The most notable discussion centered around the Passive House project registration, an initiative aimed at enhancing the sustainability of the new Revere High School. This certification involves a thorough verification process to ensure that the building systems perform according to energy-efficient standards. The registration fee of $50,150 was highlighted as part of the planned budget, with the council emphasizing the importance of this accreditation alongside the LEED certification required by the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). It was noted that Passive House certification offers an independent layer of verification, with professionals conducting on-site assessments to confirm system performance. Questions were raised regarding the potential for accessing additional environmental grants through this certification, though no definitive answers were provided during the meeting.

In addition to the Passive House certification, the council approved a $30,000 payment to National Grid. This payment serves as a deposit for an engineering power study essential for connecting the new high school to the electrical grid. Given the site’s lack of significant electrical service for over a decade, this study is a critical step in determining the necessary infrastructure upgrades. The council anticipates that the final connection costs will exceed the initial deposit, but sufficient funds remain within the budget line for utility company fees to cover future expenses.