Mars Area tables small games application

A request from the Butler County treasurer to streamline the process of applying for small games of chance licenses was tabled Tuesday by Mars Area school board.

County Treasurer Diane Marburger had asked the school board to approve a resolution listing booster groups and organizations to make it easier for her office to issue licenses for the small games of chance.

But solicitor Tom King told board members that as long as the organizations are tax-exempt, they can apply for small games of chance licenses under a different section of the law.

He cautioned that the district should not be involved in the financial affairs of the booster groups, pointing to lawsuits that have been filed over prize disputes.

"We have nothing whatsoever to do with the booster clubs, in terms of either managing them, checking their books, etc., nor do we went to have anything to do with them. If there are any problems, the school district becomes entangled," he said. "I don't think the school ought to be involved."

Mr. King told board members that he will discuss the matter with Ms. Marburger.

In other action, the board approved the high school band trip to the Kentucky Derby.

Band director Tammy Redmond said approximately 70 students and 10 chaperones will make the trip May 1-3 at no cost to the district.

They also approved the district to sponsor a Kids of STEEL team. The Kids of STEEL program is a nutrition and exercise program for elementary school students that is related to the Pittsburgh Marathon.

Resident Tracy Ashbaugh asked the board to consider posting a recording of their meetings online, or broadcasting a podcast during the meetings.

"A lot of people have a lot of interest, but not a lot of time to go to the meetings," she said.