Residents and nonprofit leaders at a Granbury Independent School District public-comment session urged the board to support United Way of Hood County’s stewardship of Decker Gym and pushed back on social media criticism of the project.

Charlotte Kirkendall, a district taxpayer and volunteer, thanked the board “for giving United Way of Hood County the privilege of utilizing the Decker Gym facility,” saying the space has been transformed into “a vibrant community asset” that allows nonprofits to share storage, host clothing closets and expand programming for students and families. “From what United Way and its partner agencies have built there, this is education beyond the classroom,” Kirkendall said.

Resident Brett Deason called online allegations about the gym ‘‘conspiracy theories’’ and said the facility had been vacant for years before nonprofits moved in. ‘‘This kind of stuff has got to stop,’’ he said, adding that the work at Decker Gym is helping children with basic needs.

Crystal Moore of United Way of Hood County offered to answer questions and described the organization’s role as hosting the building so partner nonprofits can operate without separate rent costs. Moore listed permanent occupants and frequent users including Christmas for Children, Hood County Children’s Charity, Cub Scouts, 4‑H and Leadership Granbury. She told the board the group has invested in the facility: “The roof over Decker Gym has been completely renewed. We’ve fixed the gym floor. We have painted the gym.”

Board members and residents who toured the site described substantial renovation needs that United Way has been addressing, including areas that were fenced off for safety. One board member said they observed damaged ceiling tiles and restricted areas where asbestos remnants remained; Moore and other speakers said the nonprofit has been repairing and improving those conditions.

When asked how members of the public can see the work, Moore invited people to contact United Way or come for a tour, saying the group is ‘‘completely transparent’’ and welcomes visits.

The board did not take formal action on Decker Gym during the session; the meeting adjourned after public comments.