The Town of Southborough, Massachusetts, held a joint meeting on April 4, 2025, to discuss a proposed $108.5 million school project, which is set to be presented at the upcoming Town Meeting. The project is expected to receive approximately $35 million in funding from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), pending a formal vote scheduled for April 30.

During the meeting, officials outlined the financial structure of the project, indicating that the town's share would amount to about $68 million, with an estimated annual debt service of $4 million. They anticipate operational savings from the new facility, which could reduce the net cost to taxpayers to approximately $703 per average residential tax bill once the project is fully implemented.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of geothermal energy in the building's design, which is projected to attract around $5 million in state and federal grants. Of this, $1 million is already secured through state funding, while $4 million is contingent on federal incentives that are part of a larger Congressional package.

Officials emphasized the rigorous diligence undertaken by the School Administration and consultants to bring the project costs down from an initial estimate of $123 million to the current proposal. They presented comparisons with other communities to illustrate the project's efficiency, acknowledging the unique circumstances of Southborough.

The meeting also touched on staffing considerations, with a focus on managing attrition as the new facility opens. The Superintendent noted that the district is planning for future staffing needs while considering potential retirements among educators in the coming years.

Overall, the meeting provided a comprehensive overview of the proposed school project, its financial implications, and the anticipated benefits for the community, setting the stage for further discussions at the Town Meeting.