Mason Public Schools (MPS) and the City of Mason have demonstrated true regional cooperation by entering into a partnership to share resources and office space. MPS has recently moved its administrative staff into offices within Mason City Hall on 201 West Ash Street. This partnership is unique to the mid-Michigan area. City and school district administration are excited about the opportunities and possibilities this arrangement will create.
City Hall was built for more employees than the City anticipates having in the next 10-15 years. Better utilization of City Hall will maximize space and reduce overhead cost, while ensuring more tax dollars serve the residents of Mason and the students of Mason Public Schools. Collaborating with joint office space demonstrates a commitment from both parties to use tax payer dollars efficiently and create a positive environment in Mason. Both organizations are now able to share resources including conference rooms, parking lots, utilities, etc. Parents and community members will have easy access to school administration and city services with both organizations located under one roof.
The partnership makes fiscal and operational sense for both organizations. By relocating MPS administration, it allows for renovations and new construction to begin at the Harvey Education Center (HEC). Additionally, it will allow the HEC to better serve Mason students as an early childhood and kindergarten building when construction is complete.
“After passing the bond last fall, the Board of Education decided it made sense to move the administrative offices out of the Harvey Education Center to make room for additional programming for Mason’s youngest students. Mason City Manager, Deb Stuart and Mason City Council worked hard to come up with a plan to make this collaboration work for both organizations. The City of Mason staff has been a great partner to us and we look forward to finding other ways to maximize our resources,” said Ronald Drzewicki, Ed.S., Superintendent, Mason Public Schools.
The City of Mason and MPS agreed to a 10-year lease for MPS to be located within City Hall.
Source: PRESS RELEASE
