Future of the old Duluth Central High School Building

Public weighs in on what should be done with the former school

Duluth Central High School closed in 2011, but many still have strong feelings about it.

“This is not about this is not about a quick fix,” said one meeting attendee.

The school board listened to comments as they try to decide and sell the old Central land to Tischer Creek Duluth Building Company. They are affiliated with Edison Charter Schools.

“I can understand how a board of education might look at charter schools,” said another attendee.

To sell the property to Tischer and Edison, they must suspend two of their policies which restrict the board from selling the property to another school.

“The long term implications of something like this could mean less positions for employees of ISD 709,” said one attendee.

Tishcer has offered 14.2 million for the property, an amount some tax payers support.

“I encourage you very strongly to do what’s right and sell the property and get that money involved for the taxpayers  that you are also responsible for,” said one attendee.

While others believe a sale to Tischer and Edison, just helps the competition.

“It’s an impact our Duluth Public School students not just now but long term,” said one attendee.

If the policies are waived, the school district would save on operating costs and the board could go into negotiations with Tischer..

“I suggest we change the policy or waive it temporarily to allow things to move on. The basic thing is the students of our community,” said one meeting attendee.

“If Edison goes away because they go bankrupt or not make adequate profits, they’ll leave,” said another meeting attendee.

If they’re not waived, the board could pursue other marketing strategies and sell the land in smaller parcels.

“Edison is going to have  a high school if we sell this one or not,” said one attendee.