(KTTS News) — The Ozark School District has closed on its $8.27 million purchase of commercial property known as Dolby Laboratories.
The property, located at 1650 W. Jackson St., is approximately 161,000 square feet, consisting of about 143,500 square feet of warehouse space and 18,000 square feet of office space.
To put that in perspective, the Ozark Innovation Center and District Office are approximately 170,000 square feet.
The District is selling other buildings to help offset the cost.
The district intends to use it for students.
It will be up to the Long Range Planning Committee and the School Board on how to use it.
Press Release
It’s been nearly five years since Ozark School District purchased the commercial property known as the Fasco building. And as of Dec. 29, the District has nearly doubled that space with the purchase of its neighbor, Dolby Laboratories.
“Purchasing the Dolby Labs building was a strategic investment that not only reflects our commitment to fostering the growth of our school district, but also signifies a dedicated effort to enhance the learning environment for our students,” School Board President Sarah Adams Orr said. “Together, we are building a brighter future for education in our Ozark community.”
The property, located at 1650 W. Jackson St., is approximately 161,000 square feet, consisting of about 143,500 square feet of warehouse space and 18,000 square feet of office space. To put that in perspective, the Ozark Innovation Center and District Office are approximately 170,000 square feet.
The District purchased the property for $8.27 million. However, Assistant Superintendent of Operations Curtis Chesick said the District is selling other buildings to help offset the cost. The District will share more details on those properties once the sales are finalized.
“By selling off the other property, it allows us to offset the purchase price and monthly operating expenses as well as consolidate some other services,” Chesick said.
Chesick said the building has a new roof, new HVAC system and recent office remodeling, which will save the District money in renovation costs down the road.
So, what will the District do with this added space? Initially, the maintenance and technology departments will take residence. As for the bigger picture, the District will begin discussing potential uses with the Long Range Planning Committee. The next meeting is 6:30 – 8 p.m. Jan. 16 at Ozark Middle School. However, the District may add an additional meeting to discuss potential use in greater detail.
“The intent is to use it for students, but that is up to the Long Range Planning Committee and the School Board to decide what that looks like,” Chesick said. “This is an opportunity to save money on future growth.”
It’s not too late to serve on the Long Range Planning Committee. Find more details and register here – https://bit.ly/45Mi0Tx.
“This building is giving us a lot of much-needed space, and I’m looking forward to seeing what this next chapter holds for Ozark School District,” Superintendent Lori Wilson said. “I want to thank the community and staff members who are serving on our Long Range Planning Committee and helping provide input as to how to best use this space for students in the future.”
