Adrian, MI – The Lenawee Intermediate School District has voted to purchase the Jackson College facility located on the LISD campus in Adrian. The $2.8 million deal will transfer ownership back to the LISD, who sold the building to Jackson College in 2001 for $85,500. An additional 3.98 acres was sold in ‘08 for about $378,000.
The facility on North Main Street measures approximately 27,000 square feet. Jackson College President Daniel Phelan said that the facility is in need of maintenance beyond what JC can provide. He added that the college’s continued ownership of the building seems unnecessary at a time when the college is seeing low enrollment and the LISD is in need of space.
The purchase agreement also includes approximately 7.4 acres. JC will be leasing some space for instructional and office use, and the LISD Board also unanimously approved a 5-year lease agreement after the action on the purchase agreement on Monday. LISD Superintendent Mark Haag told WLEN News that, “Jackson College and the Lenawee ISD have enjoyed a long-standing and collaborative partnership, including the JC/LISD Academy – A Regional Middle College, which occupies several classrooms in this facility.”
In addition to the sale agreement, LISD board members approved an agreement that will allow Jackson College to continue leasing portions of the facility. The lease agreement includes a lump sum of $20,000, plus a rate of $35 per hour of actual classroom use by JC. The initial five-year lease begins on the closing date of the property purchase, which is set for June 30th. The LISD could use the building for future career and technology education programming.
In terms of intended use for the Lenawee ISD, we will be using it for expanded Career & Technical Education programming. Three programs were moved to the Jackson College Building for the 2023-24 school year, which include Accounting, Graphic Design and Marketing & Entrepreneurship programs.
Haag commented on the long-time partnership between the two institutions. “As we continue to expand Career & Technical Education opportunities for Lenawee County youth, coupled with other educational needs and changes, the LISD has a need for more space. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Jackson College, as they continue to provide key opportunities for Lenawee County residents, including our youth.”
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