7‑Eleven committee delays decision on Adams Middle School, schedules June 22 site visit

The West Contra Costa Unified School District 7‑Eleven committee on June 1 unanimously postponed a decision on the future of the Adams Middle School property, directing staff to organize a site visit and additional analysis before the committee moves forward with any surplus designation or disposition.

Committee discussion focused on three core concerns: (1) physical and environmental constraints — speakers cited a 50‑foot Alquist‑Priolo seismic setback in parts of the parcel and extensive underground utilities that complicate redevelopment; (2) demolition and environmental‑remediation costs — staff noted earlier cost studies and one committee member referenced a historical demolition estimate above $5 million and the likelihood of asbestos and lead‑paint remediation; and (3) valuation and data currency — members said the most recent appraisals on file ranged from two to four years old and asked for updated appraisals and clearer demo‑cost estimates before issuing public recommendations.

A legal advisor also outlined statutory alternatives for 100% affordable or workforce housing projects that can proceed under state law without full surplus‑disposition steps, a point several members said they wanted incorporated into the committee’s next review.

After extended discussion the committee voted to table the Adams determination and set a site visit for June 22 to inspect Portola (master‑gardener area) and Adams; committee members asked staff to coordinate access, notice the public and report back with updated cost, appraisal and title information before a final recommendation.

Recorded roll‑call votes on the tabling motion were entered as unanimous in the transcript.