Page 2 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, September 17, 2021 Mystic Valley Regional Charter School A History of Partnering with the City of Malden Emerson School u In 2012, The Malden Redevelopment Authority (MRA) on behalf of the City of Malden released a Request for Proposal (RFP) seeking redevelopment offers for the Emerson School Property. MVRCS was the high bidder by $400,000 over the next highest response. u Then Ward Two Councilor Steven Ultrino held a ward meeting at the Emerson School and asked the neighborhood if they wished the school to be sold to MVRCS or sold for apartments or condos. The neighborhood overwhelmingly responded that they would prefer the school. u The Malden City Council voted 10 – 0 to authorize the sale of the Emerson and allow the mayor to enter into an agreement. u In May of 2013, the City of Malden and MVRCS executed a land disposition agreement for 238 Highland Ave. (former Emerson School property) for $1,300,000. The agreement also provides a Right of First Refusal for the City of Malden to purchase the property at fair market value if MVRCS elects to transfer, convey, sell, and/or assign any portion of or all of the premises. u In the year of the sale, the City of Malden used the funds to help close a school budget gap. In addition to the purchase price: u MVRCS committed to providing payments of ten thousand ($10,000) per year for 10 years to be placed into the City of Malden’s Ward improvement fund to be dedicated to and earmarked for improvements in those areas of Malden where MVRCS was located at that time. u The school also agreed to keep and provide upkeep and annual beautification of the World War II Memorial located on the property. MVRCS has proudly followed through on this commitment. u In the summer of 2013, MVRCS made approximately $1,500,000 in necessary renovation and building improvements so it could operate as a high school building. MVRCS has preserved the integrity of the original building design. u Residents in the neighborhood have had access to parking at night. We look forward to a time when we can continue to collaborate with the City of Malden in a mutually-beneficial manner
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