The School Board of Manatee County on Nov. 10 voted 5–0 to authorize district staff to begin negotiations with the Police Athletic League (Powell) on a partnership to create a Powell Community Center adjacent to Rogers Elementary.

Supporters, including Mayor Brown and Powell leaders, described the center as a multiuse hub combining athletics, adult education, early‑learning supports and community services. Carl Reynolds, an attorney representing Powell, said the plan builds on long‑standing local programs and “there's a once in a lifetime opportunity” to combine private, municipal and nonprofit resources. Jason Bartz of NDC Construction described the concept as early, flexible design with a first‑floor gym housing three full‑size basketball courts, multipurpose rooms, concession areas and an outdoor athletic field; second‑floor offices and an open‑air balcony were shown in concept renderings. Project partners said Powell would run day‑to‑day operations and that staff do not expect the district to take on routine operating obligations.

Board members who supported the motion framed it as a neighborhood investment. Board Member Keating said the center would “revitalize this whole area” and serve as “an investment, not so much a burden of a cost” because it would provide feeder programs, GED and ESOL opportunities and local access for families. Superintendent Breslin and district staff said they have been meeting with partners and would involve district attorneys in drafting agreements.

Some members raised financial and legal cautions. Board Member Sprague disputed Mayor Brown’s characterization of Rogers Elementary as having been “failing since day 1,” and stressed the district’s constrained finances after recent revenue uncertainties; she urged clear legal delineation of property use and partner responsibilities before committing funds. The board agreed legal counsel and staff would negotiate terms and report back.

The motion to begin negotiations was made, seconded and approved 5–0 (motion and vote recorded at SEG 1728–1736 and SEG 2034–2037). The presenters estimated an early design phase now and a hoped‑for full project completion “by sometime third quarter ’28” with construction start targeted in the second–third quarter of next year, though exact financing and timelines remain to be finalized by the negotiating teams.

What happens next: staff and attorneys will open formal negotiations with Powell and partner entities; the board directed staff to return with draft terms for further board consideration and public review.