School facility user fees and a soccer coaching appointment dominated the discussion at the June 22, meeting of the Babylon School Board.

Alarmed by larger-than-expected bills for security and custodial services, several representatives from community groups addressed the board and school administrators about the facility use fees and policies. Their concern stems from the school's practice of sending invoices to community groups after the events take place.

"Why can't we get a fee schedule prior to any events?" asked Christine Jansson, a representative from Babylon Village Girl Scouts and Babylon Village Boy Scouts. "We're told the cost is "X" amount going in and then we get a bill for a higher amount."

Jansson explained that for groups like the Boy Scouts that hold multiple fund-raising events throughout the year, such a practice makes it difficult to determine what to charge for an event to ensure that a profit is made. "We need an up-front number. If you don't know it, we need to figure out a better system," said Jansson.

Peter Daly, Ed D, assistant superintendent for business, explained that the district allows community-based groups to use the school facilities at no cost, unless the district has to bring in staff, such as custodians and security personnel. Many facility use requests involve Sundays and hours outside regularly scheduled work hours. In these cases, the district only charges for the additional labor costs, added Daly.

"We are not looking to make money on the backs of the members of the community," said Daly.

Permits ask for intended use and time, and based on past performance, this gives the district an idea of staff needed for a particular event. During the 2008 - 2009 school year, Daly said 309 permits were issued and 49 resulted in fees because of their timing.

Resident Arlene Funk was the first to speak up on behalf of girls' varsity soccer coach Dennis McGovern who, according to Funk, was not offered the coaching position for next year. "No one is more qualified and dedicated to coach our girls than Dennis McGovern," said Funk.

Her sentiments were echoed by Roseanne Frasson, who said the soccer players deserve an explanation as to why McGovern will not be their coach next year. "Thiswas not handled in an honorable way to a man who has given so much," said Frasson.

"At all times [Coach McGovern] treated us like we were the most important people... the soccer program will definitely change if he isn't the coach," said Kelly Woodward, a graduating senior.

Coaching positions are considered casual appointments and are made on a yearly basis, according to Ellen Best-Laimit Ed D, school superintendent. The district's athletic director presents the school board with a list of recommendations. The board then votes on these recommendations.