An unnamed meeting speaker who identified themself as chairman of Santa Heights University told the Main Street Board on Aug. 13 that university leaders and the Dominican sisters are working to support students, faculty and staff as institutional changes proceed.

"It is our primary concern at this point," the speaker said, describing ongoing "workouts" with other universities and plans to minimize the economic impact on the community. The speaker said stakeholders will be asked for input at a later stage and suggested the possibility of town halls to discuss economic impacts and reuse options.

Why it matters: A significant institutional change at a local university has potential effects on downtown businesses, housing and employment. Board members discussed coordinating broader community conversations about economic impacts.

The speaker said the goal is to "reutilize those assets in such a way that it minimizes the economic impact and, if not, enhances the economic impact of the change that's taking place." They said the sisters who own or oversee related assets are participating in planning efforts.

Board members suggested organizing public meetings to discuss macroeconomic challenges in the community and potential steps to support affected stakeholders. No formal board action or funding decisions were taken at the meeting; the speaker said community engagement would be sought when planning reaches the appropriate stage.