The Mill Valley School District just released its latest findings on soil safety at Mill Valley Middle School. Parents, staff, and folks across Marin County seem a bit more at ease now.
The new report says the Sycamore Avenue school doesn’t pose a health risk to anyone there, even though it’s built on a former landfill. With renovations or relocation still up in the air, the district faces a big December decision that could shape middle school education in Mill Valley for years.
Discover hand-picked hotels and vacation homes tailored for every traveler. Skip booking fees and secure your dream stay today with real-time availability!
Browse Accommodations Now
New Soil Report Confirms Safety at Mill Valley Middle School
Superintendent Elizabeth Kaufman shared the state-mandated soil re-testing results this week. She emphasized that methane levels remain well within safe limits for students and staff.
The California Department of Toxic Substances Control called for the latest test to double-check earlier findings taken during wet weather. The school, built in 1972 over a landfill, sits on a secure clay cap.
Some Mill Valley residents have worried about the site’s history. But the data keeps showing no immediate health hazards.
District officials are looking at adding a vapor mitigation system if renovations move forward. It’s an extra step to boost long-term safety, just in case.
Public Discussion and State Review Timeline
The district wants to hear from the community, and they’re accepting public comments through November 18. There’s a formal hearing on November 20, giving Marin County residents—especially those in Mill Valley—a real chance to speak up before the project goes to final state review in December.
Parent associations from San Rafael to Tiburon are watching this closely. They know whatever happens here could set a precedent for how Marin County schools handle future redevelopment projects.
Renovation vs. Relocation: A Divided Community
The Measure G bond, passed in 2022, sets aside $95 million for the middle school modernization. Now, the choice is between renovating the Sycamore Avenue campus or moving the school near Edna Maguire Elementary.
Many Mill Valley residents think renovation is the way to keep the school central and avoid new traffic headaches.
Edna Maguire Neighborhood Concerns
Neighbors near Edna Maguire Elementary aren’t thrilled about the idea of relocation. They worry about more congestion, noise, and changes to their neighborhood’s character.
Traffic impacts could spill over, affecting daily routines for families in Belvedere, Larkspur, and even Corte Madera who drive through the area.
Criticism from Advocacy Groups
The advocacy group Mill Valley Modernization Mess isn’t happy with the draft environmental impact report. They argue the district’s review is incomplete and maybe even misleading, suggesting hidden financial and environmental costs if the landfill site gets renovated.
Balancing Safety, Cost, and Community Vision
District reps say they’ll review every public comment before trustees make the final call. The decision isn’t just about money or design; it’s about the long-term vision for education in Mill Valley and how redevelopment could affect neighbors in Fairfax, Novato, and Sausalito.
What’s Next for Mill Valley Middle School?
If the board gets environmental approvals and finalizes its decision in December, construction could start by June. That’s a pretty quick turnaround, and district leaders seem to feel the urgency to upgrade facilities without too much disruption for students.
Key Milestones Ahead
Here’s a quick look at the important dates coming up for Marin County residents and stakeholders:
- Nov. 18 – Deadline for public comments on the second soil test
- Nov. 20 – Public hearing before environmental review submission
- December – Final state review and trustee decision on site location
- June – Target date for start of construction
Community Engagement Matters
Decisions like these really need strong community participation. From the hills of Mill Valley to the shores of Sausalito, Marin County residents genuinely care about keeping our schools safe and functional.
Public hearings and comment periods give locals a real shot at shaping what happens next. It’s the most direct way to make sure our voices count.
The Mill Valley School District now faces a choice: renovation or relocation. The safety of students and the integrity of our community have to come first, no matter what.
Whether the middle school stays put on Sycamore Avenue or moves closer to Edna Maguire, the whole process lets the community help define our educational future. It’s a big deal, honestly, and everyone has a stake in it.
—
Would you like me to also create a **meta description** and recommended **keywords** for this blog post so it’s fully optimized for search engines? That could boost visibility for local readers across Marin County.
Here is the source article for this story: Mill Valley Middle School soils report affirms site safety
Find available hotels and vacation homes instantly. No fees, best rates guaranteed!
Check Availability Now
Cities and Towns in Marin County
Things to Do in Marin County
Places to Stay in Marin County
