A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing a change order related to the photovoltaic (PV) system and geothermal components of the construction project. Initially, a change order request was estimated at over $700,000 due to necessary adjustments in the concrete foundations and the steel canopy size for the PV system. However, the contractor, Daniscoco, in collaboration with CTA, discovered a more economical solution by engaging a foundation contractor who utilized an auguring process for deep foundations. This approach resulted in a revised change order cost of $450,800. Despite this additional expenditure, the town’s current estimated costs for the PV system remain nearly one million dollars below earlier projections.

Updates were also provided on securing federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act. Initially, the town planned to apply for credits solely for the geothermal portion. However, recent federal policy changes allow for the separation of the PV project from the geothermal project, enabling applications for credits for both components. This development could offset the project’s costs. Additionally, the town is preparing to apply for a state grant from the Massachusetts Green Communities Program, aimed at backstopping federal funding and providing state financial support while awaiting potential federal funds. If federal funds are secured, the state money would either be returned or redirected to another renewable project within the town.

The discussion also highlighted the uncertainty surrounding federal funding, with optimism tempered by the unpredictable nature of such financial support. One council member pointed out the town’s status as a sanctuary community, which could influence federal funding access. Nevertheless, the council expressed hope in securing both federal and state financial backing to mitigate the burden of the change order costs.

In another key segment of the meeting, the council addressed rumors circulating within the community about the project’s timeline. One participant dispelled misinformation suggesting the project would not be ready until January. Another council member emphasized the importance of proactive communication to counter skepticism and keep the community informed about the project’s progress, including positive aspects like the playground development.

Updates on furniture procurement and playground surfacing were also provided. The furniture procurement process was reported to be on track, with favorable pricing and smooth cross-checking of vendor information. A mandatory pre-bid meeting for the playground surfacing saw participation from three interested parties, although only one had prior experience with the required Corken product. The bidding documents mandate that bidders demonstrate their experience and provide references and certification from the Corken manufacturer.

The meeting also covered advancements in signage and design elements for the new school, officially named Amethyst Brook. There was uncertainty about the sign’s design, whether it would display the full name or an abbreviated version. The construction project includes lighting for the sign, but the sign itself was not finalized during the project’s planning. The committee agreed to bring options back for review, acknowledging the need for further discussions.

As the meeting progressed, invoices from various contractors were presented for approval, reflecting 58% of the total project budget, with 42% remaining. The financial breakdown included amounts owed to contractors such as Esenture Answer, Daniscoco, CTA, and Alli Testing. A new testing partner, BDH or Salis O’Brien, was onboarded to conduct envelope air tightness testing.

In a brief public comment segment, a council member mentioned a colleague’s interest from a neighboring town regarding geothermal project comparisons. The council member also acknowledged the town’s project website, which received recognition from another town constructing an elementary school for its curated and enhanced content.