Seekonk to Vote on Tri-County Debt Exclusion

The Select Board voted Wednesday to place a debt exclusion proposal to help pay the costs of the Tri-County building project on the April 2024 election ballot.

Last October, voters from 11 communities across three counties approved funding construction of a new $286 million Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School building in Franklin.

The regional school district is composed of Franklin, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norfolk, North Attleboro, Plainville, Sherborn, Walpole, and Wrentham. A total of 5,365 votes were in favor, with 3229 in opposition. The project was rejected by Seekonk voters.

Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said taxpayers will have to pay $1.1 million annually over a 30 year period.

Cadime noted if the debt exclusion is not approved, $1.1 million will have to be taken from the annual town budget. That would impact all departments, including the schools.

“There could be some buyer’s remorse if (residents) vote against it as well,” said Board member Justin Sullivan. “I think without question putting (a debt exclusion) on the ballot makes the most sense.”

Partial reimbursement of the cost will be paid by the Massachusetts School Building Association. The remaining $200 million will be paid by the 11-member communities.