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By Bob Weaver
The Calhoun County Board of Education said last night they will consider
giving the old CHS practice field, an area known as "The Pit," and parking lot
to the Calhoun Commission for recreational purposes. The Board had earlier
offered, which the Commission accepted, the larger area of the old athletic
area, best known as Wayne Underwood Field.
The Commission asked the school board to reconsider adding the adjacent
land to the complex, which will be made available for special events and
recreation for county residents.
Calhoun Commission President Larry McCallister appeared before the Board
to discuss the resolution passed by the Commission. "We're here to work out
what is best for the county," he said. "This will be a project dedicated to
kids and families."
He asked the Board to consider placing a change of scope clause in the
deed, which would allow future governing bodies to mutually agree on a
change, beyond the current locked-in stance on recreation. "It would be
easier for future generations to make a change for the public good," said
Ron Blankenship.
McCallister said the Commission would apply for a boat ramp and money for
a boat dock to be built on the practice field near the Little Kanawha River.
"There are a number of other ideas floating around to improve the use," he
said.
Board member Ralph Cunningham said money was needed to complete
projects at the new athletic complex at Mt. Zion. He wants to sell the
practice field and parking lot to the highest bidder. "It seems to me it's all
giving. That's all we're doing."
Cunningham reminded Board members they had monetary obligations to the
school system.
New board member Don Harris said "We're still doing this for the kids."
Board member Carlene Frederick said the practice field and the parking lot
were all on the floodplain.
Burl Simers, board member, said it is not likely the property could be sold for
much money. "I think we'd get only $5000 to $6000 for it," he said. "I don't
see much value to it in raising money for the new field."
The discussion concluded in a consensus to begin working on a deed for the
entire property, including the practice field and parking lots, known as the
old Barr property.
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