Whately Center School Panel Launches Search for Reuse Partners via Public RFI

School Committee · Meeting of February 12, 2026

Whately's Center School Reuse Committee agreed to issue a public Request for Information to find nonprofit, development, and operating partners for the historic town-owned building. Meeting with four of seven members after liaison members Paula Jenkins and one other resigned, the committee discussed a $4.3 million capital construction estimate and identified historic preservation tax credits — valued at close to $1 million — and Community Preservation Act funds as the most realistic funding sources. A staff contact named Carolyn, who has been coordinating with the Franklin County Regional Council of Governments (FERCOG), was tasked with drafting the RFI with FERCOG's assistance; the document will solicit interest across co-working, commercial kitchen, childcare, and community-space uses.

The committee also discussed forming a shell nonprofit, at an application cost of roughly $450, to position the project for future funding ahead of a long-term operator being identified. A short item for the town's Scoop newsletter, due March 4, will direct residents to the feasibility study's executive summary and invite organizational partners to make contact.

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Source: the School Committee meeting of February 12, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.