Dear colleagues,
As you know, in December NMC’s Board of Trustees authorized me to negotiate with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians following their initial offer to purchase the Boardman Lake campus. I’m writing to let you know we have now agreed to terms in principle, including a purchase price of $27 million. Both parties have signed a letter of intent to proceed with the sale, and I have suspended the RFP process that began in October, which led to the Band’s initial offer. We anticipate completing the sale in the spring, following due diligence and pending trustee approval.
The Band shared they will use the property, part of their ancestral homelands, as a centralized governmental services center. Additionally, they are committing to maintaining public access for recreation, including the Boardman Lake loop trail, and lake and river access. Under the terms of the agreement, the Tribe has committed to never using the property for any gaming activities.
I know this continuity of community engagement reflects the intent of those who campaigned for the property over 35 years ago, when NMC purchased the property from Sara Lee. The building quickly grew into a critical asset for the college and our region. More than 10,000 students have earned advanced degrees through the Boardman Lake Campus thanks to the generosity of donors like Art and Mary Schmuckal, for whom the building was named, and the innovative vision of those who advocated for the acquisition.
Now, with different dynamics in higher education and course delivery options, including online and hybrid formats, and with our University Partners relocated to our Front Street campus, it is the right time for the property to enter its next era. The sale of this property will support and help accelerate more than $100 million in projects set forth in our campus master plan (basic infrastructure needs, like the need for more student housing and a new power plant), as well as advance our strategic priorities: future focused education, student engagement and success, and a vibrant college community.
As we begin a new year, I’m feeling incredibly grateful as we advance this opportunity. An opportunity for a win-win-win: a win for the Grand Traverse Band, a win for the College and our NMC students, and a win for the community.
Thank you for all you do for NMC.
Nick