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District and school committee finalize outreach for $1.5 million Marguerite Small feasibility warrant
Summary
The committee reviewed materials for a proposed $1.5 million feasibility study warrant article for Marguerite Small, recommended using free cash and highlighted MSBA reimbursement potential (minimum 57.1%). An open house for community review was scheduled for Nov. 5.
School committee members and district leaders discussed outreach and messaging for a proposed $1.5 million warrant article to fund a Marguerite Small feasibility study at the Oct. 20 meeting.
Committee members said the fact sheet under development will explain what a feasibility study covers — options such as renovating the existing building, expanding other facilities, acquiring an alternate site or building a new facility — and why the district is requesting $1.5 million. The presenters noted that feasibility studies for similar projects have ranged from about $1.2 million to $2.5 million, and that the town administration recommended using free cash rather than debt for the request.
District staff said MSBA (Massachusetts School Building Authority) participation can provide significant reimbursement; the presenters cited a minimum reimbursement rate of 57.1% for eligible costs if the project is accepted by MSBA. Committee members said the final warrant language was wordy because it reflected MSBA requirements and town counsel input and that presenters will explain the document at town meeting.
Officials emphasized the importance of turnout at the Dennis and Yarmouth town meetings where the warrant will be considered. The committee reported plans to hold a public open house to show the school and answer questions; an open house was scheduled for Nov. 5 at 5:30 p.m., prior to a PTO meeting, and the district said additional communications would be distributed to both towns.
No formal vote on the article was recorded at the meeting; committee members described steps for community outreach, coordination with town officials and continued review by the capital committee.
