ST. LOUIS (KMOX) - Clayton Board of Education apologized Tuesday for inadequate communication regarding it purchase of Caleres Headquarters last week, which is located adjacent to Clayton High School.
In a letter from the Clayton Board of Education Tuesday to the Clayton community, it said they wanted to reach out with more details about the contemplated purchase of the Caleres site. It goes on to say, "our partnership with the City is of immense value to us and we would never proceed with any development which impedes the City’s ability to generate revenue in any significant manner."
"We know that the success of our District cannot be separated from the vitality of the community in which it resides," the letter wrote. "And we cannot – and will not – invest in a real estate endeavor that does not respect the symbiotic relationship between District and City."
The purchase of Caleres Headquarters last week, received criticism from parents and officials, with criticism aimed at the lack of communication regarding the purchase concerns about lost in tax revenue. Some of the biggest critics include a Clayton Condo Building Association, which includes four former Clayton Mayors, and group of residents led by former KMOX personality Charlie Brennan.
The board says in its letter it is in the process of examining their due diligence information related to this potential property acquisition and promise to keep you informed with regular updates as we move forward.
District officials have previously told KMOX the sale is scheduled to be completed in February if the board still decides to purchase the property, with the deal financed through 20-year financing plan meant to avoid increasing taxes and structured like a bond issue. The district will utilize District capital improvement funds.