Two separate governmental agencies working together on a project as large as the joint gymnasium is unusual, but not for the City of Gonzales and the Gonzales Unified School District.

The two groups got together last Monday in the Gonzales City Council Chambers to share ideas and to begin thinking about naming the building.

The school board didn’t have any choices to share with the council members at the time of the meeting.

“I thank the leadership of the school board and school district staff for getting this together so fast,” Council member Matt Gourley said of the near completion of the gym. “It means a lot to me as a council member that we all share in the piece of the pie.”

He also said he would like to leave the decision of naming the building up to the school board. Mayor Maria Orozco said she would like to get the community involved in the naming of the building.

“I don’t think there is any pressure to name the building before the grand opening,” School Superintendent Liz Modena said.

Modena added that the school board would discuss it at their next meeting.

“The joint use of the gym looks good, we only have the details to work out. The rules, once we get them down will be posted,” said Director of Support Services and Facilities Duane Wolgamott.

City Manager Rene Mendez agreed that the use of the gym and times of its use would be worked out together.

Attorney for D’Arrigo Bros. Brian Finnegan thanked the two institutions for their ability to sit down and work out the use of the facilities. “You are a good example,” he told them.

He also asked the city staff about the safety of the Fifth Street overpass, and asked about a traffic light at that location.

The joint use project began a few years ago and even through the financial situation facing California and other states, Gonzales city and schools forged on with the effort. Proof that two governmental agencies can work together will be seen when the doors are officially opened in a few weeks. The date of the grand opening has not yet been set.

According to Wolgamott, the staff would be sealing the floors and when they are dry, the opening would take place.

Mayor Orozco brought a transportation issue regarding bus service to Fairview Middle and Gonzales High School students who live within the city limits. Those students living within the city limits on the east side of Hwy. 101 would continue receiving transportation to those students who pay their donation for the school year 2010-2011.

For the complete article see the 07-14-2010 issue.

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