Andrew Eckman

The meeting involved the discussion and approval of two invoices submitted by Shipman & Goodwin and Arcadis. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the next steps for the Lyman Memorial High School renovation following a walkthrough, focusing on the poor condition of exterior block work, the need to potentially replace the elevator, and the cost implications of replacing windows. The committee also discussed bringing the building up to standards for use as an emergency shelter. A recommendation was made to hire a designer to create rough sketches and price out renovations based on the SLAM Study, with Arcadis to present three potential designer firms for committee recommendation in March 2026. Additionally, the committee discussed an Arcadis proposal regarding the Lebanon Elementary School (LES) HVAC and roof replacement, specifically addressing issues with heating fuel gelling and the logistics and cost associated with solar panel removal for roof work. The minutes from the previous Special Meeting held on February 3, 2026, were approved.

The Facilities Subcommittee meeting included an update on past ticket items, confirming the completion of catch basins and noting that items like LMS exterior doors and the LMS air handler belt replacement are pending supply or final connection. A Fire Pump controller at LES is anticipated for connection shortly. Snow & Ice Control services were reported as satisfactory. A walkthrough update focused on Lyman School envelope items such as windows, ceilings, restrooms, and masonry as potential renovation projects. Regarding LES Boilers, cylinders were replaced, and recommendations were made for additional heating solutions or potential rope replacement.

The Finance Subcommittee reviewed the proposed capital budget for 2026-2027, recommending allocations of $210,000 for Facilities, $63,000 for Athletics, and $127,000 for Technology. The operating budget was reviewed, currently projecting a 4.093% increase, with a placeholder for a potential 23% increase pending an insurance quote. The Subcommittee also reviewed proposed tuition rate increases for 2026-2027, recommending a 3.5% increase for Contractual Sending Towns (except Franklin, which is recommended at 2.5% per agreement), Children of Staff Members, and Special Services.

The meeting was called to order with four members present. Key discussions centered on approving expenses related to the DPW project. Approvals included a $23,050.00 deposit for carpentry work to Eastern CT Builders, LLC; $1,110.00 for Special Inspector Services to E2 engineers; $5,500.00 for January 2026 construction management services to J.R. Russo, LLC; $55,000.00 for Mobilization and Installation of Mainframes to Rutherford Construction Corp; and $5,330.00 for system components to Sav-Mor Cooling & Heating, Inc. An update provided via email indicated that steel frame erection is progressing and that siding and roofing are expected to be substantially completed by the end of the month.

The Finance Subcommittee reviewed the operating budget worksheet and presentation for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. Key discussions focused on budget updates, specifically noting that a newly received insurance rate reflecting a 19.9% increase, combined with the fact that a number of employees elected not to enroll in the insurance plan, resulted in a reduction of the overall budget increase. The subcommittee scheduled a final review and vote for February 10, 2026.