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2 <br /> include the creation of a new park or the development of affordable housing. The timing of the <br /> consolidation was contingent upon voter approval of a public-school bond referendum in November of <br /> 2024, and then would be implemented at least four or five years after that approval. Decisions regarding <br /> the repurposing of the site were also several years into the future. <br /> The floor was then opened up for comments and discussion.The following comments were expressed by <br /> the group: <br /> - Members of this group stated that they were fine with the overall plan of consolidation. <br /> - However,the former Central High School property was probably historic and is likely a candidate <br /> for historic preservation. Had anyone contacted Peter Sandbeck, the Orange County Cultural <br /> Resources Coordinator regarding this property? <br /> - Regardless of how the site is re-purposed, every effort should be made to salvage and re-use as <br /> much of the existing facilities as possible due to the historical significance to the community. <br /> - Affordable Housing, a Business Incubator and a Teen Center were suggested by the group as <br /> possible uses for the site. <br /> - Save the exterior shell, retrofit the insides of the buildings. Save the stand-alone cafeteria. <br /> - The school property should actually be considered a campus composed of several buildings. It <br /> could become a cultural center, sponsoring social activities, and especially for use as a teen <br /> center. Other uses could include a meeting space and art galleries. <br /> - It was suggested that a study group should be created to look at what other communities have <br /> undertaken to re-purpose old school facilities. The idea was to look at best practices to help <br /> inform a decision on how the property is re-purposed. <br /> - As this facility represents a bitter history of segregation, efforts should be made to recognize and <br /> preserve this heritage. <br /> - One member recalled that this facility was once the hub of social activities for the community. <br /> - The facility could also be utilized for tutoring space. <br /> - Perhaps there is historic preservation money that could be utilized to renovate the facility,there <br /> is a precedent to saving old historic schools. <br /> - The Chair of the group,Thomas Watson, said he was receptive to speaking with or meeting with <br /> the Board of County Commissioners to express the concerns of the group. <br /> - Steven Arndt mentioned that he would be creating a memorandum that captures the thoughts <br /> of the group and provide it as an information item to an upcoming Boad of County <br /> Commissioner meeting. <br /> - Steven Arndt also mentioned that citizens are able to sign up to speak for three minutes about <br /> any subject at any scheduled Board of County Commissioner business meeting. <br /> In summary,the group strongly felt that the facility should be saved and re-purposed in a way that <br /> supports the community. Recognition of the historical context and significance of the site should be <br /> factored into any re-use efforts. <br /> 2 <br />