3/25/14 - The issue of snow removal on tennis courts and whether the current lawn care provider is obligated to remove it came up for debate at Monday nightâs Brighton Board of Education meeting. A few board members, especially Vice President Bill Trombley and Board President Nick Fiani, felt that Environmental Creations, the contractor, should have had all snow removed from tennis courts and other spring sports playing surfaces by March 1st. Fiani suggested that the company and its owner be taken to court for violation of the contract. However, others on the board felt that this has been a most unusual, if not unique, winter and furthermore that the snow has turned to ice and attempts to remove it with heavy equipment might damage the surfaces. A motion to hire a company to remove the snow and ice from the 12 Brighton High School and eight Scranton Middle School tennis courts and deduct the amount from future payments to Environemtal Creations failed on a 3-3 tie vote. Board Member Miles Vieau was absent from the meeting. Several citizens, including BHS soccer players, coaches and teachers spoke in support of owner Jeff Vandemergel, saying he does an excellent job and the problem couldnât be helped because of the severe winter. Superintendent Greg Gray tells WHMI that the contract with Environmental Creations is intentionally vague because of variables such as weather. Gray says heâll meet with the contractor today to discuss the situation but adds that the bottom line is that, considering the costs and dangers associated with trying to remove the crusted snow and ice, they will likely have to wait for the weather to warm up and melt it naturally. He adds that many other districts in Michigan are facing the dilemma of whether to delay the start of outdoor spring sports. (TT)
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