HPS District buys two buildings

The former People’s Community Center was recently purchased by the Hamtramck Public School District.

By Charles Sercombe
The Hamtramck Public School District is expanding.
That is, in the number of buildings it owns.
Recently, the district purchased two buildings: the former People’s Community Services, located at 8633 Jos. Campau; and the former social security building, at 9324 Conant.
According to a press release issued by the district, both were bought “well below market rate.”
At the district’s State of the District Address last Thursday, Superintendent Jaleelah Ahmed said the Jos. Campau building was purchased for $527,500, and the Conant building was purchased for a little over $1.4 million.
The district will spend an additional $5.3 million in installing heating and cooling systems, furniture and technology for the buildings.
District Superintendent Ahmed praised the purchases in the press release issued by the district.
“The purchase of these local properties through the district’s general operating fund, in tandem with other improvements we are proposing across Hamtramck Public Schools, brings a sense of renewed hope for the future of our district, and is another step toward giving our students all of the tools they need to succeed,” said Ahmed.
“By using existing funds, the district will be able to add much-needed learning space at no additional cost to taxpayers. It’s both a good investment and a strong opportunity for our district.”
Both buildings will require renovations to meet environmental codes, and the district’s own needs.
As for the People’s Community Services building, that organization was forced to close its facility because of the Covid pandemic.
“Many members of the Board have fond memories of People’s Community Services and its contributions to Hamtramck,” said School Board President Jihan Aiyash.
“When we were presented with the opportunity to purchase it, there was no hesitation from the Board to move forward – especially given it was available below market rate. We are excited to expand our district services in spaces that have always played a critical role in our community.”
Ahmed also lamented the closing of the organization’s building.
“It is unfortunate that People’s Community Services was forced to close, after 65 years of incredible contributions to the residents of our city, but I can think of no greater way to honor that organization’s legacy than by providing the children of Hamtramck the space they need to thrive,” Ahmed said.
The district is also making improvements to other buildings, especially to make them Covid-safe, thanks to some federal funding.
Last year, the district failed to get voter approval for a bond proposal to raise property taxes by seven mills for up to 30 years. It would have raised $35 million.
The district had planned to build a new school and make improvements to other buildings. High on the wish list for the district is to eliminate temporary classrooms next to Kosciusko Middle School, and get all students inside a building.
The district also said it plans to continue online virtual learning, as well as have in-person classrooms.
Student enrollment for the fall is ongoing. The district has about 3,000 students.
Posted July 18, 2021