Everett officials face backlash over $15M plan for dilapidated old high school

During the Everett City Council meeting on February 26, 2024, significant concerns were raised regarding the condition of the old high school and the implications of proposed funding for its renovation. The discussion highlighted the deteriorating state of the building, which has been described as a "teardown." Key issues included severe electrical problems, water damage, and the presence of hazardous materials such as lead and mold. These conditions have raised alarms, especially since preschoolers have been placed in the building despite its unsafe environment.

One speaker emphasized the financial burden associated with maintaining the old high school, noting that the city is spending approximately $14,000 monthly on a temporary boiler and facing additional costs related to ongoing repairs. The speaker criticized the decision to allocate over $11 million for renovations to a building deemed structurally unsound while suggesting that only $1 million should be spent on Pope John School, which is considered a viable alternative for alleviating overcrowding in the district.

The discussion also touched on past decisions made by city officials, including the controversial sale and subsequent repurchase of the Devon School, which was initially intended for elderly housing but is now viewed as a potential school site. The speaker argued that the community's needs for educational space should take precedence over other developments.

In addition to the old high school, the potential for repurposing Pope John School was presented as a more immediate solution to the district's space issues. The speaker proposed a plan to relocate students from various overcrowded facilities to optimize the use of available resources, suggesting that the community's desire for a new high school may not align with the current needs.

As the meeting progressed, the council members were urged to reconsider their priorities and the implications of their funding decisions. The discussions underscored the community's urgent need for safe and adequate educational facilities, as well as the importance of transparency and accountability in local governance. The outcome of these discussions may significantly influence future educational planning and resource allocation in Everett.