Lemontown Mayor Mazzarella proposes $112M for new Fallbrook Elementary School funding

Leominster City Council has taken significant steps towards enhancing local education infrastructure by approving a series of financial appropriations during their recent meeting on May 27, 2025. The council has proposed a loan order for $112.3 million aimed at designing and constructing a new Fallbrook Elementary School, which will replace the existing facility deemed inadequate for current educational needs.

Mayor Dean J. Mazzarella presented the loan order, emphasizing the necessity of the project to meet state requirements for school facilities. The new school is expected to serve the community for at least 50 years, with funding partially supported by a grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). The city anticipates that the MSBA will reimburse approximately 56% of eligible costs, although the final reimbursement rate may vary based on project specifics.

In addition to the school project, the council discussed several budget reallocations, including a $24,700 transfer to the landfill account and a $5,000 allocation for the dog officer account, both sourced from the rubbish account. These appropriations are part of the council's ongoing efforts to manage city resources effectively.

The council also addressed the financial implications of the school project, with discussions around potential funding strategies, including the use of local meals tax revenue and the possibility of a debt exclusion to manage increased costs. The estimated impact on taxpayers was also a key topic, with projections indicating a modest increase in average tax bills if additional funding is required.

As the council moves forward, a public hearing will be scheduled to further discuss the school project and its funding. The decisions made during this meeting are crucial for the future of Leominster's educational facilities, reflecting the city's commitment to providing quality education for its students. The council's proactive approach aims to ensure that the necessary resources are in place to support this significant investment in the community's future.