Council rejects transfer of former Oak Haven School care and control amid school budget concerns

Coventry —s The Town Council voted 5-0 on Jan. 14 to reject a resolution that would have transferred care and control of the former Oak Haven School from the town to the Coventry School Department.

The resolution—s sponsor said the school department currently uses most of the building for staff and storage and that transferring care and control would save the town a share of operating costs. Supporters noted the school committee had approved the request and the move would not transfer ownership, only day-to-day custody and control.

Several council members opposed the transfer because of the unresolved school deficit and competing town priorities. "The reason why I rejected it ... was because right now in the situation that the school department is in, here we are putting more money onto your budget, and, you know, I don't think you're gonna be able to pay it. So, until you guys figure out what to rectify that budget, I I reject this motion," Councilwoman Capaldi said.

Other council members echoed the view that the timing was inappropriate while the town and school department are addressing audit findings and a growing accumulated deficit. After a motion to disapprove was seconded, the council voted by roll call: Brown, Pasquale, Capaldi, Copley and Vice President Verducci all voted yes to disapprove, and the motion to reject passed 5-0.

What—s next: With the rejection, the town retains formal custody and care of the Oak Haven building. Council and school officials did not set a timetable to revisit the item; officials indicated the council may reconsider when the district's fiscal position is clearer.