Monomoy committee approves five‑year waste contract and hears building renovation quality concerns

The Monomoy Regional School Committee on Thursday authorized the district to sign a solid‑waste and recycling contract with Barrows Waste Systems LLC, selecting the low bidder after a formal request for proposals.

Business manager Michael told the committee the district had long used an incumbent vendor without rebidding. To ensure competition he issued a formal bid and received three proposals; Barrows submitted the lowest price, provided four favorable references, and proposed a contract structure of an initial three‑year term with two optional one‑year extensions for a total possible five years. Michael said the bid locks in the price for the five‑year term but includes language allowing the vendor to request adjustments if there are significant cost drivers (for example diesel price increases or major disposal‑site cost changes) after the second year; such requests would be subject to discussion with the district.

Committee members asked whether the bid price covers all five years or is an annual rate; Michael confirmed the bid price is the five‑year price as structured in the contract documents. Concerns were raised about loyalty to the incumbent carrier Millie Trucking, which was not the low bidder; members noted the difference in cost was substantial and that Barrows appeared to be locally based and well referenced. The committee moved, seconded and approved awarding the contract.

Separately, the superintendent and building committee reported steady progress on the middle‑school renovation (siding and new windows), but several members said they have raised concerns about window installation details and possible shortcuts that could affect watertighting. Building committee members described on‑site verification and stronger scrutiny of the architect, owner’s project manager and contractor to avoid poor workmanship. The superintendent noted removal of siding has revealed isolated areas of rot and possible mold; those spots will require change orders and additional remediation work this summer once full access is available.

The committee approved the waste contract and agreed to continue close oversight of the renovation, emphasizing the district’s investment and the desire to avoid repeat repairs.