Committee discusses temporary YMCA lease for Norton parking; no dollar amount approved

Committee members discussed an arrangement with the YMCA to use its parking lot temporarily while Norton Elementary demolition and construction proceed, but no formal lease or funding was approved at the meeting.

Dr. Jeff Solon and other committee members said YMCA leadership is amenable to cooperating and that YMCA renovations mean their lot likely will not be in full use when the district needs parking. Staff said they asked Jeff to draft a lease template for the committee and will bring a draft back for consideration. Committee members described the arrangement as a potential “win‑win” because it could eliminate the need to shuttle students and avoid the expense of building a temporary lot.

Participants noted timing and the expected construction schedule for Norton: demolition is targeted for completion in November 2026 and the temporary parking need is anticipated for the 2026 school year start (September through at least November, possibly into December) while the new parking lot is finished. No rental fee or other financial terms were presented; staff said those details still must be negotiated with the YMCA and then returned to the committee for review.

Committee members suggested light vehicles (golf cart) or short shuttles might be used on days when bulky items must be moved between sites, but the prevailing view was that a YMCA lot within walking distance would eliminate regular shuttle needs. The committee asked staff to pursue a draft lease, determine costs if any, and report back to the building committee for formal authorization if a deal is proposed.