The most urgent discussion revolved around the elementary school’s air conditioning upgrades. The committee emphasized the need for mini and rooftop units and electrical enhancements to support year-round programming. Eversource is currently assessing possible funding sources, and collaboration with the town’s energy consultant is underway. The hope is that support from Senator Rodri and potential funding from external sources will expedite the project’s completion. However, it was noted that the project must still be placed on the Capital Improvement Planning Committee (CIPC) list for fiscal year 2027.

The air conditioning project, estimated at $1.1 million, is part of a broader strategy to secure external funding, especially given that some federal funding sources have recently diminished. A committee member highlighted the importance of strategically positioning the project within the CIPC request framework to align with historical funding patterns. They expressed concern over the large funding figure and suggested that external funding could alter its positioning on the list. The energy consultant reportedly remains optimistic about obtaining grants for the project and other town initiatives.

Equally critical was the need for evacuation chairs, identified as essential for the safety of students with specific needs. Current models are outdated and inadequate, requiring up to seven minutes for operation by two people. Eight locations in the new school have been pinpointed for these chairs, and collaboration with the fire department is ongoing to secure chairs that better meet current safety requirements. The estimated cost for these chairs is also $1.1 million, and the committee is considering alternative funding avenues before revisiting the request with the CIPC.

The necessity of presenting a strong case for both the air conditioning and evacuation chair projects was underscored. Members discussed the importance of prioritizing these funding requests over others, debating which projects should take precedence. The committee ultimately ranked the air conditioning and playground projects as top priorities, followed by safety camera installations, a dump truck request, and an additional adult bathroom. The rationale for prioritizing the AC and playground projects lies in their long-discussed necessity and the potential support from the Community Preservation Committee and the recreation department.

The discussion on infrastructure needs also included security camera expansions, with a focus on enhancing coverage at the elementary school and adjacent athletic fields. The estimated cost for this addition is approximately $225,000. The committee acknowledged the evolving requirements of various programs that necessitate more cameras each year.

Additionally, there was a proposal to address other funding sources for infrastructure projects, including maintenance needs like a new dump truck. The existing 2001 GMC model is plagued with issues such as gas leaks and structural deterioration, prompting a projected $70,000 investment for a new vehicle. A portable toolbox was added to a new truck acquired previously, and the only remaining vehicle request is for the dump truck.

Discussion also turned to potential funding mechanisms for lighting and repairs to baseball and softball fields. Grants and support from the booster club were also considered as potential funding sources for batting cages.

The committee’s deliberations emphasized the importance of addressing infrastructure needs through strategic prioritization and exploration of external funding opportunities. As the meeting concluded, members moved to vote on the proposed rankings for capital improvement requests for fiscal year 2027. The motion to approve the items as ranked was seconded and carried, with a roll call vote confirming unanimous support.

Routine matters were briefly addressed, including a reminder of an upcoming policy session and a regular school committee meeting. The chair requested committee members submit agenda items promptly. A question about calendar invites for the policy meeting highlighted the importance of scheduling logistics.