The Highline School District has agreed to buy three acres of undeveloped property at a reduced price for the possible expansion of the Puget Sound Skills Center.
Currently owned by the Port of Seattle, the parcel is adjacent to the district's Maintenance, Operations and Transportation facility and the skills center at 18010 8th Ave. S. in Burien. The property fronts 8th Avenue South.
The school board had previously approved the purchase in August 2008, but district officials later objected to the agreed-upon price after finding a considerable amount of fill dirt on the property.
The district's appraiser adjusted the valuation of the property down from $1.25 million to $870,000. However, the Port's appraiser estimated the parcel's value at $1.03 million.
To resolve the impasse, both parties agreed to a binding third appraisal. In July, the third appraiser upheld the district's figure.
The district still has 90 days to further study the property before the purchase is closed.
Assistant Superintendent Geri Fain told board members at their Aug. 26 meeting the acquired property would probably be used for parking instead of buildings so the fill amount is not as critical an issue.
During the meeting, Superintendent John Welch announced that the deadline for students to pay to play fall sports has been extended to Oct. 1.
For the first time, the Highline district has begun a "pay for play" policy for high school and middle school athletics.
For high school, fees are $50 per sport. Students who qualify for free or reduced lunch are charged $25 per sport. Middle school fees are $30 and $15.
There is no charge for participation in a third sport during the school year.
The Highline Schools Foundation for Excellence is setting up an athletic scholarship fund for those who cannot afford the fees.