The Marietta City Schools Board of Education approved the sale of the former North Hills Elementary School and property Monday, nearly a decade after the school closed.
We think that was a wise move that will benefit the district and the community.
The seven-acre site was sold to two local development companies, which are expected to build a residential building there. The sale price was $61,500, much lower than the $275,000 the property was appraised for in 2008, but that's likely the best deal the school system was going to get.
Zoning in the neighborhood limited what could be built or operate there, meaning there were few interested parties. Meanwhile, the district still had to pay for upkeep and utilities.
It's much better for Marietta City Schools to unload the property, gain a little money, save on ongoing costs and allow the site to be utilized in a more beneficial way.
The spot is perfect for rental properties, something the area needs more of, housing experts have said.
It's a nice residential neighborhood and can make good homes for local residents, rather than being a mostly unused lot. Such a use shouldn't decrease the quality of the neighborhood for existing residents as other potential uses might have.
It's unclear if the companies approached the district or if district officials actively worked to sell the North Hills property but either way, we see this as a plus for Marietta.
