Honorable Members of the City Council,

As a former representative of Ward 3 and an advocate for the responsible development of our city’s assets, I bring forth concerns regarding the proposed rehabilitation of the Old Everett High School.

The order to borrow and allocate $11.4 million for initial improvements to the Old Everett High School fails to address the broader vision for this historic site. Decades of neglect have left the building in a state of disrepair, requiring comprehensive renovation beyond the scope of the proposed exterior improvements.

Furthermore, the lack of a long-term plan for the Old Everett High School raises questions about the administration’s approach to managing our city’s resources. Rather than simply patching up the building, we should be exploring opportunities for redevelopment that align with the needs and aspirations of our community.

In my view, the Old Everett High School presents a prime opportunity for collaboration with a third-party developer, similar to the proposed redevelopment of Pope John High School referenced in a recent editorial. By partnering with an organization who shares the residents vision for the site, we can ensure that it is revitalized in a manner that maximizes its potential benefit to the community.

However, I must stress that community feedback and active community participation are critical in this process. In the past, an open and transparent approach has not always been prioritized, leading to a lack of trust and buy-in from residents. Moving forward, it is imperative that we engage with residents, solicit their input, and include them in the decision-making process every step of the way.

Additionally, any development on the proposed lot must prioritize the creation of green space and community areas. As our city grows, it’s essential to preserve and enhance our natural environment while providing spaces where residents can come together and build a sense of community.

I urge all members of the City Council to consider the broader implications of the proposed rehabilitation of the Old Everett High School and to explore alternative approaches that prioritize long-term sustainability, community engagement, transparency, and the creation of green and community spaces.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Darren Costa

Former Ward 3 City Councilor

Darren4Everett.com