Staff presented the committee with the monthly school construction and HVAC report on Dec. 3, covering rooftop units, boiler replacements, chiller work and project phasing across multiple schools while previewing potential rooftop solar financing.

Henry (construction project lead) reported nine rooftop units installed at Brookside Elementary (three still under maintenance), a completed boiler replacement and ductwork underway at Rowayton Elementary, removal and piping work for a new chiller at Brian McMahon (pad pending rebar delivery and inspection), near‑completion HVAC work at Silvermine, and a phased investigation and site setup at Naramec. Henry said closeout documentation and final walkthroughs are in progress on several projects.

Alan Lowe updated the committee on Norwalk High School construction progress and led a detailed exchange about rooftop solar. He said the State Department of Administrative Services may reimburse up to 60% of the capital cost if the project is treated as a capital installation, which would materially reduce the city’s capital outlay. Staff cautioned that using state reimbursement would typically preclude claiming federal tax credits and that project feasibility depends on design, bid pricing, bond financing terms and the final reimbursement determination. Alan said staff will prepare financial models and return to the council with a recommendation.

Committee members also discussed a newly announced potential additional 5% state reimbursement for a West Rocks submission; staff said finance and schedule constraints will determine whether to pursue that option this year.