In a recent Elmbrook School District Board of Education meeting, significant discussions centered around the future of the Hillside property, which has been a point of contention among community members. The board is considering a proposal to sell the property, which has been closed as a school for some time. This decision is driven by financial considerations, as maintaining the deteriorating building incurs ongoing costs that could otherwise be allocated to educational resources.

Board members expressed a desire for greater transparency and community involvement in the decision-making process. One member acknowledged the board's shortcomings in communication, admitting that they had not adequately engaged with residents regarding the potential sale. This lack of outreach has led to frustration among community members, many of whom feel uninformed about the implications of the sale and the future of the property.

Residents voiced their concerns during the public comment section, emphasizing the importance of the Hillside property as a community space. Many argued that selling the land to a private entity could lead to undesirable developments that might not align with the community's needs. Suggestions included transforming the site into green space or a community resource rather than allowing it to become a commercial property.

The board discussed the financial implications of maintaining the building versus selling it. One member highlighted that the cost of demolishing the building could reach up to a million dollars, which is not currently budgeted. This financial burden, coupled with the uncertainty of future funding from the state, has made the sale of the property an attractive option for some board members.

Community members urged the board to postpone any decisions until further discussions could take place, advocating for more opportunities to gather public input. They expressed a desire for the board to consider the long-term impact of their decisions on the neighborhood and to explore alternative solutions that would benefit the community as a whole.

As the board prepares to make a decision, the discussions reflect a broader concern about balancing financial responsibilities with the community's needs and values. The outcome of this deliberation will likely have lasting implications for the residents of Elmbrook and the future of the Hillside property.