In the heart of Southborough, Massachusetts, members of the Neary School Building Committee gathered on February 10, 2025, to tackle pressing issues surrounding the school’s renovation project. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as committee members discussed the financial implications of the project, which is projected to cost around $110 million.

The meeting began with a review of the project’s schematic report, where committee member Andrew raised concerns about the classification of certain spaces within the school. Currently, a science, technology, and engineering room is included in the learning commons, which does not qualify for reimbursement from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). The committee acknowledged the need to explore whether renaming this area could potentially change its classification and eligibility for funding.

As the discussion shifted to finances, Kathy, the finance subcommittee chair, reported on recent efforts to reduce costs. The town's share of the project has decreased from an estimated $84 million to approximately $78 million, a reduction of about $6 million since August. However, the committee is still faced with the challenge of presenting a comprehensive financial plan to the town at the upcoming May 10 meeting.

The committee is actively seeking ways to trim costs further. They discussed the possibility of adjusting the gross-up factor used in calculating square footage, which could save an estimated $3 million. Additionally, they considered removing a contingency fund for the removal of contaminated soil, which could yield further savings. The committee also questioned the necessity of a traffic study, suggesting that eliminating this expense could save an additional $50,000.

As the meeting progressed, members emphasized the importance of finalizing these financial details before submitting the project’s cost estimate to the MSBA next week. The outcome of this submission will significantly influence the town's decision-making process regarding funding and grants.

With the clock ticking, the committee is committed to refining their proposal and ensuring that the Neary School renovation project remains financially viable while meeting the educational needs of the community. The discussions held during this meeting will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the school and its facilities, reflecting the town's dedication to providing quality education for its students.