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Board discusses next steps after closing Holton and Willow River schools; seeks counsel and community outreach

Hudson School Board · January 27, 2026
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Summary

After closing Holton and Willow River elementaries the district reported unsolicited interest from buyers and discussed options including talking to the attorney, listing with a broker, sealed bids, and limited community input; Town of Saint Joe requested the historic bell be donated.

District administration told the board on Jan. 26 that realtors and potential buyers have begun contacting the district about Holton and Willow River, which the board decided to close at an earlier meeting. "We have not been given any direction at this point, so we don't currently have any buildings for sale," said Nick (district administration). He asked whether the board wanted staff to consult the district attorney, begin listing with a broker, accept sealed or open proposals, or take a dual-path approach.

Board members expressed concern about protecting students and community expectations. Some members favored starting the process while consulting the attorney and broker pricing; others urged caution about public communications that might create false expectations that the district would retain the buildings. One board member recommended outreach to local governments (City of Hudson, Town of Saint Joe, St. Croix County) to notify them of availability. The board also discussed the practical benefits of using a broker to reduce staff time and to coordinate tours outside of school hours.

The board received a written request from the Town of Saint Joe to retain the historic bell from Holton; trustees indicated no objection and directed staff to send a formal response.

Why it matters: Disposition of publicly owned school buildings has fiscal and community implications—sale proceeds affect taxpayers and repurposing decisions often involve municipal partners. Trustees emphasized protecting district resources and following legal processes for public property sales.

Next steps: Administration will consult the district attorney about handling unsolicited offers and legal requirements for public property sales; staff will gather broker pricing and reach out to local governments; the administration will plan community closing events (target date May 31) and prepare communications only after counsel and logistics are clarified.