SCS Sets Facility Fee for Fields

SCHOHARIE - The snow and ice may be tiresome and boring for you, but it could mean more revenue for Schoharie Central School.

Superintendent David Blanchard noted that the district's newly refurbished turf fields, some of which are equipped with lights, could be in high demand this spring because of the amount of snow and ice this winter. There should be a lot of outside use this spring and summer, he added.

Noting that the spring sports season will be starting soon, school board members last Thursday approved a fee structure for district facilities, including the athletic fields. Mr. Blanchard noted that the fees will only be paid for by outside organizations such as colleges. Local organizations such as the Little League and System Soccer will not be charged.

The requests for field use has already started and have come from SUNY colleges as far away is Utica, Mr. Blanchard said.

There is a "large interest" because of the turf surface and the lights. "That field will be very enticing," he added.

The district will charge the outside organizations by the hours. Mr. Blanchard said the revenue can go to help pay for items such as student trips, clubs, and other things.

Board members approved the facility fee structure as follows:

* Artificial turf field (no lights), three-hour minimum, $175 per hour.

* Artificial turf field (with lights), three-hour minimum, $225 per hour.

* Tennis courts (no lights), $50 per hour.

* Tennis courts (with lights), $100 per hour.

* Softball field, $50 per hour.

* Softball field (with lights), $100 per hour.

* Regular athletic fields/track, $50 per hour.

* Auditorium, high school, $250 per hour.

* Elementary/high school cafeteria, $100 per hour.

* Elementary/high school gym, $125 per hour; 

* Classroom/library, $50 per hour.