Friday, September 27, 2024
During the school board meeting Sept. 16, Granbury Independent School District officials approved a motion to enter into a memorandum of understanding with United Way of Hood County to lease a district building located at 305 N. Hannaford St.
This collaboration aims to enhance community support services by providing the United Way with operating space.
An MOU is a formal agreement that outlines the intentions and terms of a partnership between two parties without creating a legally binding obligation. In this case, the MOU will facilitate the leasing process, allowing the United Way to utilize the space for its programs and services aimed at supporting local families.
The motion was introduced by Place 1 trustee Mike Moore, with a second from Place 2 trustee Nancy Alana. The board engaged in detailed discussions regarding the space’s specifics and lease terms.
GISD Chief Financial Officer Emmett Whitefield clarified that the building, which previously housed the Parks and Recreation Department, includes approximately 6,398 square feet of usable space. The plan involves sealing off certain areas while allowing the United Way to use designated offices and conference rooms for storage and operations.
Board members inquired about the status of the lease agreement. Whitefield indicated that both organizations’ legal teams are reviewing the contract, which has undergone some redlining. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that the final terms meet the needs of both parties before proceeding.
“It’s crucial to finalize an agreement that works best for both the United Way and the district,” Whitefield said, adding that authority to negotiate and sign the lease will be delegated to Interim Superintendent Ann Dixon.
The proposed agreement includes a three-year lease term, with the option for annual renewals for up to five years. United Way has expressed a desire to begin operations as soon as possible, targeting a move-in date of Oct. 1, although this date is still subject to negotiation.
The space’s rental fee is $900 per month, a discounted rate given United Way’s status as a nonprofit organization. The board discussed various responsibilities, including that United Way will be responsible for maintaining HVAC and plumbing systems.
Place 3 trustee Melanie Graft expressed concerns about the lease, resulting in a split vote among board members. Two board members, Karen Lowery Place 7 and Barbara Townsend, president, were absent from the meeting.
Ultimately, the motion passed with a 4-1 vote to grant Dixon the authority to finalize the lease agreement.
