Millis committees confirm MSBA reimbursement, approve $3,500 informational mailer before town votes

The Town of Millis School Building Committee received an update Oct. 15 showing the approved school project at $125,000,000 with an MSBA reimbursement of $68,200,000, an effective reimbursement rate the presenter calculated at 54.6%. Speaker 2 told members the program initially projected a 59% rate and said scope reductions — excluding items such as athletic fields and a larger gym — helped preserve the MSBA contribution.

Why it matters: The reimbursement figure directly affects the project’s net cost to residents. Speaker 2 emphasized that final tax impact and the project’s advance depend on two public votes: a two‑thirds vote at town meeting and a majority vote on the ballot. The committee noted the need for careful public information that explains the dual‑vote process without advocating for a particular outcome.

What the committee approved: After reviewing outreach options and vendor quotes, the committee voted to approve a not‑to‑exceed $3,500 amount for an informational mailer to be mailed townwide. The motion was made by Speaker 1, seconded by Speaker 3, and carried by voice vote. Committee members discussed mailing formats, advised including PO boxes (raising the distribution to about 4,100 addresses), and recommended using a tracked drop service (EDDM) and coated stock for better presentation.

Legal review and wording limits: Members repeatedly stressed that committee materials must remain informational rather than advocacy. Speaker 2 said the mailer and other outreach materials will be submitted to the campaign finance office and the ethics commission for review before distribution. Committee members suggested plain wording (for example, writing out “two‑thirds”) to reduce confusion.

Public engagement and timing: The project team posted last night’s forum materials and renderings on the project website and added a banner explaining the two‑vote requirement. Speaker 2 reported 44 attendees at the recent public forum and outlined upcoming outreach events, including a hybrid public forum at the high school and a Senior Center presentation. Members urged continued updates to the website so residents who do not attend forums can access the rationale and cost information.

What’s next: The committee will finalize mailer wording with the design team, seek the campaign finance and ethics reviews, print the mailer, and distribute it ahead of the Nov. 10 town meeting and Dec. 8 ballot funding vote. Additional outreach — display boards and floor‑plan printouts — will be circulated around town as permitted.