With the future of Medford High School at the forefront, the committee examined numerous potential sites, including Place dead Park and Tufts Park. The viability of these sites sparked debate, as concerns were raised about the community impact and the financial burden of acquiring new properties. Medford’s limited open spaces and the high cost of real estate further complicated the search for a suitable location.

The committee also considered the option of co-locating Andrews Middle School with the high school at a more centralized location. This raised additional questions about land availability, the impact on existing facilities, and the effects on student populations and programs. The potential need for a conservation restriction emerged as a concern, should the high school be relocated to a site that requires such measures.

A major topic of the meeting was the budget for the feasibility study, which is estimated to cost between $2.25 and $3 million. The city would be responsible for funding the study upfront, with the hope of later receiving approximately 52% reimbursement from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). Emphasizing the importance of a thorough understanding of the project, committee members discussed the significance of hiring an Owner’s Project Manager (OPM). The OPM’s role is critical in setting the city’s goals and ensuring that the project aligns with the community’s objectives. The need for clear language in the upcoming city council vote and cooperation with the Regional Planning Agency for accurate population projections was also highlighted.

Furthermore, the Medford School Committee talked about reaching out to other communities for insights and guidance on similar building projects. Learning from other districts’ experiences with new high school constructions could provide valuable lessons and help avoid potential pitfalls.

As the meeting wrapped up, the members underscored the importance of considering all possibilities and thoroughly understanding the implications of each potential decision. The conversation revealed a commitment to careful planning and due diligence as the city embarks on this significant endeavor.