Lehi School Board seeks voter approval for land lease to reduce operational costs

The HUSD Virtual Governing Board Meeting held on May 30, 2025, focused on a significant proposal that could reshape the district's financial landscape. The board discussed the potential sale, lease, or exchange of district-owned land, a move aimed at alleviating the financial burden of existing lease payments and redirecting funds towards educational resources.

During the meeting, board members emphasized the necessity of obtaining voter approval for any land transactions. This approval would grant the board the authority to make future decisions regarding the property, providing flexibility to act when market conditions are favorable. The discussion highlighted that while the authority to sell or exchange land is permanent, the authority to lease would expire after 20 years, ensuring that the district retains control over its assets.

CFO Tyler Gill pointed out that the district currently faces substantial lease payments totaling $3.5 million annually. By leasing out vacant land, the district could generate additional revenue, which could then be reinvested into classrooms, potentially increasing teacher salaries and enhancing educational programs. This strategy aims to reduce the financial strain on the district while maximizing the use of its resources.

Concerns were raised about the district's capacity to manage leased properties effectively. Board members acknowledged that the district lacks real estate management expertise and may need to hire qualified staff to oversee any leasing arrangements. This aspect of the discussion underscored the importance of careful planning and resource allocation to ensure that the district can manage its properties without incurring additional costs.

In conclusion, the board's discussions reflect a proactive approach to addressing financial challenges within the district. By seeking voter approval for land transactions, HUSD aims to create new revenue streams that could significantly benefit local schools and students. The next steps will involve preparing for the upcoming vote in November, which will determine the future direction of the district's property management strategy.