A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the interim Town Manager’s proposed FY26 Capital Plan. The board examined a draft warrant article, along with an Excel spreadsheet detailing ranked items and recommended funding allocations. Notably, the available funds had been underestimated due to a larger-than-expected free cash availability. A central issue was the School Committee’s decision to vacate the TC Passos building, prompting concerns about the need to decommission two-thirds of the structure.

The discussion also touched on the Department of Revenue’s directives, which suggested that the projected capital number might need to be reduced. An inquiry was raised regarding a highlighted amount of $775,000 in free cash, which was clarified as a point of emphasis. The interim Town Manager planned to revisit funding allocations the following day. Meanwhile, the town was returning $300,000 from state grants intended for the demolition of the old primary school.

The total free cash was confirmed to be $2.2 million, with $775,000 earmarked for the capital plan, leaving a remaining $500,000. A practice of rolling over approximately 1.5% of the Omnibus budget into the next year was mentioned, though it might not align with the preferences of the incoming Town Manager or the Finance Committee.

Attention then shifted to discrepancies between the Capital Planning Committee’s rankings and the Town Manager’s recommendations. Several projects, such as the Town Hall HVAC upgrades and window replacements, were excluded from the manager’s list. This led to inquiries about specific projects not recommended for funding. The Department of Public Works (DPW) received limited funding representation, with support allocated only for a catch basin cleaning truck. This decision was based on a discussion with the DPW head, who prioritized the catch basin cleaner over a utility truck and plow.

The meeting also addressed the anticipated $15 million debt exclusion proposal for municipal buildings, though specifics on whether capital items would be included in that proposal remained unclear. Concerns were raised about the proposed financing method for the catch basin cleaner, which might be funded through a future stormwater district assessment. Uncertainty surrounded whether the utility would pass, placing the committee in a position of potential lease obligations without guaranteed funding.

The practicality of contracting out maintenance for approximately 1,300 catch basins in town was considered, but it was ultimately deemed infeasible. Attention then turned to the primary school generator, which had seen a significant cost increase from an initial estimate of under $100,000 to over $300,000. Concerns were voiced about the accuracy of cost estimates, which posed challenges in prioritizing projects.

Significant debate arose over the removal of Town Hall issues from the prioritization list. Concerns centered on essential repairs needed for the HVAC system and windows, which were in poor condition and contributing to “demolition by neglect.” Participants emphasized the necessity of addressing these repairs regardless of the building’s future use.

The committee also discussed a $75,000 requirement for decommissioning work at the Central and North Wing at TC Passos. This financial requirement would affect capital planning for the year. Other infrastructure concerns, such as the need for attention to cemetery roadways, were highlighted, with a proposal to extend the roads’ lifespan through crack sealing and patching.

The track and field complex emerged as another focal point, with concerns about its deteriorating condition. A request was made for a proposal outlining repair costs and potential revenue sources. Participants discussed the possibility of utilizing revenue from a new cell phone tower and solar installations in parking areas to offset costs. The estimated engineering costs for preparation were projected to be $75,000 to $100,000.

As the meeting progressed, participants considered the balance between academic and athletic needs, with a clear emphasis on prioritizing academics. Community use of school facilities was also noted, highlighting the fields’ significance beyond school use.

The meeting concluded with discussions on planning for future meetings and the development of a Five-Year Plan. Standardization of forms for capital planning was proposed. Participants emphasized the importance of timely communication with the new Town Manager, particularly regarding the upcoming presentation of the capital plan to the Select Board and Finance Committee.