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B-583 <br /> MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE SCHOOL BOARD <br /> Independent School District 728 <br /> Elk River, Minnesota <br /> May 9,9"'`� <br /> u <br /> The meeting was called to order by Chair Strater at 6:15 p.m. at the School District <br /> Office. <br /> Members Present: Jack Hines, Sarah Mitchell, Sandi Peterson, Patricia Scharber, <br /> Mark Strater, Mary Jo Swanson, Therese VanBlarcom <br /> Qthers Present: Alan Jensen, Superintendent; Ron Bratlie, Director of Business and <br /> Operations; Debra Bowers, Director of Educational Services; Jim <br /> Voight, Director of Schools; Dave Lorenz, Director of Human <br /> Resources; Charlie Blesener, Administrator of Community <br /> Education; Londa Chambers, Administrative Assistant <br /> • Introductions <br /> Dr. Alan Jensen introduced Kara Stokke, Manager of Communications. Dr. Ron Bratlie <br /> introduced Kim Mattson, Manager of Purchasing, and Rick James, Manager of Business. <br /> • Family Arts Center <br /> Charlie Blesener, Administrator of Community Education, reported that we received a <br /> grant in the amount of$500,000 to be used for a family center. When Handke was closed <br /> due to the restructuring, they began to think of Handke as a viable site for the center. The <br /> state would need to be notified if the site was to be changed from new construction. In <br /> April, the Board was unanimous in its support for its partnership with the Arts Alliance <br /> and they are asking the Board to reiterate their commitment. Tony Darkenwald spoke on <br /> behalf of the Elk River Area Arts Alliance. She stated that the Family Arts Center will be <br /> an active place where lifelong learning opportunities will be provided for community <br /> members of all ages. The Arts Alliance is committed to raise $1.5 million for the project. <br /> She discussed their fundraising campaign plans. She also discussed income sources. <br /> Ms Darkenwald also provided a list of reasons why Handke would make a great location <br /> for the center. To continue momentum and to take advantage of the fundraising <br /> opportunities, they need to know the Board's commitment. They are prepared to make <br /> application for two grants and make plans to go ahead. Mr. Don Heinzman stated that he <br /> is confident that this community will support this use for Handke. The Arts Alliance will <br /> work to support future school levy and bond referendums. Mr. Harvey Schroeder talked <br /> about the need for a gathering place such as the one they are proposing. He described <br /> possible scenarios for the use of the center. Mr. Blesener showed a layout of Handke,, <br /> School and how it could incorporate the Family Arts Center. Dr. Jensen stated his <br /> support for the concept of having the Arts Alliance use Handke School for their Family <br /> Arts Center. However, he stated that it's necessary for the district to keep the Handke <br /> building available for the next year in case we would need to utilize it as a school. This <br /> would depend on whether we are able to bond for elementary schools. He believes it <br />