2023 09 19 City Council Packet

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OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER

September 18, 2023

To: City Council:

This memo outlines the New Business item of overseeing the old schools including Ingleside, North City,
and Westside. Highlights follow:

Tours were done Wednesday, Sept 13, 2023

Deeds were recorded on Thursday, Sept 14, 2023, to transfer schools to City of Athens
Utilities changed to City of Athens on Friday, Sept 15, 2023

We have included the three schools in our insurance coverage through Public Entity Partners
We are having buildings evaluated by Public Entity Partners to determine value of buildings
We are arranging two additional commercial appraisals for the buildings

The above steps are imperative as the Council methodically evaluates whether it is in the City’s
interest to retain, lease, or sell the buildings

Portable classroom/Ingleside is in poor condition; working to sell it as surplus property
Fire Department is taking care of fire alarm and security monitors

Police, Fire, Community Development, Parks and Recreation, and Public Works are all
coordinating to consistently monitor security of these buildings

Building Inspectors are reviewing roofs

Building Inspectors are reviewing outdoor lighting at Ingleside and Westside

Parks and Recreation staff is inspecting all three playgrounds /Westside rotted bench/Westside
mulch replenishment to fill holes on playground; monitoring trash around buildings
Contractor set up to mow properties and trim bushes and weeds

As we get further down the road, we will evaluate surplus and plan removal of all remaining
furniture and equipment left by school system and provide Council a more detailed plan

The use of the school buildings by outside organizations will be contingent on ensuring sites are
safe and based on the City’s decision to retain, lease or sell the buildings

Any individual or organization with potential interest in using the facilities needs to submit
written request to the city manager for review and approval by Council

As we progress in this process, public notice will be provided to maintain fair and equitable
opportunities for all

We will keep you updated as we navigate this process.