Committee refers $11.4 million borrowing and orders full cost report for Old Everett High School

The Everett City Ways and Means Committee referred a request to appropriate $11.4 million by borrowing for improvements at the Old Everett High School to the full City Council and asked the administration to provide a full accounting of costs tied to the building.

Councilor Robert VanCampen moved that the full Council hold a special meeting on Monday, March 4, so the broader body can consider the proposal and related issues. The motion to recommend referral to the City Council for a March 4 special meeting carried on a voice vote.

Angelo Febbo, director of facility maintenance, presented a line‑item breakdown of 2023 costs for the building (identified in his remarks as 548 Broadway). Febbo said National Grid electric charges run roughly $9,000 a month (about $112,000/year), gas costs about $30,342/year, supplier (Direct Energy and NRG) charges approximately $103,000 and $33,000, respectively, and the industrial boiler rental (emergency mobile boiler) accounts for about $122,000. Febbo said the city receives roughly $154,000 in solar credits that reduce gross costs; after subtracting credits, Febbo estimated net annual costs of about $497,000 for 2023.

Committee members asked whether the wellness center on site contributes revenue; Febbo said wellness center revenue is restricted to the Recreation Revolving Fund and he will provide amounts. A councilor raised concerns about continued spending on the building and reported prior notices of asbestos and mold; the Chair said those condition and remediation questions will be addressed at the March 4 special meeting with the appropriate experts present.

A committee member also asked about insurance coverage for the property; Febbo deferred to legal counsel for details on insurance valuation. The committee approved referring the items to the March 4 special meeting and will hear experts and further cost details then.