Acushnet Board Backs Grant Bid That Could Cut School Air Project Cost by Millions

ACUSHNET — February 11, 2026 — Acushnet Select Board unanimously backs school air quality grant application that could cut town costs to $3.2 million. The board voted to allow the school committee and school business administration to submit a Green School Works grant application before the February 13 deadline, with results expected in mid-May. School committee liaison Jesse Ellis and business administrator Aldo presented a revised project scope totaling $6,947,425 — up from the $4.2 million proposal voters rejected — driven by federal refrigerant regulations requiring full replacement of air handling equipment in the school's rooftop mechanical penthouse. Combined with $500,000 in previously approved Green Communities money and roughly $250,000 in Eversource rebates, a $3 million grant award would leave the town's net share at approximately $3.2 million. Ellis told the board the vote of support does not obligate the town to accept the grant if awarded. The board also interviewed town administrator candidate Adam LaMontagne, formerly of Templeton and currently serving in Phillipston, and learned that interim administrator Mr. Kelly must formally retire by February 28 or restart retirement paperwork.