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Adams 12 board approves resolution authorizing condemnation steps for property adjacent to Thornton High School
Summary
The board approved a Resolution of Necessity Dec. 1 authorizing outside counsel to pursue condemnation for land at 9201 Washington Street after unsuccessful purchase negotiations; the action was taken to acquire property needed for Thornton High School expansion.
The Adams 12 Five Star Schools Board of Education voted Dec. 1 to adopt a Resolution of Necessity authorizing outside counsel to pursue condemnation proceedings for property at 9201 Washington Street adjacent to Thornton High School.
Board counsel/staff explained the resolution is a formal step that allows outside counsel to file a petition in condemnation because negotiations to purchase the parcel have not been successful. As explained to the board: "This property is located at 9201 Washington Street adjacent to the current Thornton High School campus and as part of the plans for reconstructing and expanding Thornton High School this property is necessary for that project," staff said, adding earlier purchase attempts had not succeeded.
Why it matters: adopting a resolution of necessity is the formal board action that enables eminent-domain filings under state law when acquisition by negotiation fails and the property is necessary for a public project. Board members were given the resolution in the meeting packet, and staff noted two minor typographical corrections to the document (a conjunction and the spelling of Washington Street) before presentation.
The motion to approve the resolution was moved, seconded and adopted by roll call. Board members recorded 'aye' votes and there was no recorded opposition. Staff identified Alderman Bernstein law firm and outside counsel who would lead the condemnation filing should the board direct them to proceed.
Next steps: if counsel files a condemnation petition, that process would proceed under Colorado eminent-domain procedures; the board did not discuss acquisition price in open session. The board's vote authorizes staff and counsel to take legal steps to pursue acquisition by condemnation if negotiations remain unsuccessful.
