Southborough Town Approves $108M for New Margaret Neary School Construction

The Southborough Special Town Meeting held on May 10, 2025, focused on a significant proposal to allocate $108,517,205 for the design, construction, and equipping of the Margaret A. Neary School. This new facility is intended to serve as a four-grade school, addressing critical infrastructure needs that have arisen due to decades of neglect.

The proposal, presented by the Neary Building Committee, highlighted the urgent need for updates to the existing school, which has not undergone substantial repairs since its construction in the 1970s. Key issues identified include outdated electrical systems, roofing problems, non-compliance with safety standards, and the absence of a fire suppression system. The committee emphasized that the school’s useful life has come to an end, necessitating this investment to ensure a safe and effective learning environment for students.

The funding plan includes potential grants from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), which could cover up to 46.76% of eligible project costs. However, any expenses exceeding the grant amount would fall solely on the town. The town treasurer, with the select board's approval, is authorized to borrow the necessary funds under Massachusetts General Laws.

During the meeting, Jason Malinowski, chair of the Neary Building Committee, explained the extensive process that led to this proposal. The committee conducted demographic studies and deliberated various options, ultimately concluding that consolidating schools was not feasible based on enrollment projections. They also considered the educational implications of moving fifth graders to the Trottier Middle School but found it unsuitable for elementary education.

The committee's focus on the Neary site was based on its central location and potential for shared resources with the nearby Trotter School. The proposal aims not only to enhance educational facilities but also to address broader community needs.

The meeting concluded with a call for an affirmative vote to move forward with the project, which is seen as a critical step in improving Southborough's educational infrastructure. The outcome of this vote will determine the town's ability to secure funding and proceed with the necessary renovations to the Neary School.