Board opens resolution to bar sale of closed school sites while debating interim uses

Trustees discussed a proposed resolution to designate several closed school properties as public assets and prohibit sale, lease or transfer for private development. The discussion — framed as an effort to respond to community concern — considered both protections against privatization and practical issues about maintenance and interim uses.

The draft resolution circulated during discussion would retain public‑use designation for formerly closed schools (including several sites named in the draft) and explicitly prohibit sale or transfer to private residential developers. Several trustees and speakers said the proposal responds to community distrust after prior property disposition actions and would aim to preserve options for future school use or public benefit.

Trustees disagreed over one provision that would categorically bar staff or teacher housing on surplus sites. Some trustees urged the board to keep the option of staff housing under consideration, citing high regional housing costs and the potential to support district employees; others said earmarking parcels for staff housing can be politically and practically problematic and that community input must drive reuse decisions.

Board members emphasized that keeping properties off the market carries maintenance and liability costs. District staff and trustees proposed interim measures — such as proactive facilities‑use calls to local nonprofit leagues and six‑month MOUs that require user groups to cover maintenance — to reduce deterioration and community safety concerns while the board develops long‑term plans.

The board asked staff to provide a complete inventory of district parcels and cost estimates for maintaining vacant sites, and to return with language that balances community protection, financial feasibility and equitable access. Trustees signaled they will bring a formal resolution back for a future vote after workshop discussions.