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<br />Select Board <br />March 16,2026 <br />Minutes <br /> <br />standards and stated that the explanation in the article was lacking; he suggested that a <br />more detailed, itemized explanation—especially focused on safety—would help build <br />public support. <br />Selectman Cotton agreed, reiterating that a more in-depth explanation of the project <br />scope, including fire suppression and safety improvements, would provide better clarity for <br />residents. <br />Selectwoman Kelley Wilson noted that fire suppression is not currently present in all areas <br />of the building and cautioned that describing the school as “safe” is subjective. <br />Resident Cathy Lewis explained that the Liberty Wing, added in 1993/1994, already <br />includes fire suppression, while the original building did not require it at the time of <br />construction. Lewis noted that this is the third and final phase of the project, and that <br />engineers identified the need for significant electrical system upgrades. She clarified that <br />the majority of the work is electrical in nature and that, to her understanding, HVAC units <br />will not be removed. She also pointed out that the article may create a misconception by <br />presenting the project as a comfort upgrade rather than a safety-driven initiative, <br />emphasizing awareness of the financial impact on taxpayers. <br />Selectman Weeden responded that this type of clarification—highlighting code <br />compliance and safety upgrades for older portions of the building—is the language he <br />would like to see included. <br />Selectman Cotton reiterated that the town materials currently describe the $11.5 million <br />primarily as an HVAC project and expressed concern about that framing. <br />There was a request for Catherine Laurent, DPW Director, to return with additional details. <br />Chair Wyman-Colombo suggested that Catherine Laurent provide further information on <br />the overall condition of the building to help inform the discussion. <br />Selectman Weeden amended his motion to table Article 24. <br />Motion seconded by Selectman Cotton. <br />Vote: 5-0 Unanimous <br />Roll Call Vote <br />Selectwoman Wyman-Colombo-yes <br />Selectman Weeden-yes <br />18 <br /> <br /> <br />