Debate over centralizing city and school facilities: officials plan November talks as members clash over oversight and staffing

Superintendent Skinner told the subcommittee that he and the city manager have discussed a potential merger of the city's and the school department's facilities functions and that staff will convene in November to flesh out details.

"The city manager and I have had some really good discussions about this topic," Skinner said, describing plans for a meeting with support staff in November.

The proposal prompted a sharp debate among committee members. Paul Underwood, representing city facilities, argued against immediate centralization and said the school department should retain separation so it can push back when work is delayed. "There has to be some separation because we don't always agree," Underwood said, warning that hiring expensive supervisory positions before tradespeople are in place would not solve day‑to‑day maintenance gaps.

Corey Robinson, speaking for the city side, said ownership matters: "Ultimately, the city of Lowell is responsible...we own these buildings," he said, and argued that a centralized facilities model could allow the city to more effectively plan capital work and control rising repair costs for properties it owns.

Both sides agreed some coordination is needed. Underwood pressed for staffing changes focused on tradespeople (plumbers, HVAC technicians) rather than a high‑paid plant manager; Robinson emphasized cost growth from the status quo and suggested stronger city steps if intergovernmental agreements fail.

What happens next: superintendent and city manager will convene staff in November for a fuller discussion of structure, roles and timelines. Committee members asked for detail on who will attend and for a plan that addresses trades staffing and budget impacts before structural changes are finalized.