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FAQs

Franklin County Technical School — Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why does FCTS need a new building instead of repairs?

  • The current school, built in 1975, is nearly 50 years old.
  • Critical systems (roof, plumbing, electrical) are failing.
  • The existing building is not currently equipped with a fire suppression system.
  • Existing building repair and code updates $125M- with no state reimbursement
  • Repairs would not solve outdated layouts, undersized spaces, or safety issues.
  • A new school addresses all deficiencies and qualifies for 66.27% reimbursement of eligible project cost. (Roughly 48% of all costs)

2. What is the total cost of the new school and how much will the state reimburse?

  • Total Project Cost: $236M (final cost set in Schematic Design Phase).
  • MSBA Reimbursement: 66.27% of eligible costs.
  • Local Share: $122.8M, spread over 30 years across 19 towns.

3. How are costs shared among the 19 towns?

  • The cost of the project would be shared among Franklin Tech's 19 member communities through the district's existing assessment formula. Each community's share is calculated using:

    • 50% Population — most recent U.S. Census
    • 50% Equalized Valuation — most recent Department of Revenue report

4. What happens if FCTS does not receive MSBA funding?

  • We lose $113.8M in MSBA reimbursement — gone forever.
  • The district will still need to spend $125.3M in multiple 15-year bonds to patch old systems. But not fix ongoing issues
  • Taxpayers will pay nearly as much annually, with no reimbursement.
  • 15 year ongoing bonds for the life of the building
  • Students and staff remain in an outdated, inefficient, unsafe building.
  • The district may resubmit a Statement of Interest (SOI) to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA); however, it would likely take several years before the district is invited to reenter the MSBA's grant program.
  • MSBA will not reimburse the Feasibility and Schematic Design Phases a second time.
  • Repairs and required code upgrades would need to be completed through a phased construction schedule, resulting in disruptions to students, staff, and school operations over a period of more than four years.
  • Likely outcome, reductions in scope at a greater cost to the district. 

5. What happens if FCTS does receive MSBA funding?

  • Capture $113.8M in state aid.
  • Build a safe, modern, efficient school designed for 50+ years.
  • Create industry-aligned shops and labs that meet OSHA and state standards.
  • Provide flexible space for growth, technology, and future programs.

  • Improve energy efficiency, lowering long-term operating costs.

6. Who is overseeing the project?

  • Building Committee: educators, school leadership, parents, town officials, and industry partners.
  • Owner’s Project Manager (OPM): Colliers Project Leaders
  • Architect: Lavallee Brensinger Associates.

  • Oversight ensures fiscal responsibility and compliance with state requirements.

7. Who is the MSBA and what is their role?

  • The Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) funds and oversees public school construction.
  • They provide 66.27% reimbursement of eligible costs.
  • They require strict educational, fiscal, and safety standards.

  • FCTS was prioritized by the MSBA as one of the highest-need schools in the state.

8. Will the new building reflect modern educational needs?

  • Yes. The design will:
    • Meet MSBA and Chapter 74 vocational standards.
    • Include industry-standard labs and shops.
    • Support advanced technology.
    • Provide flexible learning spaces.
    • Create a safe, healthy, inspiring environment.

    • Plans have been reviewed and approved by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE)

9. Will the building be energy efficient?

  • Yes. Planned features include:
    • Hybrid geothermal ground and air-source HVAC systems.
    • Energy-efficient lighting and controls.
    • LEED certification goals.
    • Compliance with the Stretch Energy Code.
  • These features reduce utility and maintenance costs long-term.
  • The Project may qualify for rebates and tax credits for incorporating energy efficient systems

10. What is the project timeline?

  • 2025–26: Final schematic design & cost approval.
  • 10/06/2026 12-8PM: District-wide vote.
  • 10/7/2026-12/31/2027: Detailed Design and Bidding
  • 2028: Construction.
  • Fall 2030: Students move into the new school.

11. How does this affect seniors and residents in assisted housing?

  • Seniors in assisted housing are not impacted by property tax increases.

  • Outreach will ensure seniors in nursing and care facilities know about the project and voting process.