The Parkland community raised enough money through grants, donations, and a state allocation to make the earnest money and now, the down payment on the Parkland School! With that, PLU has agreed to hold a contract for the balance of the funds at 0% interest. On May 10, the transaction closed and Parkland Community Assn. got the keys.

That means, “WE” (the community) SAVED the historic building! No demolition, no odd-looking facsimile of the school as an apartment building, and we can put much needed community services there.

The Parkland Community Association (PCA) will continue to raise money to make the annual payments due on the building to PLU. In the meantime, having possession of the structure gives them a chance to apply for additional grants that will help pay for repairs and upgrades necessary, and to lease space.

The website for the project will now show multiple fundraising goals as the focus shifts to repairs, leases, maintenance, and mortgage payments.

Meetings now discuss bathrooms, plumbing, roof repair, elevators and light bulbs. A work party has gone out to mow the lawn, trim the bushes, and remove trash.

Two more Fridays at the Parkland Denny’s are planned on May 24 and 30th. Come out, have a meal. Denny’s will give a percentage to the project. If you like, you can make an additional donation to the committee on site those nights. Special guests are planned to be on hand as greeters, perhaps a committee member or a public official. You need to be there to find out.

The Pierce Prairie Post and Spanaway Community Association wishes to congratulate the Parkland School Committee for their tenacity, dedication, and ambition. They have worked hard, shown up and made it happen. We wish them continued strength, tenacity, and inspiration as they enter this new phase bringing the programs and services at the Parkland School into the community.

See you at Denny’s Friday!