In a recent meeting of the Neary School Building Committee, members gathered to discuss the future of the school project amid rising construction costs and potential delays. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as committee members weighed the implications of postponing the project, particularly in light of economic uncertainties.

One key point raised during the discussion was the significant financial impact of delaying the project. A committee member inquired about the projected cost increase if the project were to be postponed by just one year. The response highlighted a lack of confidence in the ability to re-enter the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) process if the project is voted down in May. The current construction costs are pegged at an alarming $1,080 per square foot, and with high-profile projects like those in Brockton and Somerville consuming a large portion of the MSBA's budget, the future remains uncertain.

The committee shared insights from a similar situation in Medfield, where a school project was delayed for three years due to location issues, resulting in increased costs upon re-acceptance into the MSBA pipeline. This example served as a cautionary tale for Southborough, emphasizing the potential for escalating expenses due to inflation and the competitive nature of funding from the MSBA.

As the meeting progressed, another member raised a question about the town budget's inclusion of funds for the cleanup of the Breakneck Hill dump site, indicating that community concerns extend beyond just the school project. The discussions reflect a broader dialogue about fiscal responsibility and the need for timely decisions in the face of rising costs and community needs.

With the vote approaching in May, the committee's deliberations underscore the critical nature of the decisions ahead, not just for the Neary School but for the town's future investments and priorities. The community watches closely, aware that the choices made now will shape the educational landscape for years to come.