(KNZA)--The Hiawatha School Board has rejected a proposed lease agreement for use of the new softball field at Noble Park.

During Monday night’s meeting, representatives from the Hiawatha Baseball and Softball Club presented two options for district use of the facility.

The first proposal called for a two-year agreement, with the district contributing $30,000 in both 2026 and 2027, followed by renegotiation. The second option outlined a five-year lease at $25,000 annually, also subject to renegotiation at the end of the term.

After extended discussion, board member Ryan Patton moved to approve the two-year option. The motion failed in a 3–4 vote. Supporting the motion were Patton, Griff Howard, and Phil Roberts. Voting against were Board President Roni Tietgens, along with Ian Schuetz, Mitch Brown, and Brooklyn Schuetz.

Following that vote, Ian Schuetz proposed a one-year lease at $13,000, but the motion did not advance after club representatives declined the offer.