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NY: East Hampton, School Board Debates Ads on Sports Fields

10-Jun-2011  The Patch, East Hampton, NY

A fundraising concept that could bring an infusion of cash to strapped school programs in the East Hampton school district has sparked a heated debate among school board members.

The controversy surrounds a pitch by East Hampton Police Athletic League former president Gary Stanis to allow local businesses to advertise on removable banners displayed during the high school football season.

Advertisers would pay $750 per banner, and the school district would get half that, he said.

“It could add up pretty quickly,” Stanis said.

But board member Stephen Talmage thinks school board would be overstepping its authority in granting permission for businesses to advertise on school property.

“We’re crossing a line,” he said.

If funds are needed, Talmage said the board can generate funding through tax hikes.

“These are billboards,” he said. “Nowhere else in East Hampton are there billboards.”

However, local Little Leagues, which are private enterprises, do allow advertisers to buy field banners.

According to Talmage, it's like a proposal from organizers of the upcoming Music To Know to use the school parking lot during its event in return for cash. The board recently received an email from MTK organizer Chris Jones promising a definite minimum of $10,000 to the district for use of its parking facility and a $10,000 donation to Project MOST. The board has not decide on whether it will accept the offer.

Board member Alison Anderson, however, supports the plan. “Times are really tough now. We have to be a little more creative,” she said.

The PAL would be responsible for soliciting advertising, having the banners made, putting them up, and storing them.

Another concerns revolved around the type of advertising allowed, including ads promoting alcohol or local bars, which the board would not support.

“This is a gray area,” Talmage said, adding ads for bail bondsmen or lingerie shops would not be acceptable.

The board has asked Stanis and athletic director Joe Vas to create guidelines, which will be presented and voted upon at a future meeting.

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