Pullman board discusses buying 30 acres to expand district landbank

Board members discussed a proposed purchase of 30 acres on Pullman’s west side that would adjoin existing district-owned land and create roughly 90 acres in one parcel.

Justin, the facilities/planning presenter, described the parcel’s advantages: it would provide direct road access and utility proximity to an otherwise landlocked district site, reducing future development costs. He said the seller’s asking price is $20,000 per acre and confirmed capital-projects funds are eligible to buy land. "This would bring us right up to the road right next to utility access," he said, explaining the cost advantages for future school development.

Board members clarified how the district would pay for the purchase. Amanda and other members noted that proceeds from the planned aquatic-center sale are restricted for land purchases and could be used alongside capital-project funds to encumber the parcel. No formal purchase motion or vote was recorded in the transcript; the discussion focused on project feasibility, funding sources and potential long-term uses — a new Sunnyside elementary, future middle or other district needs. Justin also said the district could lease farmland in the near term while holding the property for future use.

Next steps: staff will continue due diligence and financial planning; any formal purchase would return to the board for action and formal vote.