MSBA Process

The Massachusetts School Building Authority has a delineated process for research, funding and construction of public schools. Once a locally designated committee — with members approved by the MSBA — and the authority come to an agreement on design and cost, the local governing authority must approve funding the entire amount for the project within 120 days of the MSBA board's approval.

The local authority may be a city council under the mayoral form of government, town meeting or regional school districtwide meeting. The authorizing borrowing indicates to the community's commitment to the project. Should a vote fail, the municipality or school district has a limited amount of time to take action before state funding is reallocated.

According to the MSBA, "a failed local vote likely will result in the school district being required to submit a new Statement of Interest to the MSBA and await an invitation from the MSBA to enter the Eligibility Period phase of the MSBA's process."