Politics & Government
Superintendent: Keefe Tech Roof Replacement a Must
James Lynch said constant leaks and other repairs to the roof have created a safety concern.
South Middlesex Regional Vocational Technical School District Superintendent Jim Lynch received a thunderous standing ovation after opening Day 1 of Fall Town Meeting in Natick by announcing is retirement.
Lynch, who has been a part of Keefe Tech High School in Framingham for over three decades, presented Article 1 to residents and town leaders, which was regarding the school's roof replacement project.
"I've been blessed with this opportunity, and I'm grateful," he said. "I'm grateful to the Town of Natick (which joined the district in 1987.) The reception I’ve received by this body ... you have my gratitude."
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The article asked residents to vote to receive a report from the South Middlesex Regional Vocational Technical School District regarding the Massachusetts School Building Authority’s invitation to conduct a feasibility study for the roof.
The original roof was built in 1973 and replaced in 1987.
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At 160,000 square feet, the current issues with the flat roof include leaks, frequent repairs, and wind damage from Hurricane Sandy, when the membrane blew off (it was repaired with insurance). The overall safety of the roof is now a concern.
"It’s important that we do (this)," Lynch said.The district, which includes Natick, Ashland, Framingham, Holliston and Hopkinton, is working with the Massachusetts School Building Authority and is expecting to receive 65 percent reimbursement from the state.
Each town in the district would be responsible for a portion of the remainder of the costs, divided based on each town's enrollment.
At the end of the presentation, Tassos Filledes, a Keefe Tech School Committee member from Natick, lauded the work Lynch has done over the years.
"In my 38 years of education, I've worked with many superintendents," he said. "(Lynch) is one of the finest I’ve ever worked with. Keefe Tech has grown in many positive ways (because of him)."
Principal Jonathan Evans, who has been at Keefe Tech for the past 18 years, will take over as superintendent when Lynch retires in January.
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