SOCSD Unveils Key Details on Ballot Proposal to Sell Big Park School

The Sedona-Oak Creek School District Governing Board convened on Monday, September 23, at Big Park Community School Auditorium to address community concerns regarding a proposal for the sale of district property during the upcoming November ballot.

Superintendent Tom Swaninger acknowledged the community’s strong emotional ties to the property. “It’s not just a 20-acre lot for residents; it holds significant meaning,” he stated. This sentiment underlines the careful approach the district is adopting.

During the meeting, board members addressed questions submitted by attendees after introductory remarks from district administrators. Swaninger emphasized the urgency behind the district’s request. “We’re looking to avoid future bond requests while addressing capital needs, aging campuses, and security,” he elaborated, suggesting that proceeds from the sale could alleviate financial pressures.

Despite the potential sale, officials clarified that the district has not committed to selling the property even if approval is obtained. “We could potentially hold the land for decades,” Swaninger remarked, hinting at a cautious stance on the matter.

Concerns regarding the condition of facilities were highlighted by Governing Board Vice President Lauren Robinson. She posed a stark dilemma: if the sale is denied, the district could face hard choices about budget cuts or facility closures, putting educational opportunities at risk.

Attendees also inquired about the financial implications of maintaining Big Park Community School, with Finance Director Stacy Saravo reporting annual costs near $100,000. This figure includes utility expenses amounting to roughly $63,000 and costs associated with groundskeeping.

The financial yield of leasing the property remains unclear, though some leases were noted, including a local satellite campus and the Sedona Public Library. Philanthropist Basil Maher expressed interest in the property should it become available for private purchase.

The Verde Valley Regional Economic Organization has explored transforming the site into a special taxing district, while Swaninger indicated openness to various proposals regarding its future.

“Any proceeds from a potential sale would be allocated to a school plant fund,” Saravo explained, emphasizing restrictions that prevent using these funds for daily operational costs.

Board President Randy Hawley projected that the student body at West Sedona School could significantly grow without exceeding current capacity, although he noted a decline in school-age children in the Village of Oak Creek.

In July, the district had approved a non-binding letter of intent for Yavapai County to purchase the campus. However, that proposal did not advance, leaving the school board considering other options. Hawley declared that proposal “dead,” attributing the inaction to a lack of interest from county officials.

Controversy stirred during the meeting when former Yavapai County District 3 Supervisor Donna Michaels interjected while board members spoke. After her primary defeat, she has not sought to follow through on her earlier proposal.

“We have to move on,” Hawley stated firmly, reiterating the need for the district to focus on current challenges.

The district has not yet announced plans for further public meetings concerning the proposed sale, but another Q&A session is scheduled for October 9.

The impending question regarding the sale will be included at the end of the general election ballot on November 5.