Portsmouth School Committee approves septic and roof contracts, tables transportation resolution

The Portsmouth School Committee on April 8 voted unanimously to award two capital contracts and approved a series of routine motions while tabling a proposed student transportation resolution.

Superintendent Doctor Kenworthy presented a recommendation from the Capital Subcommittee to award a public bid for required septic repairs at Hathaway to East Coast Construction for $28,326. The committee discussed logistics — including whether work would affect the playground — and approved the contract by a 7–0 voice vote. "I don't think it'll close the playground," Kenworthy said, explaining the work location relative to the building.

The committee then considered bids to repair and replace sections of the Portsmouth High School roof. Superintendent Kenworthy said five bids were received and described two pricing options: a base 20‑year roof and an add‑alternate 30‑year roof that adds an extra layer. Kenworthy told the committee that Commercial Roofing and Contracting was the lowest bidder and that the district recommended the 30‑year add‑alternate if funding could be secured. "The last step in this process will be getting a Town Council approval for the funding," Kenworthy said. Senator George, a member who spoke in favor of the longer warranty, said, "I am a fan of the 30 year roof" and described the 30‑year system as a two‑ply application that offers better durability.

Committee members discussed financing, noting the work may bridge fiscal years and that the district could pursue emergency recovery funding from the state. The committee voted 7–0 to award the roof work to Commercial Roofing and Contracting with a strong recommendation for the 30‑year option; final funding was left to the Town Council.

Votes at a glance - Seal executive session minutes — Motion to seal; approved unanimously, 7–0 (motion: seal executive minutes). - Approve March 25 minutes — Approved unanimously, 7–0. - Approve consent agenda — Approved unanimously, 7–0. - Approve 2025–26 meeting schedule (moved off Veterans Day to Nov. 12) — Approved unanimously, 7–0. - Award Hathaway septic contract to East Coast Construction ($28,326) — Approved unanimously, 7–0. - Award Portsmouth High School roof bid to Commercial Roofing and Contracting with recommendation for 30‑year option; funding contingent on Town Council — Approved unanimously, 7–0. - Table student transportation resolution pending state legislation — Motion to table adopted unanimously, 7–0.

The committee also confirmed it will seek Town Council approval for roof funding and noted the district may apply for emergency recovery funds to help spread cost across fiscal years. The meeting closed after routine calendar reminders and an adjournment motion.