The Westerly School Committee meeting on November 6, 2024, featured heated discussions regarding financial accountability and project funding. A significant point of contention was the ongoing financial obligations related to a sports field project, which has drawn criticism from committee members and community members alike.

One speaker expressed frustration over the Town Council's handling of funds, claiming that the council had violated its own resolutions by approving payments to FieldTurf without prior authorization. The speaker highlighted that a payment of over $380,000 was made before the council had officially voted on it, raising concerns about the legality and transparency of the council's financial decisions.

The speaker further criticized the council for failing to secure promised funding, stating that the community had been misled about the availability of financial support. They argued that the council's actions amounted to misappropriation of funds and negligence, suggesting that some members could face legal repercussions for their roles in the situation.

The discussion underscored a broader concern about taxpayer trust and the management of public funds. The speaker emphasized that the council should not use any fund balance to cover the outstanding debts owed to FieldTurf, insisting that the council must either find a way to fulfill its financial commitments or face the consequences.

As the meeting concluded, the implications of these financial disputes were clear: the community's trust in local governance is at stake, and the council must address these issues transparently to restore confidence among taxpayers.