Brecksville–Broadview Heights Board of Education members discussed whether to sell, trade or retain the district’s roughly 20‑acre West Mill property during their May 28 meeting at the Brecksville–Broadview Heights Education Center.

The discussion centered on three appraisals performed in 2018, 2021 and 2022 that, the board was told, show roughly $185,000 (about 26%) appreciation across the four‑year span. Board members noted the district’s carrying costs are minimal — the only recurring cost mentioned was a utility/sewage bill under $500 — and that proceeds from any sale would be restricted to the district’s permanent improvement (PI) fund rather than the operating budget.

Board members outlined options available under state law: a public sale to the highest bidder, or a property swap with another public entity. As an example of the swap option they cited an earlier land exchange with the city of Brecksville tied to the district’s new elementary school project. Members also noted the parcel is currently zoned single‑family residential, and that any alternate use (for example, a storage or district facility) would likely require rezoning and approvals from local authorities.

During the exchange, several trustees argued the district should “stay the course” and keep the property as a strategic reserve for potential future needs such as the district’s campus master planning or unforeseen capital repairs; other trustees cautioned that relying on future appreciation carries risk and said proceeds from a sale could fund immediate facility priorities. No motion to sell, exchange or otherwise dispose of the property was made or adopted at the meeting.

The board agreed to keep the item on its radar for future discussion as part of broader facilities and permanent improvement planning.

Ending: The board took no formal action at the May 28 meeting; members asked staff to keep the property and its appraisals in future planning materials and to revisit options if district needs or the local fiscal picture change.