During a recent government meeting, tensions rose as members of the Montebello community expressed their dissatisfaction with changes made to a soccer contract by the Alaska South School District. A representative from the community, addressing the board, highlighted that an agreement reached in September 2022 limited soccer activities at Monte Bay Elementary School to weekends from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. However, as of January 2024, the contract was altered without prior notice, allowing soccer to be played daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with instances of extended hours.

The community member criticized Mister Abbasi, a key figure in the school district, for failing to engage with residents regarding the new contract, which was now with the Monterey Soccer League. The representative emphasized that Abbasi's lack of communication and disregard for community concerns demonstrated a troubling absence of collaboration and respect. The community has been vocal about their grievances over the past two years, seeking a more inclusive approach to decisions affecting their neighborhood.

In contrast, Alex Reynoso, the principal architect for various school projects, took the opportunity to express gratitude to the board for their continued partnership over the past decade. His remarks highlighted a positive relationship between the district and local businesses, underscoring the importance of community collaboration in educational development.

The meeting showcased a stark divide between the community's frustrations over perceived neglect and the district's ongoing efforts to foster partnerships, reflecting the complexities of local governance and community engagement.