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Energy manager seeks $3M Green School Works grant to modernize Fowler Middle School HVAC
Summary
Maynard’s town and school energy manager presented a proposal to apply for Green School Works funding to replace end‑of‑life rooftop HVAC units, add cooling options for classrooms, and upgrade electrical capacity; the committee discussed project options, sequencing with a future roof project and use of 15% of awards for design and project management.
Rebecca, the town and school energy manager, asked the committee to support applying for the Green School Works grant program, which offers awards from $50,000 to $3 million.
Rebecca said the grant could fund HVAC electrification (heat pumps/mini‑splits or rooftop heat‑pump replacements), electrical upgrades to support building cooling, and design/project‑management costs (up to 15% of an award). She proposed Fowler Middle School as the project site, noting the building currently has eight rooftop HVAC units (two have already been replaced and six remain at or near end of life) and limited classroom cooling because electrical capacity is constrained.
Committee members emphasized coordination with other capital plans. Member questions focused on: (1) whether replacing rooftop units now could create redundant costs if the roof is later replaced through MSBA; (2) how many rooftop units remain (Rebecca said six remaining units after two replacements); (3) project management requirements if the project exceeds certain thresholds; and (4) timing for the grant (energy audit and feasibility study results due Feb. 6; application due Feb. 13).
Rebecca said she would prepare two application options for the committee—one focused on classroom electrification (mini‑splits/heat pumps) and one on rooftop replacements—and that the grant administrators would decide which option they fund. She also said she would check with town finance and the select board on who must sign the application and asked the committee to consider a motion authorizing an official to sign on the committee’s behalf if that is required.
Next steps: staff will finalize feasibility and cost estimates, return to the committee with the recommended application option and documentation, and confirm the authorized signer for the grant form.
