As the sun began to rise over Southborough, the Neary School Building Committee convened on February 20, 2025, to tackle pressing matters concerning the future of the local school. With the clock striking 8:42 AM, committee members gathered to review past meeting minutes and discuss the next steps in their ambitious project.

The meeting kicked off with a unanimous approval of the minutes from the previous gathering, setting a collaborative tone for the day. The committee swiftly moved on to a critical agenda item: the schematic design report. This report, a vital component of the project, was presented for approval before being submitted to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). After a brief discussion, the committee voted unanimously to authorize Kanska USA Building as the owner’s project manager to submit the design on behalf of the district.

However, the conversation soon shifted to the financial implications of the project. Acknowledging the recent fluctuations in pricing, committee members emphasized the importance of transparent communication with the community. A proposal emerged to have the finance and communications subcommittee chairs collaborate on a project update that would outline the latest schematic design and estimated funding. This proactive approach aims to keep residents informed and engaged as the project progresses.

The committee agreed on a streamlined process for drafting the update, allowing for feedback without necessitating a formal meeting unless significant concerns arose. This decision reflects a commitment to efficiency while ensuring that community voices are heard.

As the meeting drew to a close, members discussed future gatherings, hinting at a shift in focus towards communication planning as they prepare for the next phases of the project. With a sense of purpose and unity, the committee adjourned at 8:51 AM, leaving behind a clear path forward for the Neary School project and a promise of continued community engagement.