Capital Planning Committee prioritizes $338K in urgent town projects

The Millis Finance Committee convened on March 26, 2025, to discuss critical capital needs for the town, with a focus on upcoming projects slated for the May Town Meeting. The committee reviewed a report from the Capital Planning Committee, which outlined seven proposed projects totaling approximately $338,000 in high-priority needs, alongside additional medium and lower-priority requests.

Among the highest priorities identified were a new vehicle for animal control, essential upgrades for the fire department, HVAC repairs for the library, and a special education van for the school. The animal control vehicle, which is outdated, is expected to be shared with the neighboring town of Medway, effectively splitting costs. The fire department's requests include new radio box receivers and a utility vehicle, both deemed critical for operational efficiency.

The committee also highlighted the ongoing renovation project for the Middle High School, with updated estimates bringing the total capital needs for the town to around $123 million. This figure reflects a comprehensive list of projects, with the school representing a significant portion of the overall budget.

In addition to the capital projects, discussions included the potential acquisition of new software to enhance tracking and reporting of capital expenditures. The Finance Committee expressed support for this initiative, emphasizing its importance for better financial management and transparency.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members acknowledged the fluid nature of the capital planning process, noting that priorities can shift based on emerging needs and available funding. The next steps involve finalizing the report and presenting it to the Select Board, which will play a crucial role in determining the funding and implementation of these projects.

This meeting underscored the Finance Committee's commitment to addressing the town's infrastructure and operational needs, ensuring that Millis continues to provide essential services to its residents.