The Newport City Council held a regular meeting on May 22, 2024, primarily focused on the funding request for the Rogers High School building project. The meeting began with a communication from Rebecca Bolan and Louisa Bowright, co-chairs of the School Building Committee, who requested a commitment of $2.2 million by July 1 to ensure the project remains on schedule.

Following the motion to receive the communication, Bolan presented the request, emphasizing the need for the funds to secure a temporary certificate of occupancy for the school upon its opening. She noted that while the immediate request was for $2.2 million, additional funding would be necessary later in the year, although the exact amount remains uncertain. The committee is currently engaged in value engineering to reduce costs, which has raised concerns about potential compromises to the building's exterior and overall aesthetics.

Council members raised questions regarding the implications of operating under a temporary certificate of occupancy and the timeline for completing necessary work. Experts from the School Building Committee assured the council that the requested funds would allow for the completion of essential bid packages and that the building would be safe for students.

The discussion also touched on the broader financial context of the project, with councilors expressing concerns about escalating costs and the need for transparency regarding future funding requirements. The total projected cost for the school has risen significantly, with estimates now approaching $115 million, prompting discussions about the city's financial obligations and potential funding sources.

Councilor Romley highlighted the importance of ensuring the project does not fail, emphasizing the need for the council to support the funding request while also demanding more detailed information about future financial needs. The council acknowledged the challenges posed by rising construction costs and the necessity of maintaining a focus on delivering a safe and functional school for students.

In conclusion, the Newport City Council's meeting underscored the urgency of securing funding for the Rogers High School project while navigating the complexities of budget management and community expectations. The council plans to continue discussions on the funding strategy in the coming weeks, aiming to finalize commitments that will allow the project to proceed without further delays.