The Elmbrook School District Board of Education convened on October 29, 2024, to discuss the potential sale of the former Hillside Elementary School property, a topic that has generated significant community interest and concern. The meeting aimed to clarify the status of the sale and address public feedback regarding the process.

The board has been considering the future of the Hillside property for some time, having engaged a broker and conducted various meetings to explore options. A recent offer of $900,000 was made by a buyer intending to establish an adult daycare center on the site. This offer was deemed more favorable than previous ones, prompting the board to deliberate on the sale.

During the meeting, board members discussed a deed restriction that would limit the property's use for educational purposes for ten years. This restriction was amended from an initial proposal that would have made it permanent. The board emphasized that the buyer was aware of this restriction when making their offer.

Public comments highlighted concerns about transparency and communication regarding the sale. Several residents expressed that they were unaware of the sale process and felt that more outreach was needed to inform the community, particularly those living near the property. Residents raised questions about the adequacy of the offer and the implications of the deed restriction, suggesting that the community should have more time to consider the sale before a decision is made.

Board members acknowledged the need for better communication and transparency, noting that the property has been vacant for years and that maintaining it incurs ongoing costs. They argued that selling the property would alleviate financial burdens on the district while providing funds that could be reinvested in educational resources.

The board ultimately decided to postpone the vote on the sale to allow for further public input and discussion, reflecting a commitment to engaging the community in the decision-making process. The outcome of this meeting underscores the balancing act between fiscal responsibility and community involvement in local education matters.