UPDATE: The Saugus Union School District is holding an urgent meeting on October 5, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the future of the closed Santa Clarita Elementary School. This meeting comes on the heels of a previous session where officials outlined the dire financial implications of the school’s closure, citing $12.5 million in necessary repairs and up to $25 million for a full rebuild.
During last week’s meeting at Bridgeport Elementary School, district leaders reviewed critical issues including seismic safety and the high costs associated with bringing the facility up to code. The assistant superintendent, Nick Heinlein, emphasized that the state is unlikely to invest such a substantial amount into a single site, leaving the district to explore options for the property.
The governing board must decide how to proceed with the now-surplus property. Possible options include selling or leasing it to public entities, as outlined by Sarine Abrahamian from Orbach Huff and Henderson LLP. If the district opts for a sale or long-term lease, they must notify public entities via newspaper publication for three consecutive weeks. Interested agencies will have 40 to 60 days to respond before the process may advance to formal public bidding.
Community members expressed their concerns during the meeting, with many 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, noted that the city had previously shown interest, with letters dated in August and September. However, Heinlein clarified that these were not purchase offer letters. He urged residents to encourage city officials to submit a formal offer to expedite the process.
The district is also considering a joint use lease, which would allow leasing to various educational and government entities, provided they do not disrupt local educational programs. A joint occupancy lease could also be arranged with private firms while maintaining district ownership.
As the clock ticks, community members are left anxiously awaiting the decisions from the governing board. The fate of the Santa Clarita Elementary property is not just about real estate; it impacts local history and potential community development. The upcoming meeting promises to be a pivotal moment in determining the future of this important site.
Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops.
