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Harvard committee extends Whitson's food service contract after members cite quality concerns
Summary
After committee members raised consistent concerns about food quality, shortages and accommodation of dietary restrictions, the Harvard School Committee voted 3-2 to extend the district's contract with Whitson's Culinary Group for one year with a firm expectation of immediate improvement.
The Harvard School Committee voted 3-2 on April 13 to extend its contract with Whitson's Culinary Group for one year, even as several members raised concerns about meal quality, supply shortages and accommodations for dietary restrictions.
Committee members Amy Morton and Dr. Katharine Covino voted against the extension, saying the district needs more immediate, measurable improvements. Chair Abigail Besse, Liz Joyce and Brian Killeen voted in favor. The motion, moved by Brian Killeen and seconded by Liz Joyce, carried with the committee attaching a firm expectation that Whitson's demonstrate rapid improvements or face potential replacement after the authorization.
Director of Finance and Operations Mandy Ostaszewski and Superintendent Dr. Linda Dwight said district staff have conducted spot food checks and will meet with Whitson's management in May to press for improvements and consult with other districts that use the vendor. The committee did not set specific performance metrics in the meeting record; members said they expect clear, immediate changes.
The extension is for one year; the committee's vote preserves continuity of food services while providing the vendor a chance to address the district's concerns. The committee recorded the vote breakdown during the roll call: yes votes from Abigail Besse, Liz Joyce and Brian Killeen; no votes from Dr. Katharine Covino and Amy Morton.
