Saugus Union School District to Discuss Housing Deal for Former Elementary Site

The Saugus Union School District’s governing board is poised to evaluate negotiations with a housing development firm regarding the former Santa Clarita Elementary School property. The closed-session meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, with board members set to discuss the proposed price and payment terms put forth by Marc Homes LLC for the site located at 27177 Seco Canyon Road.

Marc Homes, a company with over 20 years of experience in the industry, emphasizes its commitment to enhancing the lives of homeowners, according to its website. During a brief phone conversation on Tuesday evening, board member Christopher Trunkey confirmed that this meeting would mark the first review of the housing development proposal by the governing board. Other board members and district officials were unavailable for comment prior to publication.

Community Concerns and Future Options

Over recent months, the governing board has held public meetings to discuss potential futures for the closed school site, which ceased operations in 2023. Various options have been considered, including property sale, long-term leases, short-term leases, and a change of use for the property. Notably, the city of Santa Clarita has expressed interest in acquiring the site.

Community feedback has been significant, with many residents voicing their opposition to converting the former educational facility into housing. The governing board has acknowledged these concerns and stated that they will be a priority in the decision-making process moving forward.

The next open-session meeting regarding the property’s future is scheduled for January 28, 2024. Although the board will not discuss the negotiations publicly after the closed session on Wednesday, any actions taken will be reported to the public. Prior to entering the closed session, a public comment period is set to be held, allowing community members to share their thoughts.

The meeting will commence at 5:30 p.m. at the district office, located at 24930 Avenue Stanford, Valencia, California. As the governing board navigates these negotiations, the outcome will significantly impact the future of the Santa Clarita Elementary School property and the surrounding community’s aspirations.