Richland County's Campus Reconfiguration Committee convened on September 24, 2025, to discuss significant updates regarding the assessment and repurposing of specialized items from campus buildings. The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to clear out and repurpose various items, including taxidermy, microscopes, and kitchen equipment, which will be redistributed to local organizations and the community theater group.

The committee reported that the community theater has taken responsibility for clearing out costumes and other materials, with plans to integrate usable items into their productions. Additionally, discussions centered around the disposal of surplus items, including old desks and books, as the campus prepares for winter and potential building closures.

A key focus of the meeting was the update on the UW redevelopment grant application. The committee aims to submit the application by the end of the week, ensuring that they utilize the available budget effectively while considering future demolition of buildings, including the library and classroom structures. The committee is also exploring the possibility of demolishing the science building, which has been deemed economically unfeasible to convert for continued use.

The committee emphasized the importance of defining campus property boundaries to facilitate future redevelopment. They discussed the need for a survey to delineate land for Simon's and ensure that recreational trails and sports facilities are preserved. The potential for an access road connecting the high school to Simon's was also considered, which could enhance emergency access and community connectivity.

As the meeting concluded, the committee acknowledged the urgency of moving forward with demolition plans and the need to secure bids for the work. They expressed a commitment to ensuring that the process is efficient and cost-effective, with a focus on safely managing the removal of hazardous materials.

Overall, the discussions underscored the committee's proactive approach to campus reconfiguration, aiming to revitalize the area while addressing community needs and preserving valuable resources. The next steps will involve finalizing the grant application and moving forward with the demolition process as winter approaches.