The meeting’s central focus was on the roof replacement project for the Narragansett Regional High School and Middle School. The MSBA will provide a grant covering 59% of the reimbursable costs, leaving the district responsible for $4,752,853 of the $10,864,548 total construction cost. The funding will be split between Templeton and Phillipston, with Templeton paying 85% and Phillipston 15%. This allocation reflects the age and condition of various building sections, with the high school requiring more extensive repairs. The committee’s vote authorizes the district to borrow the necessary funds, with plans for a 20-year loan bond to manage the debt.

Further discussions highlighted the financial decision-making process, including the need for both towns to vote in support of the project. Templeton will address the issue in its upcoming town meeting, followed by a special election, while Phillipston plans a town meeting without requiring a debt exclusion. The meeting also covered the project’s budgetary considerations, assuring that anticipated costs, inflation, and tariffs have been accounted for to prevent overruns.

Additionally, the committee reviewed the district’s excess and deficiency budget, which was notably higher this year due to a $470,000 refund received from the disbanded Minuteman Nashoba Health Group. This refund increased the excess and deficiency funds to $898,087, providing a financial cushion for future budgets. However, it was emphasized that the funds would remain untouched unless necessary for current fiscal year shortfalls.

In concluding financial matters, the committee agreed to cover up to $5,400 for Templeton and $1,100 for Phillipston for special town meetings and elections required for the MSBA roof project. This decision is consistent with the district’s practice of supporting towns with costs directly related to district-beneficial items.