Committee approves site-acquisition policy and adopts disposition policy after questions about sale proceeds

The Committee on Legislation, Rules and Policies approved policy 7240 (site acquisition) and policy 7300 (disposition and inventory of real property) during a work session on Section 7000 policies.

Director Jackson moved to approve policy 7240; the motion passed unanimously by the four members present.

Policy 7300 prompted extended discussion. Director Herndon asked for clarifying language because portions of the draft could be read to imply the district automatically receives proceeds from property sales. Herndon cited past instances in which proceeds were not straightforward — including a previously discussed sale where a district representative negotiated for a portion to remain in the local district — and asked for clearer, firmer language for the public record.

Administration said it would follow up with a legal opinion from the city attorney and noted that the statutes cited in the policy reflect the board’s authority to determine what happens with proceeds. A staff member (Miss Koala) confirmed that past board decisions allocated proceeds at the board’s discretion. Superintendent Brenda Casselli said the administration is working with attorneys and intends to pursue legislative proposals to remove a two‑year moratorium that delays repurposing and sale of buildings, allowing the district to repurpose properties more quickly for community benefit.

Director Herndon then moved to accept administration’s recommendation on policy 7300; the roll call recorded four ayes and the motion passed.

Committee members flagged the need for follow-up: administration will obtain a legal opinion on proceeds and pursue legislative change to the moratorium cited in the policy.