County Commissioner Tim Boyd said Wednesday that East Ridge High School can replace its crumbling concrete stands with new metal, 835-seat stands for under $125,000.
He said he is still getting figures on how much it would cost to tear down the concrete stands that have been condemned by East Ridge inspectors.
Concerning the funding, Commissioner Boyd said the county schools "should take the lead." He said, "Maintenance of school facilities is their responsibility."
He said he believes that the county and East Ridge would be willing to help the county schools come up with the necessary funding.
Commissioner Boyd, who is in the construction business, said he had gotten three bids on the metal stands. He said one was over $200,000, but the lowest was under $125,000.
He said he had gotten volunteers who will contribute $20,000 worth of work in erecting the new stands.
The stands would include an 8x18-foot press box.
The commissioner said the new stands "would be adequate and not over-stated."
He said that should take care of the immediate problem, but it would not include the coaches' offices, player locker rooms and public restrooms now under the seating in the concrete structure that was condemned.
The commissioner said players could temporarily use the nearby gym for a locker area.
He said East Hamilton, until it gets restrooms constructed, has Porta Potties.