March 29, 2019
 

Trying to understand Edgewood athletic field debate

Neil Heinen | Watch the video at Channel 3000 WISC TV

MADISON, Wis - We’ve not taken a position on the desire by Edgewood High School to expand its outdoor athletic field on Monroe Street.

We’ve been trying to keep an open mind as school officials and neighborhood residents opposed to the expansion plans try to work things out. But boy, Edgewood sure isn’t making it easy.

We were not aware the city had told the school months ago it could not play formal games on the field without changing the school’s Master Plan. Well, apparently there was a soccer game played on the field earlier this week and the city issued a notice of violation to school officials.

There’s no fine connected. And we understand school officials are receiving legal advice that differs from the city’s interpretation of what’s allowed. But at a time when good faith efforts to work with neighbors is awfully important, that sure seems like a strange way to show good faith.

Again, our minds are open. But this doesn’t help.