Virtual Special Meeting of the Operations Committee Wed 6/3/2026

The Bridgeport Public Schools Operations Committee held a virtual special meeting on June 3, 2026, focusing primarily on procurement and budget matters. Key procurement discussions included the referral of solar power purchase agreements (PPAs) for Central High School, Luis Munoz Marin School, and Curiale School to the full board. These PPAs involve third-party ownership and maintenance of solar panels, with projected first-year savings of approximately $140,000 and no capital outlay required from the district. Committee members discussed contract terms such as priority service, warranty coverage, transferability, and future expansion to other schools. Additionally, the committee reviewed updated educational specifications for a new specialized special education school, addressing space planning and student population projections. Budget discussions highlighted a balanced budget presentation with a $44 million gap closing plan involving cost-saving measures, additional city funding, and state reimbursements. Transportation contract optimization and potential cost pressures were also discussed, with recommendations to form a committee to address these issues. Lastly, the committee considered approval of expenditures under a special education grant to purchase furniture and curriculum materials, emphasizing the urgency to spend allocated funds by June 9, 2026. The meeting included motions to refer solar contracts and updated school specifications to the full board for approval.