UPDATE: The Saugus Union School District has initiated urgent discussions regarding the future of the now-closed Santa Clarita Elementary School. A pivotal meeting was held last week at Bridgeport Elementary School, with the next gathering scheduled for Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at the same location.
During the special session, district officials presented critical information surrounding the closure of Santa Clarita Elementary. The discussion highlighted significant concerns about seismic safety and the exorbitant costs associated with updating the facility. According to Nick Heinlein, the district’s assistant superintendent of business, rehabilitating the site would cost a staggering $12.5 million. Rebuilding entirely would escalate costs to approximately $25 million, an investment unlikely to be supported by the state.
The governing board must now decide how to proceed with the property. Options presented by Sarine Abrahamian of Orbach Huff and Henderson LLP included selling or leasing the site, which is deemed surplus. For the district to proceed with a sale, it must notify public entities through three successive newspaper publications or direct mail. Interested agencies have 40 to 60 days to respond, after which formal bidding may commence if no offers are received.
Community members expressed strong feelings about the property during public comments. Many advocated for selling the site to the City of Santa Clarita to ensure local control over its future. Patti Rasmussen, a resident and city arts commissioner, noted that the city had shown interest in the property in letters dated August and September. However, Heinlein clarified that these letters were not formal offers and urged residents to encourage the city to submit a legitimate proposal.
If the district opts for a joint use or short-term lease, it could lease the property to educational agencies or nonprofits, but not to private schools. Short-term leases are capped at five years. Alternatively, a joint occupancy lease would allow private entities to utilize the site while the district retains ownership.
The pressing nature of these discussions is underscored by the Community Recreation Act, mandating collaboration between cities and school districts to promote recreational programs.
As the next meeting approaches, the fate of Santa Clarita Elementary School hangs in the balance. Community members and district officials alike are eager for clarity on how this property will shape the future of local education and recreational opportunities.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops. The outcome of this meeting could significantly impact the community’s access to recreational and educational resources.
