East Jordan District may not party at RSL venue

SANDY — The Real Salt Lake Stadium may be too controversial a site for East Jordan school district's kickoff party, say some East Jordan School Board members.

The district is planning an event in October to announce its new name and logo, as well as celebrate its existence.

It's a time to "unite as one school family on the east side," said board member Paul McCarty, head of the district's name and logo committee.

However, some board members believe the Real stadium site is a bad idea since some people don't support the stadium, and that could deter people from attending the district event.

Other board members are suggesting a neutral site such as an east-side high school chosen through a drawing.

The superintendent says perhaps a local community venue, such as the South Towne Exposition Center or the Sandy Amphitheater, could be an option.

After hefty discussions Tuesday night, board members agreed to send the board's naming committee back to gather more details. The committee plans to report to the board next week its findings on sites, as well as date and monetary details, including grants and donations.

McCarty said the Real stadium idea came out of discussions with Sandy Mayor Tom Dolan. There are four community event days available that would be free or at a minimal cost.

McCarty warned the board it may miss its chance to have the event at the Real stadium if it waits too long to decide.

Board member Sherril Taylor cautioned the board that the Real stadium was — and still is — an upsetting issue for many people.

"Why bring the controversy when we are trying to get such an important thing done on such an important night," Taylor said. "Why even go there ... when some of our patrons may choose not to be involved because of the perception they may have."

Board member Kevin Cromar said people were upset about TRAX light rail when it first came, and they got over it. Cromar said he feels having it at a high school will downplay the event. Further, he asked, board members are striving to collaborate with the cities — so why not choose the Real stadium?

Board member Mont Millerberg suggested getting a preliminary head count for the event before booking a site. "I would hate to show up at the Real stadium with 100 people," he said.