Hundreds of "campaign" signs, Facebook pages, letters to editors, public demonstrations at Reynolds Field, the Hastings Library and in the village, prompted avid interest in the community as the vote approached.
The referendum proposes that the Hastings School District issue an $8.1 million bond and use $500,000 from its capital reserves to make district-wide improvements, including the renovation or rebuilding of the Reynolds Field athletic complex, which is in need of major repairs.
Opponents contend that the village should preserve the natural grass, at-risk foliage and traditional Reynolds Field property that many believe would be spoiled by installing an artificial "plastic grass field" that may damage the environment and be unsafe and expensive in the long term.
Those in support of the $8.1 million bond, more than half of which would go toward a new competitive track and Geo-Turf synthetic field and other athletic complex improvements, believe the field renovations are cost saving and will make the facility safer for use by athletes and residents.
Other work includes roof replacements, exterior masonry repairs, electrical system upgrades, renovations to the high school auditorium and other improvements.
For more information on the school bond, log on to the Hastings School District site or The Friends of Reynolds Field Facebook page or the Vote Yes To The Bond Facebook page.
The Facility Project Bond Referendum Vote will take place in the Cochran Gym of Hastings High School Tuesday, Oct. 22 from 7 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
How will you vote? Leave your comments here.
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