The meeting’s central topic was the consideration of RGB and HKT for a project requiring extensive feasibility studies. Committee members expressed a leaning towards RGB, citing the firm’s thorough presentation and extensive experience in managing projects from feasibility studies to completion. The proximity of RGB’s location in Providence compared to HKT’s Boston base was highlighted. Concerns were raised over HKT’s reliance on subcontractors, which members feared might complicate timelines and budgets. Additionally, HKT’s lack of a clear funding plan was noted as a critical drawback, as securing town support would require a robust funding strategy.

Despite the preference for RGB, members were cautious about their proposed timelines, particularly due to the upcoming holidays and challenges of winter construction. The committee agreed on the necessity for setting timeline parameters and stipulations for deliverables, irrespective of which firm was chosen. There was also a consensus on the importance of thoroughly vetting RGB, given their previous project experience mainly in Rhode Island, to ensure they could effectively transition to Massachusetts projects.

The committee also engaged in a discussion about potential grants, focusing on a mix of state and federal funding opportunities, with a stronger emphasis on state grants. There was an acknowledgment of the challenges in securing grants for significant projects, particularly those related to the high school. A member noted the necessity of possibly pursuing a debt exclusion, stressing the importance of balancing public opinion with delivering a conclusive project proposal.

Public involvement was another recurring theme, with members emphasizing the need for active community engagement throughout the project process. The potential impact of seasonal conditions on public meetings was discussed, with a suggestion that even if RGB delivered its findings by March, it might not leave sufficient time to prepare for a town meeting. This concern highlighted the broader issue of aligning project timelines with town meeting schedules to ensure adequate preparation and community input.

Ultimately, a motion was made to recommend RGB to the select board for contract negotiations, with particular attention to adjusting the timeline and other details. The motion sparked further discussion on the need for a specific timeline and its implications for the committee’s deliverables to town meeting. Members agreed on the importance of clarity regarding what would be presented to the town meeting, with some expressing concern that the format was not conducive to gathering feedback without financial implications.

Following these deliberations, the committee transitioned to administrative tasks, including approving minutes from previous meetings, which passed without opposition. They also addressed the appointment of a committee clerk, with one member volunteering to take on the role, emphasizing the importance of maintaining public access to meeting records through transcriptions.