USD 446 has reached an agreement with the City of Independence regarding usage of the Central Park Sports Complex.

 

That's the latest from this month's board meeting, where a motion was finally made following over a year of discussion and negotiation between the two parties. USD 446 had two proposals to choose between, one which was $70,000 per year with a $300,000 property credit, contributing to the first ten years. The second option was a $65,000 per year obligation, with a $350,000 property credit, that included no immediate payment for five years but added 3% annual escalation.

 

District Superintendent Jason McAfee says he recommends the stability of the first option.

 

It was not a unanimous decision for the board to approve. Board Member Sam Blackard says he feels the investment is too much for not enough of a return.

 

Joining Blackard in opposing the motion was Board Member Jen Rutledge. She says she feels the process wasn't handled as well as it should have.

 

The motion for the agreement passed by a 5-2 vote, with Blackard and Rutledge voting no. The agreement goes into place on January 1st, 2026.