Resident urges Amherst Central School District to reduce high track rental fees

Pete Greighton, a town resident who identified himself during public comment, told the Amherst Central School District Board the district's published building-use rates for the high-school track are prohibitive for local teams and clubs.

"I've never paid more than about $100 for practice," Greighton said, pointing to the policy packet. "But the $500 an hour or $300 an hour depending on profit, nonprofit, that's just way out of line." He said he is not seeking a full waiver but asked for reduced rates or clearer application of the superintendent's authority to lower fees.

Greighton told the board he represents a family-run track club with many district residents and that attempts over the past five years to secure regular access to the track have not produced a resolution. He said he submitted a FOIL request for any rental or lease contracts for the track and turf from the last three years and is still awaiting records.

Board policy cited in Greighton's packet states the district encourages community use of facilities and gives the superintendent discretion to waive or reduce fees when activities benefit the district, students and community. Greighton said he was not asking for a free waiver but that the posted rates are out of market compared with private facilities nearby, which he said charge roughly $100–$150 per hour.

The board did not take action during public comment. Greighton said he would return to future meetings until he receives a satisfactory response and left his contact information for staff follow-up.