School Committee Approves $324,950 for Clayville Elementary Fire Alarm Upgrades

The Scituate Town Council convened on August 14, 2025, to discuss significant funding decisions impacting local schools and infrastructure. A key resolution approved during the meeting was the allocation of $324,950 for fire alarm upgrades at Clayville Elementary School. This funding will be sourced from a $3.5 million bond issued for school capital projects, highlighting the town's commitment to enhancing safety in educational facilities.

The decision to approve the funding followed a detailed discussion about the project's costs and the necessity for additional fire alarm devices. Council members learned that the project initially went out to bid, with Commercial Electrical awarded the contract. However, upon further inspection, it was discovered that an area above a corridor ceiling was not accessible as previously thought, necessitating the installation of extra devices. This change order, approved just prior to the meeting, added $20,000 to the overall project cost.

Council members emphasized the importance of utilizing bond funds effectively to meet project timelines and IRS guidelines. The school department requested this shift in funding to alleviate cash flow pressures, ensuring that the town can maintain its financial commitments while adhering to regulatory requirements. The council noted that nearly $1 million in projects still need to be designated for bond funding, underscoring the urgency of these financial decisions.

In addition to the Clayville project, the council discussed other ongoing initiatives funded through the bond, including a $500,000 grant for a North Scituate water filtration project. These discussions reflect the town's proactive approach to managing its capital projects and ensuring that essential services are funded and delivered efficiently.

As the council moves forward, the focus remains on meeting community needs while navigating the complexities of funding and project management. The decisions made during this meeting are expected to have a lasting impact on the safety and infrastructure of Scituate's educational facilities.