Council seeks inspection reports and cost details for Overbrook Academy as residents raise school budget concerns

Smithfield — Council members asked staff May 19 to provide inspection reports, cost breakdowns and the most recent communications about Overbrook Academy (60 Easton Avenue) after residents and councilors raised questions about building condition, potential asbestos findings and possible uses.

Councilors said they had received an informational packet and tours but wanted formal inspection reports and financial data. One councilor noted reports requested in January had not been received and asked staff to forward building inspection and maintenance cost documents and any grant-related materials from the Infrastructure Bank that staff said is assisting with inspections.

Town staff said an early walk‑through identified some asbestos in pipe trenches and that the process of more extensive inspections and remediation has proceeded incrementally; officials said no significant findings had surfaced in the walkthrough but that a final report was not yet available.

Separately during public comment, Eleni Tsambato, a sophomore at Smithfield High School, asked about reports that five teachers might be notified of layoffs tied to budget uncertainty; council and staff explained that operating budget and staff-notice processes are under the school department and the budget board, and that notices are required by statute but are not final layoff determinations.

Councilors asked that staff provide inspection reports, maintenance cost summaries, and any meeting notes or lease proposals involving the property so council members can respond to constituent queries. Town staff agreed to gather the requested documentation and route it to council offices.

Next steps: Staff to provide inspection reports and cost/meeting documentation to council members; Infrastructure Bank involvement to be clarified and timelines provided.