Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Real Property Reuse topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Superintendent: appraisal ordered and talks underway about reusing Wichita Falls High School
Summary
Wichita Falls ISD superintendent reported tours and early discussions with the city, police department and chamber about repurposing Wichita Falls High School; the district has ordered an appraisal and said any sale or bond would be subject to voter approval.
Superintendent Donnie Lee told the Wichita Falls Independent School District Board of Trustees that district and community leaders have begun exploring reuse options for the old Wichita Falls High School building and that an appraisal has been ordered.
Lee said members of the Wichita Falls Police Department, city council and Chamber of Commerce toured Wichita Falls High School and discussed the possibility of using the site for a new police station while preserving the main portion of the historic building. "We gave them the stipulations: they could not tear down the main portion," Lee said.
The superintendent said staff ordered an appraisal and expect the appraisal process to take about six to seven weeks. He emphasized discussions were preliminary and that if reuse required a bond measure it would be decided by city voters.
Board members and staff noted the property is unusual and that selecting an appraiser with appropriate experience will be important. Trustees discussed whether a local appraiser with community knowledge or a statewide firm should perform the valuation; the board did not vote but directed staff to proceed with the appraisal process.
Lee also reported that premier charter school did not respond by the district deadline to express interest in three district properties (Lamar Elementary, Sam Houston, and Kirby), and that those properties will be listed publicly.
No final decision on sale or reuse was made at the meeting; staff will report back when the appraisal is complete.
