The most pressing topic of the meeting was the approval of the senior center invoice, amounting to $2,174,380. This figure, already vetted by Vertex, generated questions regarding the level of detail provided compared to previous invoices, such as the King Street project. The committee addressed these concerns before approving the invoice through a roll call vote.

Subsequently, the committee turned to the King Street project, where a warrant amount of $343,023 was presented. Discussions included an invoice related to the relocation of a piano, necessitated by storage requirements due to construction site conditions. This invoice highlighted the logistical challenges faced in aligning construction activities with project needs. The committee approved this warrant, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding assets during construction.

The Shaker Lane feasibility study also received attention, with option 3.2 (the upper field) being selected for submission to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). This decision followed a systematic scoring process that guided the committee’s choice.

On the senior center front, updates detailed progress in construction, particularly exterior installations such as sidewalks and siding. Interior advancements included drywall and elevator installations, with electrical systems already in place. The committee anticipated the completion of exterior painting, contingent on favorable weather, and stressed adhering to specifications. A notable financial decision was the approval of a $249,000 purchase order for the building’s furniture package through a state contract with WB Mason, marking a prudent step in budget management given the original $285,000 allocation.

Addressing long lead items like solar panels, the committee examined procurement challenges due to outdated specifications. A new solution was identified.

In parallel, discussions on the Indian Hill project revealed that exterior work was nearing completion, with painting and gutter installations already done. Interior framing work, especially in the basement, required special attention due to unique conditions, such as framing for game rooms and bathroom walls. Security system integration emerged as a key focus, involving coordination with subcontractors for seamless implementation.

Budgetary concerns permeated the meeting, particularly regarding technology and security expenses. A potential over-budget line item for computers and technology prompted discussions on budget transfers to cover wireless access points and network switches. The committee highlighted the necessity of evaluating proposed changes before final decisions.

Finally, the committee proposed rescheduling its next meeting to December 11th due to quorum challenges. Discussions included designating specific members to approve invoices in the absence of a quorum.