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Board discusses listing historic Russell school building to unlock grants and state tax credits
Summary
District staff proposed seeking Kansas state historic registry listing for the WPA-era Russell school building to access tax credits (state could offer 40% credits on qualifying projects), low-interest loans and grant eligibility; trustees discussed benefits, restrictions, potential higher renovation costs and whether the building is feasible for school use.
District leaders presented a multi-faceted proposal to pursue listing the district’s WPA-era limestone school block on the Kansas state historic registry, arguing that state tax credits, grant eligibility and low-interest loans could reduce renovation costs for long-deferred work.
The presentation recounted the building’s history and condition, noted it remains the district’s only full auditorium and extra gym, and highlighted prior investments such as an upgraded electrical system in 2019. Administration described an estimated fee of roughly $15,000 to retain professional help to prepare registry paperwork and outlined potential benefits: the state program can make 40% of qualifying project costs available as tax credits (which the district would not use directly but could sell), increased eligibility for certain grants, and access to low-interest rehabilitation loans in the 2–4% range.
Board members pressed on constraints and costs. Trustees and administration emphasized that listing triggers state historic-preservation review for qualifying projects and could require more expensive materials or restoration practices for interior features identified as historic. The district described large capital needs beyond registry paperwork — including extensive sanitary plumbing, HVAC and ADA work — and cited prior estimates that sanitary plumbing alone could cost millions. A district presenter summarized: "The pros likely outweigh the cons, but this is not a quick or cheap fix; it requires community engagement and possible outside fundraising."
Trustees discussed whether the district should be the lead on such a project or whether the community and alumni should drive a grassroots campaign. Several trustees said they support preserving the building’s heritage but doubted the district’s capacity to both run schools and lead a long-term historic renovation. Alternatives floated included pursuing registry listing with community partners, selling tax credits to outside investors, or repurposing the building if outside groups can demonstrate a viable plan.
No binding vote to pursue listing was taken; board members asked staff to share presentation materials and to explore community and alumni interest and potential grant writers or project partners before returning with a more detailed plan and cost estimates.
