Habitat for Humanity urges Stokes County commissioners to meet before Pine Hall school sale

Katie Tender, an Executive Committee member of Habitat for Humanity of Stokes County, told the Board of Commissioners she would like a formal chance to discuss the Pine Hall school property before the county proceeds. "As the local expert on affordable homes in Stokes County, Habitat would appreciate your consideration to hear from us before you make any formal decision on how to move forward with your purchase option on the property," she said.

Resident Jason Duncan said the Pine Hall community feels out of the loop and requested town‑hall–style meetings in the community rather than at the commissioners' dais. "I wish we knew what was going on in Pine Hall," Duncan said, pressing the board to meet locally and to consider infrastructure limits such as percolation ("perk") and water/sewer availability before any redevelopment is planned. Commissioners and staff responded that the school board controls disposition, that an appraisal was underway, and that state statutes set procedures and fair‑market requirements.

Commissioners stressed community engagement and due diligence. One commissioner said the Francisco school precedent involved year‑long community meetings and state coordination to meet a community outcome while complying with statutory requirements. Staff and counsel noted the school board has not yet formally offered the property at an agreed price to the county; if the county declines a negotiated price, the board may dispose of the property under statutory procedures.