band storage, locker rooms, and CTE classrooms in the amount of $194,904,700.
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