New Heights Board of Trustees

September 27, 2016

Starting Time: 5:30

Location: 1 Commerce Way, Norwood, MA

I. Call to Order

I. Meeting called to order at 5:38 pm by Chairman Sullivan

II. Roll Call

I. Maria Fernandes

II. Rick Schwartz

III. Vinnie Marturano

IV. Mike Sullivan

V. Manny Daphnis

VI. Carlos Gomes

VII. Nick Christ

VIII. Ollie Spears

IX. Gregory Philips

III. Reading and Approval of Minutes

IV. Reports of Officers, Boards, and Standing Committees

I. Chairperson’s Report

II. Executive Director’s Report

I. 1690 Update: Does not appear they have moved as fast as we had hoped. Plumbing has been the biggest issue, several plumbers have accepted the job and backed out. The bathrooms have been gutted and they have had to expand the space where the bathrooms go to add fixtures. They are waiting for someone to come in. We have the permits but we need someone to come in and complete the work.

I. We have completed our electronic, mechanical and rough building inspection. One inspection remains to put up drywall, with the exception of bathrooms.

II. Chairman Sullivan wondered about how much plumbing work is still required? Approximately 2 weeks, once a plumber is found.

III. The state will visit on October 6, next Thursday

II. Board entered Executive Session at 5:53 pm for a discussion with legal counsel.

III. Board enters open session at 6:46pm

IV. Continued update, 1690 Main Street

I. If one of the abutters appeals the zoning board and we are not qualified for parking, the building inspector will need to identify proper parking for all three businesses (moving, storage, and school)

II. We believe we need approximately 158 parking spots.

III. Attorney McClusky is going to work with us to establish the parking map.

IV. NHCSB will send a letter to parents to attend the October 12th meeting.

V. School Updates

I. Great, young staff that are new to teaching. Lots of academic support staff to help teachers.

II. We have a broad range of students. We have some behavior issues but we are working on how best to work with our students. Executive Director Walker rode the bus today to deal with some discipline issues.

III. Resiliency Foundation will purchase fleece jackets for all kids

IV. We are developing our retreat schedule to get our kids active

VI. Extension of lease in Norwood: The Board will need to make a decision regarding the third month of rent in Norwood

I. Motion to give Omari the option to extend the lease and busing one more month, placing money in a contingency budget line for the present space

I. Passes unanimously

II. Motion to give Executive Director the option to request a loan in the amount of $250,000 once the certificate of occupancy is issued and approved.

I. Passes unanimously

V. Reports of Special Committees

I. Finance Committee Report

II. Governance Committee Report

III. Academic Excellence Committee Report

VI. Special Orders

VII. Unfinished Business and General Orders

VIII. New Business

IX. Good of the Order

I. Announcements

X. Adjourn

I. Meeting adjourned at 8:08