Martin and Waddington projects move forward; committee tables $82,570 equipment award

The school committee heard detailed construction and maintenance updates for several projects and delayed final action on a capital equipment award so members could review the full bid documentation.

Facility staff reported steady progress: Martin Middle School accepted steel and has an installed elevator shaft with a construction turnover targeted for Aug. 22; Waddington’s phase 1 work and classroom infill were described as advancing with ADA accessibility returns; Riverside Middle School’s media center and science rooms remain in progress with some items slated to finish after school opens.

Committee members raised moisture and drainage issues at a lower-level classroom where temporary flooring was installed to open the space; staff said a permanent solution (sealing the concrete slab and new flooring) will be addressed during phase 2 next summer. Staff also summarized warranty coverage for track work and discussed documentation availability for punch-list items.

On procurement, the building committee and finance staff recommended awarding the material-handling equipment RFP to RS Equipment for $82,570 based on rubric scoring and price, noting the equipment would be used primarily for snow removal and multiple functions. Several committee members asked for the RFP packet and scoring rubric to be provided to the full committee before an award. Speaker 2 moved to table the award until that information is circulated; the motion to table was seconded and carried.

The committee approved an updated building committee membership list and approved a separate settlement motion later in the meeting.