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Martinez Unified to explore workforce-housing options on underused district property
Summary
Superintendent presented a non-binding resolution directing staff to explore using underutilized district property for workforce housing or other revenue-generating uses and to consider applying to a CSBA cohort; board members sought timeline and deliverables and the item will return for action in two weeks.
Martinez Unified Superintendent Helen Rossi brought forward an informational proposal asking the board to direct staff to explore options for underutilized district property, including workforce housing, community centers or revenue-generating uses that could support the general fund.
Rossi said the idea grew from a CSBA (California School Boards Association) workforce-housing cohort and related webinars. "I’m desperately looking for ways to increase general fund revenue," Rossi said, noting that repurposing underutilized properties could produce recurring income instead of one-time proceeds from a sale. The superintendent described next steps — applying for a CSBA cohort, surveying staff and community needs, and coordinating with the city as appropriate.
Board members and guests asked procedural questions about what form the housing might take, how a cohort would be staffed and whether the board should set interim deliverables. One board member suggested asking staff to return with an update in January; Rossi said she could instead provide a status update in a few months. A public commenter raised a claim about state control: one attendee warned that the state superintendent or governor could try to take control of unused district properties, arguing that a local plan would help preserve local authority.
Why this matters: The proposal is exploratory but could affect long-term district finances, property use, staffing and community relationships. The district owns multiple underutilized parcels that might be suitable for pilot projects, and the CSBA cohort includes technical assistance and a requirement to assemble a four-person team if selected.
What’s next: The board did not vote on the item; Rossi will return with more specific recommendations and potential next steps at a future meeting, and the board discussed asking for interim updates.
