The Neary School Building Committee made significant strides during its meeting on February 13, 2025, as members approved the minutes from the previous meeting and began discussions on the project's schematic design and financial implications.

The committee unanimously approved the meeting minutes, setting a collaborative tone for the evening. The primary focus quickly shifted to the schematic design, with committee member Katie providing updates on the project's progress. She confirmed that the design narrative and drawings had been circulated for review, although some members had not yet received them. The committee agreed to distribute the materials promptly to allow for feedback before moving forward.

A critical discussion arose regarding the project's financial aspects. Kathy, the chair of the finance subcommittee, expressed frustration over delays in receiving necessary financial documents, which hindered her ability to prepare adequately for the meeting. She emphasized the importance of timely communication, stating that all financial documents should be shared with her simultaneously with the main committee chair to ensure effective oversight.

The committee is exploring options to reduce the projected town debt, which is estimated at approximately $69.5 million. Members discussed various strategies to lower this figure, with a focus on understanding the potential tax impact on residents over the next five years. The committee plans to present its findings and recommendations at the upcoming May 10 meeting, aiming to provide clarity on how the project will affect local taxes.

As the meeting concluded, the committee underscored the importance of collaboration and timely information sharing to ensure the success of the Neary School project. The next steps will involve further discussions on the financial strategies and finalizing the schematic design, with the goal of keeping the community informed and engaged throughout the process.