Residents and board voice concern about school plans, possible consolidation

Board members discussed school planning and an advisory item the school board considered; Chair said a figure “that’s been floated out in public is $50,000,000” when describing a proposed middle‑school wing. Several participants criticized the school board’s approach, calling the process vague and lacking in advance notice to the public.

Speakers warned that if the middle‑school wing proceeds and grade reassignments occur, Lester could face losing students to Nashabee and the town might need contingency planning, including setting aside municipal funds to cover potential future responsibility for school property. One participant recommended preparing a municipal expense fund so the town could respond if it had to take ownership of a school building for municipal purposes.

No formal direction or vote was taken; the board agreed to keep the issue on its radar and consider inviting the superintendent for confidential or executive‑session discussion to clarify options and timelines.