Message from the Superintendent: Surplus Property Update - Board Approves Resolution Regarding Sale of MacPhail Site

Surplus Property Update: Board Approves Resolution Regarding Sale of MacPhail Site

Dear SRCS Community, San Rafael City Schools has been engaging the community around the future of its surplus properties. While not being used by SRCS now or for the foreseeable future, the properties are an important part of our District and greater community. They are also considerable assets, and it is the District’s desire to make the highest and best use of these properties to benefit our students, our community and the financial health of the District.  In early 2024, the District explored interest from nonprofits and public entities who might be interested in using or acquiring these sites. This led to the Board approving two leases with community groups for the Old Gallinas site.  Regarding the MacPhail site (located in the Santa Venetia area), the District initially received two eligible offers. After months of extended good faith negotiations, the District was not able to come to what we believe is an acceptable purchase agreement for the site; it wasn’t until recently that negotiations concluded with a local private family foundation. We remain committed to our duty to our students to ensure that the property is only sold at fair market value.  At its meeting last evening, the Board discussed the next steps of the potential sale of the property. They approved a resolution declaring the intention to sell the MacPhail surplus property, using a competitive bid process open to the general public. This process also allows interested non-profits and public entities to participate in the bidding as well. The District will keep our community updated as the process unfolds, and we remain dedicated to transparent decision-making now and moving forward if the Board considers moving forward with a bid.  Click here for additional background information along with details on the next steps in the potential sale of the MacPhail site. Sincerely, Carmen Diaz Ghysels Superintendent     San Rafael City Schools www.srcs.org  |  communications@srcs.org 310 Nova Albion Way, San Rafael, CA 94903