The Newport City Council held a regular meeting on May 22, 2024, focusing primarily on the ongoing construction project for Rogers High School. The meeting addressed critical funding needs and project updates, with council members expressing concerns over escalating costs and project management.

The discussion began with representatives from the school department outlining the need for an additional $2.2 million by July 1 to ensure the timely completion of the school. They emphasized that this funding is crucial for obtaining a temporary certificate of occupancy, which would allow students to use the building while further work is completed. The representatives noted that while they are working on value engineering to reduce costs, they are cautious about compromising the building's exterior, which will be visible to the public.

Council members raised questions about the implications of a temporary certificate of occupancy and the potential for additional funding requests in the future. Concerns were voiced regarding the transparency of the project's financial management, with some councilors expressing frustration over the lack of clarity on future funding needs, which could reach up to $6.4 million.

The conversation also touched on the historical context of the project, with councilors recalling previous commitments made to limit funding requests. They highlighted the importance of maintaining educational programs and ensuring that the school meets the needs of the community, despite the challenges posed by rising construction costs and unforeseen expenses related to site remediation.

Councilor Romley emphasized the necessity of completing the school project, stating that the city cannot afford to let it fail. He called for more detailed information on future funding requirements and expressed a desire for a more efficient approach to managing construction costs, suggesting that private industry practices could offer insights into reducing expenses.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from council members to support the immediate funding request while seeking further clarification on the project's financial trajectory. The council acknowledged the need for a collaborative approach to ensure that the school project is completed on time and within budget, ultimately prioritizing the educational needs of Newport's students.