CHERRY TWP — A Moniteau School District resident, who is running for county commissioner, asked the school board Monday night to be mindful of student and staff safety during Marcellus gas well drilling near an elementary school.

Michael Bagdes-Canning said the well would be about a half-mile from Dassa McKinney Elementary School.

Bagdes-Canning, who lives in Cherry Valley where he is a council member, urged the board to put measures in place to protect students and staff from potential diesel emissions, noise and vibration during drilling.

He questioned whether the district has an evacuation plan and monitoring systems for air quality. He asked how students, staff and families would be informed if an evacuation was necessary and what training the staff will receive in connection with the nearby well.

Before the meeting continued, Bagdes-Canning encouraged the school board to address these topics. The board did not respond to Bagdes-Canning's comments during the meeting.

However, following the meeting, district business manager John D'Amore said the district signed a nonsurface gas lease with SWEPI LP in 2012. In all 83.6 acres were leased at $2,957 per acre for a total of $247,248 income for the district. Subsequently, the lease transferred to Rex Energy.

Board action included:

Approval to seek proposals to repair the auditorium ceiling and improve the stadium bleachers and stadium stairs.

Approval for volunteers to use donated materials to realign the throwing area for shot put, discus and javelin. The adjustment will increase safety for track and field events.