Repurpose schools

G.S. Fraser, Collierville

I applaud Shelby County Schools’ decision to close underutilized schools (April 1 article, “SCS to shut 2 schools: South Side and Lincoln”). The changes will help SCS’ finances.

Of more concern is what happens to these soon-to-be-vacant properties. Give them to a developer with a deed restriction that single-family homes of a minimum size and price must be developed. Establish a special district encompassing the area, and direct all property taxes within the district to the school system.

The schools win with a new funding source supplement, and no more maintenance expenses. The neighborhood wins with erased blight and new homes. Taxpayers win with the elimination of a maintenance burden, and added properties to the tax rolls.