Resident urges broader public input on Landmark School’s future as district prepares to close site

Nancy Pike, a McHenry resident and former Landmark School chair, told the Board of Education on Jan. 21 that the district should not treat Landmark School as simple surplus property after it ceases to operate this year and urged formation of a community committee to explore reuse.

"Considering it only as surplus property in that decision could be a mistake that impacts McHenry's identity," Pike told board members during the public‑comment period. She urged inclusion of stakeholder groups such as the Chamber of Commerce, the Landmark Commission, the district PTO and city planners to broaden public buy‑in.

Pike said she made copies of a written letter to the board. She described her credentials in McHenry civic life — service as the first Landmark chairman, 31 years leading the McHenry County Historical Society, and 13 years on the county planning commission — and said those experiences shaped her view that the building is a "nonrenewable community resource" deserving extra efforts to maintain continued use.

Pike asked the board to "use the coming months to broaden the use of public input by forming a community committee" and said such a process would likely yield greater public acceptance than conducting a sale "behind closed doors." She closed by saying the idea would not cost the district money and that she would leave copies of her letter with board members.

Her remarks took place during the meeting’s public-comment period; the board did not take immediate action on Landmark School disposition during the Jan. 21 session.