INGLEWOOD, Calif. (2UG) – The Inglewood Unified School District’s Asset Management Advisory Committee received the districts draft findings and recommendations for the closed school site in Inglewood’s Morningside Park neighborhood.
“The District still faces threats to its solvency and current data indicates the operational District school sites will require $113 million in basic repairs over the next five years.”
In November 2020, Inglewood voters approved a $240 million school bond which provides double the amount needed to make all repairs cited by the district.
Related: Inglewood voters approve school bond measure for $240 million
“Warren Lane is no longer operating as an active school site but continues to require the District to expend resources to maintain the property.”
Which is why the voters pledged $240 million towards the continued upkeep to schools within Inglewood Unified School District.
Related: Inglewood Unified school bond appears coordinated with City Hall and Parent School PTA
The district scheduled seven public meetings to present findings and recommendations to the public of which two have been cancelled. The district has failed to provide meeting minutes for the public to follow what is going on in the meetings, when they do take place.
While campaigning for state assembly, Tina McKinnor marched alongside Morningside Park residents and parents to save Warren Lane from closing. She also spoke during a rally outside of district offices on allegations the district was not following the procedures when it came to keeping the public informed.
“Today I am here as a volunteer for the community and you’re upset because your voices weren’t heard,” said McKinnor. She explained the district didn’t follow school closure guidelines when the decision was made.
“There was no quorum to hold the meeting when the closure was decided, but I will stand with you to make sure your voices are heard, I’m not your assembly member yet, but I will be after June 7,” said McKinnor. She promised to keep “tracking” the issue as she did when she worked under the two previous assembly members as the district was being taken over.
“This is not the only school they plan on closing, and when they do they have to form another one of these committees, and we will keep their feet to the fire,” she said.
The Aug. 8 report does NOT disclose the valuation of the property located in one of the wealthiest areas of Inglewood where homes continue to hit the market in excess of $750k.
“Costs to maintain the property are a financial burden to the District.”
How is it a burden when Inglewood voters pledged $240 million in bonds with bond revenue going to fund upgrades to classrooms, technology, vocational education, facilities and equipment, repairs to roofs, plumbing, security, fire safety, drinking water, and removal of asbestos, lead paint and mold?
The district provided the Asset Management Advisory Committee a wide range of sample recommendations on what to do with the property which includes: declaring it surplus property, disposing of it through either a lease, sale or exchange.
A Morningside Park resident attended the meeting and shared their thoughts with 2UrbanGirls.
“Something special happened today. Community members came together around an issue and a common interest. It was beautiful to see and hear impassioned sentiments around our neighborhood and around the cause of education, children, and the quality of life of our community.
And special because it was exceptional, yet everyday people…your neighbors. Individuals that had a heart to care for and the impetus to stand up for what they believed in and wanted to see.
It’s not just about Warren Lane (Daniel Freeman) and it’s not just about the city of Inglewood, although decisions are being made in our name without engagement, nor consideration of our opinions, or even expressing any genuine care or concern about what we think. That’s bad policy, because there’s a wealth of social capital in the wisdom, knowledge, and collective experience of our community.
Yet, it’s even broader than that, I think we’re at an inflection point. The world is quickly changing; technology’s impacts (good and bad), who controls the information (media, messaging), politics, race, religion, the environment, war. At the end of the day, it’s about whether we are willing to stand up for what we believe is right, considering all sides of the issue or conversely, whether we are willing to let other forces dictate. Our position at this time is unique. During Superbowl LVII, the world’s eyes were on our city, with high-profile concerts, other events, and hosting the Opening Ceremony of the upcoming 2028 Olympics, we will continue to be in view of the world. But what about us? We were Champions before all of these marquee developments, entertainment and sports venues and will remain so.
It seems to me that what this group of people demonstrated today through their commitment to a cause and with their resolve to stand up for what they believe in, is a model for the world today. Particularly for historically disenfranchised communities. Not going along to get along but standing up for what is right and fighting the good fight…and why not start in our community, the place where our life happens. I pray many more people have the courage and heart to join us.
Read the full draft report here.
1 Comment
Please watch the video …knowing your property taxes were and will continue to be impacted what you hear will probably make you want to react!
How can the closed school be a burden? Consider there are no salaries to pay .NOT TEACHERS, NOT GROUNDSKEEPERS, NOT STAFF .
So where is the BURDEN please don’t try to tell us it is watering the football field we know there isn’t one.