Michael Avis (left) shakes Board President Elizabeth Dolezal’s hand after taking the oath of office and becoming the newest member of the South Tama Board of Education. PHOTO BY JONATHAN MEYER

The South Tama School Board opened its July 6 meeting by welcoming its newest member, as Michael Avis was sworn in by Board President Elizabeth Dolezal at the beginning of the meeting. Avis will fill the rest of Megan Thiessen’s term in District 3, which lasts until November 2027.

Following the oath of office, the board held a public hearing regarding the sale of the old South Tama Middle School property. No comments were made in person or online during the hearing, and the hearing was closed.

In May, Steve Emerson presented his proposal that would involve converting the old school into multi-family housing focused on workforce and family residents.

Later in the meeting, the board approved a resolution authorizing the sale of the old middle school property to PTRO Investments, LLC.

The resolution states that the property will be sold to PTRO Investments, LLC for $1 and “other good and valuable consideration.” The transaction will be completed by warranty deed.

The only audience question during the action item was regarding when the official sale will be complete, with the answer being 30-45 days.

The next board meeting is scheduled for July 20, as the meeting for the 26-27 school year will be on the first and third Mondays.