Concerns raised about Board of Education bathroom project process and RFP posting

Andover, Conn. — During the Board of Finance meeting on Sept. 24, members raised concerns about the Board of Education’s handling of a proposed elementary school bathroom project, asking why the project’s RFP and committee activity were not clearly posted for public review.

Members said the Board of Education had discussed the project, formed a subcommittee and named consultants during prior meetings, but that the town’s website and the Board of Education webpage lacked a posted RFP or meeting notices for the subcommittee. Town Administrator Eric said he received a request to post information from the Board of Education’s staff and would have posted an RFP document if the town had received the RFP package for posting.

Board members said the lack of posted materials created confusion at recent public meetings and asked that the Board of Education provide copies of the RFP, confirm subcommittee meeting dates and make the procurement process and schedule available to other governing boards and the public.

Why it matters: Procurement for school capital work, especially projects funded or overseen through a subcommittee, is subject to public‑meeting and town purchasing policies. Board of Finance members said better cross‑board communication and timely posting of procurement documents will help elected boards and residents understand scope, schedule and budget implications.