Board hears new sinkholes and drainage damage at district fields; short‑term repairs made while staff evaluate long‑term drainage options

Facilities staff told the board they discovered new sinkholes and localized collapses on district property, including Burke Estate and damage at Reynolds Field, where buried materials and rising groundwater appear to be factors.

"These were caused by the fact that there must have been trees there many moons ago," a facilities lead said, describing buried stumps and voids that later collapsed as ground water rose. The grounds crew performed immediate repairs to fill holes; the board approved the near‑term expenditures required to make the areas safe. A damaged sewer‑drain grate in a parking lot was also cited and slated for repair.

Board members and administrators discussed a longer‑range approach that could include improved engineered drainage, different subsurface systems and turf/playing‑surface upgrades. Representatives noted past heavy rain events had already required substantial repairs at Reynolds Field in recent seasons and that improved drainage could reduce cancellations and safety hazards. The district has engaged engineers and done a camera inspection of drainage infrastructure; work will continue to define a prioritized plan and cost estimates for board consideration.

Short‑term fixes were authorized to restore safe use of fields and parking areas; administrators said they will return with engineering recommendations for capital or grant‑eligible projects as a next step.