Select Board members on March 4 expressed concern about language in a draft regional agreement that would leave Wilburham as owner of Wilburham Middle School while making Hampden responsible for capital improvements based on the ratio of students in the building.

A Select Board member said the draft agreement would keep ownership with Wilburham while making capital costs the responsibility of regional partners according to student ratios, and that Hampden’s share was currently about 19.6 percent. Board members referenced a 2015 assessment of the building that identified multiple deficiencies and said they believe many of those issues remain unaddressed, though speakers also noted Wilburham has since replaced the roof and motors on air handlers.

Why it matters: board members said a regional proposal that appears to obligate Hampden to a portion of capital work could influence voter sentiment about other town actions (including the proposed TWB move) and raise political resistance at town meeting. Board members asked for independent assessment and clearer cost language before any town meeting vote on regional arrangements.

Process and timing: staff noted that any plan affecting school facilities requires approval by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), and that the DESE review process is lengthy. Board members said they are unsure whether the school committee will bring a finalized proposal to an upcoming town meeting, and asked for assessments and clearer financial terms if it is advanced for a vote. No formal action was taken at the Select Board meeting.

Board members asked staff to seek an updated condition assessment and to clarify the exact financial commitments the draft regional agreement would impose on Hampden before voters consider related warrant articles.