Relating to the sale, lease, or use of an unused or underused school district facility.
Impact
The bill requires the board of trustees of an independent school district to obtain an appraisal report for any facility that is to be sold or leased, ensuring that valuation is current before any transaction. Additionally, for the first 90 days that a facility is put on the market, only offers from educational institutions will be considered, fostering a competitive bidding environment that prioritizes educational interests over general commercial transactions. If no qualifying offers are made in that time frame, the facility can then be offered to the broader public.
Summary
SB2824 aims to establish a framework for the sale, lease, or use of unused or underused school district facilities in Texas. Under this bill, independent school districts are required to offer these facilities to public schools, open-enrollment charter schools, and approved private schools before making them available to the general public. This provision seeks to ensure that educational entities can benefit from available resources, especially in areas where educational opportunities may be limited due to insufficient facilities.
Contention
Points of contention regarding SB2824 may arise from the concerns about the adequacy of the appraisal process and whether it provides a fair market value that benefits the school districts. Some critics might also argue about the stipulation that limits initial offers to educational entities, suggesting it could unintentionally limit financial opportunities for school districts if no qualifying bids are received within the specified period. Stakeholders may debate the effectiveness of this approach in addressing the needs related to the management of school facilities and the potential impacts on community resources.
Relating to a local optional teacher designation system implemented by a school district, a security officer employed by a school district, the basic allotment and guaranteed yield under the public school finance system, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program; making an appropriation.
Relating to requirements for beneficial tax treatment related to a leasehold or other possessory interest in a public facility used to provide affordable housing.
Relating to nonsubstantive additions to, revisions of, and corrections in enacted codes and to the nonsubstantive codification or disposition of various laws omitted from enacted codes.
Relating to instructional material and technology, the adoption of essential knowledge and skills for certain public school foundation curriculum subjects, and the extension of additional state aid to school districts for the provision of certain instructional materials; authorizing a fee.
Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to the health and safety of public school students and active shooter training for certain peace officers.