Duluth Central High School Gets Buyer

DULUTH, Minn. - Central High School has been on the market for three years after some schools in Duluth were closed and consolidated. The Duluth School Board unanimously approved entering into a purchase agreement for the development of the more than 40- year-old prime real estate. Officials tell FOX 21 right now they cannot say who the developers are and what they plan to do with the property once it is on the market for more than $14 million. But they say the facility has been re–zoned for mixed use and commercial development and they do believe future plans will include a housing component. "Housing that can help support expansions and business and industry, that's something that's been identified as currently needed in Duluth,” Duluth Public Schools property and risk manager Kerry Leider said. “I think certainly it has the potential for a great community development up here." School officials say the upkeep and security on the building has cost the district more than $100,000 a year. The sale of the property will help replenish funds used to pay for the expenses. They also believe it will help add to the city's tax base. The school board will be working on finalizing the purchase agreement and conducting an environmental study in the next couple of weeks. They are hoping to close in the middle of next summer.