Galveston council backs community-led ideas for LA Morgan school site; one member abstains

The City Council of Galveston on Feb. 27 adopted a resolution expressing the council’s support for community-led alternative uses for the LA Morgan School site — including a community park, workforce housing and a proposed national Juneteenth museum — while stressing the ultimate decision belongs to the Galveston Independent School District.

The resolution, requested by neighborhood groups, passed after public comment from residents, neighborhood leaders and faith-based representatives. Council approved the measure with one abstention: Councilwoman Rob did not vote, saying the school board should lead the process.

The resolution endorses community engagement and asks the school district to consider alternatives proposed by the public rather than directing a particular outcome. Supporters said the site could both preserve local history and stimulate economic development.

"Juneteenth represents an opportunity for all Galvestonians," said Thomas Singleton, a resident who urged the council to back the museum concept and other community-focused uses. "Your support would help to drive economic opportunities. It'd be an educational resource, and it would enhance and embrace Galveston's cultural heritage and institutions."

Pastor Tim Sykes, who described historical contributions of Dr. Leon Augustus Morgan, urged formal backing of the community’s plan. "We have put together a 34-page, well-articulated, well-written plan," Sykes told the council, saying organizers are pursuing grants and other funding.

Some public commenters and trustees emphasized that the Galveston Independent School District (GISD) controls disposition of the property and that any city support should not financially obligate the city. Elizabeth Beaton, representing neighborhood interests, noted the school district could receive funds if fundraising succeeds: "If the fundraising goes well, the city will receive a gift doubling the size of Ado Park, a good thing for the city, and the school district will get $2,200,000," she said during public comment regarding related property issues.

Council members debated the council’s proper role. Councilmember Finkley said the resolution does not commit city funds and is intended to reflect community interest. "This resolution does not financially bind the city in any way, shape, or form," he said. "When the community comes forward and puts together a plan for the potential use of a surplus property, it behooves us to listen to the community."

Councilwoman Rob said she would abstain, not because she opposed the goals, but because she believed the school board should be allowed to complete its deliberations without the council moving ahead of the board. "I am going to abstain ... I think that we made a big mistake when we went ahead of the school board," she said.

Council discussion repeatedly reiterated that the resolution is advisory: it asks GISD to consider community proposals — including a museum, community center, park or workforce housing — rather than prescribing a particular outcome. Several council members urged organizers to continue developing a business plan and fundraising strategy.

The council vote was recorded as approved, with one abstention by Councilwoman Rob. The resolution directs no city spending and poses no binding commitment; next steps include continued community outreach and consideration by the Galveston ISD trustees, who control sale or disposition of GISD property.

Proponents said they will continue grant work and community outreach and expect to present more detailed plans and financial proposals to GISD and potential public funders in Austin and Washington.

Ending: The council’s action simply records municipal support for community engagement and alternative-use planning; any transfer or sale of the LA Morgan property will require separate action by the Galveston Independent School District and, where relevant, formal funding commitments from third-party funders or state and federal sources.