The trustees approved a resolution to declare a portion of the former Patterson Mill property off 10th Street as surplus.

Board member Mike Williams voted against it.

(Photos of the plans as well as the retirement ceremony may be found at the school system's website)

The money used from the sale would be designated to build six tennis courts, construct a track and football practice field on the former Patterson site, and build a soccer complex behind Belmont Elementary.

"If all goes as planned we could be using some of these facilities next school year,” said School Superintendent Dennis Sawyer.

The estimated cost of the athletic improvements is $4.5 million.

In other business, Facilities Director Robbie Clements informed the board the district’s new activity buses would be in service within a few weeks. Roof repairs are also being planned at Roanoke Rapids High School along with walkway improvements at Manning Elementary.

Board Chairman Jay Carlisle and Superintendent Dr. Dennis Sawyer also recognized retirees Daniel and Theresa Hinnant and Andy Kennedy and thanked them for their service to the students of Roanoke Rapids.