Nonprofit group asks to use building on Hidden Valley High School campus

A nonprofit wants to move into a little-utilized Roanoke County Schools building that’s in disrepair. But the cash-strapped school system may be turning to the community for help funding repairs.

The Prevention Council of Roanoke County approached the Roanoke County School Board about using the Woods End House, located on the Hidden Valley High School campus.

The home predates the school and was on the property when it was purchased. Initially outfitted and used for meetings, the building has been vacant in recent years and needs rehabbing that the system may not be able to afford.

School board members mulled the issue during a meeting Thursday. They said the system must fix the house and find a group to use it, or demolish it. While no decision was made, board members said the latter is something they’d rather not do.

“We can’t just let it go in the direction it’s going,” board Chairman Jerry Canada said. “There’s so much history in that house. I love that house. It’s a beautiful structure. If we’re going to keep it, we’re going to have to maintain it.”

Nancy Hans, council director, said her group would like to move into the facility, but would not be in a position to pay for capital improvements. The organization could assume the cost of utilities and liability insurance.

Marty Misicko, the school system’s director of operations, said the Prevention Council could enter a lease with the school system, but the building would need improvements and have to be rezoned before the group could occupy it. A rezoning, which he estimated could take four months, would mean adding a ramp and handicapped parking to become ADA compliant, as well as adding a sprinkler system.

He estimated, without knowing a specific cost for the sprinkler system, that the facility would need $25,000 worth of work.

Vice Chairman Drew Barrineau described the building as “a shell of itself” and noted the situation is at a turning point. But he also said there are a lot of needs across the school system. Board member Mike Stovall suggested turning to the community for help.

“I think it’s time for the village to rally,” Stovall said, adding maybe there are contractors that would step up to assist.

Board members requested Misicko come back to officials with a complete estimate on the work at a construction committee meeting next month.

“Let’s keep the ball rolling,” Canada said.

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