06/11/2026
Date: June 10, 2026
To: Topsfield Select Board
Cc: Topsfield Town Administrator
Masconomet School Committee, Chair and Topsfield members
Dear Members of the Topsfield Select Board,
The Sustainability Advisory Committee (SAC) writes in support of Question 4 on the June 17, 2026 Special Election ballot concerning the Masconomet roof and HVAC project.
After reviewing and discussing the proposal, the SAC believes this project represents a prudent investment for our community, offering both economic and environmental benefits. At our public
meeting on June 9, 2026, the SAC voted to formally support the advancing of this project.
From a sustainability perspective, renovating and upgrading an existing facility is generally more environmentally responsible than constructing a new building. The proposed project also provides an opportunity to incorporate modern building technologies, including significantly improved Building Management Systems (BMS), which can enhance energy efficiency, operational performance, and occupant comfort.
In addition, the project creates an opportunity to evaluate and potentially incorporate heat pump technology, which is widely recognized as a more sustainable and energy-efficient alternative to conventional HVAC systems. Such improvements can help reduce energy consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions over the long term.
From a financial standpoint, the SAC understands this project is likely to be more cost-effective than alternative approaches, both in terms of near-term expenditures and total lifecycle costs. Investments in modernized building systems can reduce maintenance requirements, improve efficiency, and generate long-term savings for taxpayers.
For these reasons, the Sustainability Advisory Committee supports Question 4 and encourages careful consideration of the significant economic and environmental benefits this project can provide to our community.
Respectfully,
The Sustainability Advisory Committee (SAC)
Zillie Theodorou Bhuju (Chair)
Jenn Forster (Vice-Chair)
Philip Kennedy (Clerk)
Rafael McDonald (Select Board Liaison)
Charise Rohm Nulsen (Member, Communications)
Jackie Yee (non-voting member, Sustainability Coordinator)
