LCS Science Room Building Committee approves contractor payment, funds ball valves and sets weekly construction meetings

The LCS Science Room Building Committee voted unanimously on July 14, 2026, to approve the General Contractor's first contract installment of $57,190 and to authorize up to $1,600 for replacement ball valves for new workstations. Vice Chair Ray Joly presided in Chair David Wood’s absence and the meeting was called to order at 7:06 PM.

The payment was approved after committee members discussed project status and the demolition phase; the motion to pay the first installment was made by R. Baah and seconded by Michael Zelasky. The Committee also voted unanimously to grant alternate member R. Baah full voting status earlier in the meeting (motion by A. Thibeault, second by M. Zelasky).

On equipment and finish items, members reopened discussion on window film for the science lab to clarify its intended function—whether to block sunlight, block heat, improve safety, or some combination—and agreed to consult the classroom teacher on purpose. R. Baah was assigned to take window measurements so the Committee can obtain cost estimates. Committee members noted that the contract requires the General Contractor to provide complete specifications at project completion; retainer funds will be withheld if those specifications are not supplied.

Logistics for casework delivery were discussed: a partial delivery is scheduled for July 20 at 8:00 AM and, per the contract, the General Contractor is responsible for accepting delivery. Committee staff will contact the General Contractor to ensure someone is onsite, and Vice Chair Joly will check with the casework vendor about the schedule for remaining pieces. The Committee recorded that floor removal, originally set to begin July 13, was delayed to July 15 and is expected to be completed by July 17.

Access to the school for meetings and inspections remains problematic; the Committee Clerk will contact the Selectmen's Administrator to obtain the form required to apply for a temporary key. Members also requested confirmation that the contractually required two coats of paint were applied to new walls.

The Committee agreed to hold weekly on-site construction meetings on Tuesdays for the duration of the construction phase; the remaining July meetings were scheduled for July 21 and July 28 at 7:00 PM. A motion to adjourn was approved at 8:12 PM.

Votes at a glance: the Committee recorded unanimous votes to (1) give alternate member R. Baah voting status; (2) approve payment of $57,190 to the General Contractor; (3) approve funding for ball valves not to exceed $1,600; and (4) adjourn the meeting. All motions noted in the minutes passed unanimously.