A major concern during the meeting was the inadequate cell phone service inside the school building, a problem that has persisted despite previous investments aimed at improvement. An outstanding bill of approximately $3,400 was noted, alongside a prior investment of around $110,000 intended to enhance cell phone connectivity. A technician had visited the site but was unable to complete the analysis due to equipment issues. It was reported that the signal strength outside the building had decreased since the initial assessment three years prior, and there was consensus on the urgency of resolving these connectivity issues. Despite the installation of 52 antennas, teachers reported no connectivity even when standing directly under them. The committee discussed the potential use of Wi-Fi calling as an alternative solution to improve communication during emergencies, though concerns about network security were raised.

The meeting also addressed the condition of the gym floor, where issues such as paint chipping and sponginess were noted. The flooring, characterized by small slats, was recognized as a less common choice, necessitating regular maintenance, including annual repainting, to manage its condition. Questions regarding the specifications for the subfloor were raised, leading to a review of prior communications about the flooring project’s requirements.

Another issue was the ongoing construction challenges, particularly concerning the gutter systems and the involvement of Gail Associates in evaluating and proposing repairs. The contractor, Agustinini, had been unresponsive, prompting the committee to consider going out to bid independently for the necessary repairs. Gail Associates proposed various services, including ongoing leak evaluations and preparation of bid documents for public bidding, at a cost of $92,200. A formal vote on the proposal was approved with a majority, despite some concerns about the cost and scope of the work.

The roof’s structural design and drainage systems were also a focal point, with particular attention to a cricket that was not part of the original roof plan. The lack of a tapered slope at the roof edge resulted in water missing the gutters or overflowing them, leading to potential water damage. Three potential solutions were discussed: building a cricket as initially intended, removing the cricket to facilitate water flow directly to the gutters, or adding additional gutters, each with its own implications for cost and effectiveness. Concerns about the roof warranty were raised, emphasizing the need to confirm warranty details before proceeding with any repairs or alterations.

Further complicating the situation were concerns about the auditorium’s sound system, which was deemed inadequate for performances. The committee discussed adding more speakers and sound dampening to improve audio clarity, with a company named Ochres handling the design for the new speakers. The lack of speakers in individual rooms, initially included in the bidding process but later removed, was also noted. A motion to approve the proposed improvements was made, emphasizing the necessity of ensuring the motion was officially recorded.

The meeting concluded with discussions about ongoing financial obligations, including invoices from Greenwood for roof repairs and a correspondence from CHA requesting extra compensation for legal work not included in their original contract. The committee planned to draft a response asserting that no additional work had been requested or authorized.