OCALA, Fla. – The fate of a 119-year-old building in the heart of Ocala’s historic district is now in the hands of the community. The Marion County School District is considering selling the property that once housed its headquarters — and the first brick-and-mortar school ever built in the county — and residents are asking decision-makers to pump the brakes.
A public meeting is scheduled to give community members a chance to weigh in.
A Building Rooted in County History
The old Marion County School District building has sat empty for four years, locked and untouched since closing due to facility and environmental concerns. Neighbors say black mold is a significant issue inside. The building hasn’t been renovated since 1967.
But for many in the community, its condition doesn’t erase its significance…