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Swampscott committee approves Big Blue Bargains occupancy at Clark School after security concerns, 3–1

Swampscott School Committee · February 5, 2026

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Summary

The School Committee approved a one-year, revocable use-and-occupancy agreement allowing Big Blue Bargains to use portables and two second-floor classrooms at Clark School. Members expressed concerns about egress, staffing and building security; the motion passed 3–1 with committee members asking the operator to address staffing and access controls.

The Swampscott School Committee voted 3–1 on Feb. 5 to renew and expand a use-and-occupancy agreement with Big Blue Bargains, permitting the organization to operate a thrift operation out of portables and two classrooms on the Clark School's second floor.

The renewal adds interior classroom space to the portable footprint Big Blue Bargains already occupies. The administration said the town council negotiated the agreement and that insurance and indemnification provisions were included.

Committee members raised safety questions during the discussion, asking whether doors could be locked (egress rules prevent locking some doors), whether internal security cameras exist in the Clark building (they do not), and what liability the district retains since it owns the building. Max, the presenter, said the district had reviewed insurance and coordination with town counsel and that the parties had tried to manage the risks: “We can't lock the doors … because of egress,” he said, and added that the town and operator had coordinated schedules with recreation staff to limit interference.

Several members urged the operator to increase staffing or volunteer coverage to reduce the chance of unattended access to upstairs rooms. Committee member Suzanne reminded colleagues that the agreement is renewed each year and is revocable if problems arise.

After discussion, the committee approved the agreement by a 3–1 vote. Members asked the administration to pass on the committee’s security concerns to Big Blue Bargains and to monitor the arrangement during the occupancy year.