UPDATE: The Saugus Union School District is set to hold an urgent meeting on the future of the closed Santa Clarita Elementary School this Thursday, October 5, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. at Bridgeport Elementary. The community is buzzing with concern over the fate of the property, and this meeting could determine its next steps.
Last week, the district’s governing board convened to discuss the closure of Santa Clarita Elementary, highlighting significant issues including seismic safety and the staggering costs required to bring the facility up to code. According to Nick Heinlein, the district’s assistant superintendent of business, it would cost a minimum of $12.5 million to repair the former school, while a complete rebuild would skyrocket to $25 million. The district faces a tough decision as the state is unlikely to invest such a large amount into a single site.
During the special session, officials reviewed the timeline leading to the school’s closure and discussed various options for the property moving forward. The options include selling or leasing the land, which must first be offered to public entities through a formal notification process. Sarine Abrahamian of Orbach Huff and Henderson LLP explained that the district must publish notices for three consecutive weeks and allow 40 to 60 days for responses from interested agencies.
Community members expressed strong opinions during the meeting, advocating for the property to be sold to the city of Santa Clarita for recreational or historical use. Patti Rasmussen, a local resident and city arts commissioner, cited two letters from the city expressing interest in the site. However, Heinlein clarified that these were not formal purchase offers and urged residents to encourage the city to submit an official bid.
The district is also considering leasing options, which would allow partnerships with other educational entities or businesses, provided they do not disrupt local educational programs or endanger students. A joint use or short-term lease could last up to five years, while a longer-term fee-generating lease could extend up to 35 years.
As discussions continue, the community remains anxious about the future of Santa Clarita Elementary. The upcoming meeting will be pivotal in shaping the direction of this property, and officials are keen to hear from residents. The outcome could significantly impact local educational and recreational opportunities.
Stay tuned as this story develops. Residents are encouraged to attend the meeting and voice their opinions on the future of Santa Clarita Elementary.
