Southborough youth commission approves $5,000 for furniture as office move proceeds

The Town of Southborough Youth Commission approved using up to $5,000 from its department donation account to purchase furniture for the Department of Youth and Family Services as it prepares to relocate to the Flag School.

Director Sarah Micas told members the facilities department has begun preparing the Flag School site and that much of the office's current furniture cannot be moved or does not meet fire-retardant requirements for the new space. Micas said the department's donation (revolving) account holds roughly $6,000 and asked the commission for authority to spend from that account to buy desks, chairs and a limited amount of seating.

Commissioners discussed options for staging purchases, working within town vendor lists and seeking donated items for reuse. Several members noted some furniture had been purchased previously by Friends of the Youth Commission and suggested donating usable pieces to local charities rather than placing them in storage.

A motion to authorize up to $5,000 from the donation account for furniture-related expenses for the Department of Youth and Family Services carried by roll call with all members present voting in favor.

The commission asked staff to pursue cost estimates that meet town procurement rules and to return with a specific purchasing plan if additional funds or approvals become necessary. The department expects to move into the Flag School later this year; staff said they will buy the minimum needed to make the new office functional and add items in stages as the space is lived in.

Next steps: staff will compile a prioritized list of needed furnishings, check with the facilities director about vendor/ordering options and seek any usable donations before making purchases.