The most pressing discussion centered around the district’s infrastructure challenges, particularly the need to replace failing network closet mini-split systems at Brooks and Medford High. These systems, which are 20 years old, are either completely non-functional or nearing failure. Effective climate control is important for maintaining the network infrastructure, which generates significant heat. The committee is developing a proposal to secure substantial e-rate funding, necessitating an upfront investment of $150,000 to $200,000. This funding will cover networking infrastructure but not the critical cooling systems, highlighting the need to prioritize mini-split replacements in the upcoming fiscal year.

The committee also addressed widespread roofing issues, focusing on a specific problem with the roof-wall connection involving the removal of three courses of bricks. The repair cost is estimated at $80,000, with an additional $20,000 for construction management. An infrared scan revealed a higher saturation than initially assessed, leading to recommendations for either roof reconditioning, costing $1.4 to $1.6 million, or a full replacement at $2.8 to $3.0 million. The urgency of addressing these issues is underscored by their impact on the structural integrity and safety of the school buildings.

Security upgrades formed another critical aspect of the meeting, with discussions about installing keyless locks, intercom systems, and integrated camera doorbells across various schools. The proposed upgrades, estimated at $260,000, would enhance security by allowing building leadership to visually verify visitors. The broader security budget is approximately $1.9 million, emphasizing an integrated approach to cover all areas of the Medford Public Schools with security cameras and deploy vape sensors in middle school bathrooms.

The committee evaluated playground renovations, particularly at the Mlin school, and recognized that all playgrounds will eventually require updates. The Roberts and Mck schools are flagged as priorities, with the Roberts school facing unique spatial constraints. A member highlighted the Roberts as the only “landlocked” elementary school. The committee acknowledged the need for a design study to ensure the renovations meet the students’ needs without dramatically increasing costs due to land limitations.

The discussion on space constraints extended to the possibility of acquiring nearby properties to alleviate overcrowding, particularly at the Roberts school. With a recently permitted property now for sale, the committee expressed interest in exploring potential collaborations or acquisitions to expand school facilities. This idea aligns with creative solutions like “double-decker” playgrounds to maximize existing space.

One focus was the necessity of ADA compliance in school facilities, with costs estimated between $300,000 and $600,000. Despite previous unsuccessful grant applications due to technical issues, the committee discussed prioritizing these projects and exploring both grant opportunities and independent funding solutions to ensure timely compliance.

The meeting also revisited the importance of effective communication and collaboration with local and state partners to navigate funding challenges and streamline project execution. The committee acknowledged the Massachusetts School Building Authority’s accelerated repair window as a potential funding source for essential repairs, emphasizing the need for clear financial mechanisms and bundled presentations to the full committee.