The Southborough Special Town Meeting held on May 10, 2025, focused on the future of the Southborough Public Schools, particularly the proposed construction of a new Neary school. The meeting featured discussions on the financial implications of the project and alternative solutions to meet the educational needs of the community.

During the meeting, committee member Mr. Malinowski emphasized the importance of moving forward with the proposal, stating that delaying renovations or expansions would ultimately lead to higher costs in the future. He expressed gratitude to those who participated in the public forums, highlighting the community's engagement in the decision-making process.

A significant moment came when resident Patricia Burns Fiore proposed a motion for a private ballot vote on Article 1, arguing that it would yield a more honest outcome given the contentious nature of the discussions. This motion was noted for consideration later in the meeting.

Gene Carmelak, another resident, presented an alternative to the proposed new school, arguing that the existing facilities could adequately serve the student population without incurring the projected $108 million cost. He pointed out that the current schools, including Finn, Woodward, and Trottier, have sufficient capacity to meet educational needs. Carmelak raised concerns about the financial burden on taxpayers, citing recent tax increases and potential hidden costs associated with the new school proposal.

Carmelak also highlighted environmental risks associated with building the new school near an old landfill, questioning the safety of placing children in proximity to a potentially hazardous site. He referenced a report suggesting that relocating fifth graders to Trottier could meet occupancy and space requirements while minimizing student transitions.

The discussions at the meeting underscored the community's commitment to ensuring quality education while balancing financial and environmental considerations. As the meeting progressed, attendees were encouraged to voice their opinions and ask questions about the proposal and its alternatives, reflecting the ongoing dialogue about the future of education in Southborough.