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Board discusses exploring workforce housing on surplus school sites; partnership model proposed
Summary
Board members discussed using schools identified in the long-range plan (Pickett, Bessie Ellison cited) as potential sites for workforce housing, suggested partnering with the Chamber and private developer Michael Grube, and asked staff to convene stakeholders to explore feasibility and funding options.
Board members raised workforce housing as a long-range planning priority and discussed exploring repurposing selected school properties for affordable housing targeted to district staff and the broader community.
A board member said Pickett and Bessie Ellison could be suitable sites under the district's long-range plan. Staff suggested the district act as a champion and convene partners but not lead or fully fund a redevelopment. The board discussed coordinating with the Chamber of Commerce and a local developer (named during the meeting as Michael Grube) who is already working on housing projects and would know available programs and tax-credit structures.
Staff noted housing projects often take years and require city and county support and named potential partners: the chamber, housing developers and housing-development finance entities. A board member proposed using workforce housing as a recruitment/retention benefit for new teachers by ensuring availability of affordable units near schools. The board requested staff place the topic on an upcoming community-alliance agenda to gauge interest and gather stakeholders.
No formal district commitment or funding was approved at the work session; board members emphasized partnership and further exploratory work.
