Neighbors, city official back workforce-housing plan for Old Slade property

A string of neighbors and local leaders urged the Albany County School District #1 board to pursue workforce housing for the Old Slade school site and to seek long-term partnerships rather than an outright sale to the highest bidder.

"There's no greater obstacle to community well-being than not having decent housing," said John Freeman, a local philanthropist and long-time community supporter, who urged formal negotiations with a nonprofit and suggested the district secure long-term compensation while guaranteeing some housing spaces for teachers and staff.

Lisonbee Grenant, who said she lives one block from Old Slade, told trustees there is "widespread public support" in the neighborhood for a workforce-housing approach. "Sold outright to the highest bidder may not really be the economic model that would help our teachers be able to live in the district they teach in," Grenant said.

Several neighbors — Ken Kramer, Carol Bilborough and Michelle Visser — spoke in favor of thoughtfully sited, affordable workforce housing, saying it could aid staff recruitment and retention and serve as a model for other communities.

Laramie City Councilor William Bowling also addressed the board, urging it to seek partnerships with the city, the chamber, the hospital and WyoTech and to consider the project a long-term investment in community sustainability.

Speakers said discussions are already underway with local stakeholders, including hospital administrators and community business leaders. No formal proposal was presented at the meeting; speakers asked the board to continue conversations and negotiations.

The public comment period closed without immediate board action on the site.