Lowell subcommittee backs studying a centralized city–school facilities department, with workers’ jobs protected

Councilors and school committee members at a Feb. 25 joint facilities subcommittee meeting agreed to advance a proposal to study a centralized facilities department to manage school and city building maintenance, while adopting language intended to protect existing unionized positions.

The motion, introduced by Councilor Robinson, sought to make clear that “as a result of the creation of a collaborative centralized facilities department, not 1 of our unionized employees will lose a position.” The motion was moved by Councilor Robinson and seconded by School Committee member Del Rossi and Councilor Scott; a roll call was taken though the transcript does not record a full named tally.

Why it matters: Lowell leaders said the city has invested in schools in recent years — Councilor Dakota noted the council has committed "over $72,000,000 to school facility improvements" since 2022 — but members said day-to-day maintenance remains challenged by a shortage of skilled trades and an expanding backlog of work orders. Participants proposed…