The Bluewater District School Board (BWDSB) is looking at purchasing land across the region for the development of new schools.
The board approved a standard delegate authority to the Director of Education and Superintendent of Business Services and Treasurer during a meeting on June 4, which allows for the sell or purchase of land throughout the summer months.
The BWDSB is considering purchasing land in Kincardine for the new Kincardine District Senior School, as well as in Southgate for a new Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 school, in Saugeen Shores for a new school, and in Meaford to support future enrolment accommodations.
Superintendent of Business Services and Treasurer Andrew Low says, “right now, we have an approved build in Kincardine and Dundalk. Where by where working with property owners to purchase the land for our schools. So those would be our priorities right now.”
The new Kincardine school will have the capacity for 881 students, and replace the current Kincardine District Senior School. Additionally, about $28 million in funding for the new Dundalk school was recently announced, which will bring the number of student spaces in the community up to 1,322.
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He says while they are more focused on the new builds for Kincardine and Dundalk, purchasing land for the other two locations is only being considered.
Low was not able to discuss any pricing, but says there is an appraisal process.
“We are looking to purchase Kincardine as soon as possible, and Dundalk is in the appraisal process now. We hope to secure that land as soon as possible as well because once we get those lands, then we can process their builds,” says Low.
While any sale or purchase is not finalized as of yet, if any acquisition were to happen between June 27 and Sept. 3, a report will be brought back to the Business Committee of the Whole in September.
