HALIFAX - January 27, 2026 - The Halifax Board of Selectmen met Tuesday night to weigh a ambitious “Net Zero” funding proposal for the Silver Lake Regional School District’s aging infrastructure, even as town leaders warned of a looming “budget hole” that could necessitate service cuts. The session also marked the official debut of New Town Administrator Steven Solbo, who hit the ground running with updates on energy grants and MBTA compliance challenges.
The Full Story
The most significant portion of the evening was dedicated to a presentation by Silver Lake School Committee member Jason Fraser regarding the district’s long-term capital maintenance needs. [02:52] Fraser revealed that a comprehensive engineering review conducted last year identified a “staggering” $50 million in immediate and long-term maintenance requirements across the high school and middle school. [05:35] If left unaddressed for a decade, inflation could push that figure to $73 million. [06:00]
To address this without increasing the tax burden, Fraser proposed a “Net Zero” strategy. As a $700,000 mortgage for the middle school project rolls off the books this year, the district suggests repurposing that exact amount into the Silver Lake Stabilization Fund. [07:34] This would allow the district to tackle “Phase 1” projects—including critical air handling units and roof repairs—while maintaining a predictable $1.3 million annual investment from the three member towns (Halifax, Kingston, and Plympton). [08:09]
“If we had to take out a debt exclusion for $400 million to replace those buildings... Halifax would be on the hook for about $35% of that... close to $10 million annually. We shouldn’t even be talking about that because the buildings at age 25 should last us for at least another 25 years if we maintain them well.” [06:16] — Jason Fraser, Silver Lake School Committee
Sarah Hickey, Silver Lake’s Director of Finance and Operations, supported the plan, comparing it to a home inspection where “knob and tube wiring” must be removed before it causes a fire. [13:18] She noted that scope one of the repairs includes $6.9 million in “do it now” items. [12:17]
However, Board Chair Jonathan Selig expressed serious reservations based on the town’s current fiscal health. “We are up against it financially this year in Halifax,” Selig noted, suggesting the town may be facing a “reduction in force” and cuts to services. [14:22] While he called the plan a “no-brainer” in a vacuum, he warned that setting aside $250,000 (Halifax’s share) for future capital might mean “losing a finger” on the town’s operational side today. [19:07] The board took no official vote, opting to wait for “more solid numbers” next month. [30:03]
Earlier in the meeting, the board officially welcomed Steven Solbo as the new Town Administrator. [01:22] In his first report, Solbo detailed his efforts to secure energy grants and navigate the town’s non-compliance with the MBTA Communities Act. [42:41] He warned that while Green Communities grants are currently being “held” rather than revoked, the town’s status remains a “monkey wrench” for future funding that could total $1 million over four years. [42:52]
The board also approved two major community events:
Halifax Pride: Approved for June 6, 2026. Organizers Lori Costa-Cline and Danielle Lally highlighted the event’s charitable contributions, including local scholarships and food pantry donations. [30:41]
Generations Fur Festival: Approved for September 19, 2026. This pet-focused event will feature a DJ, vendors, and activities for local residents and their animals. [36:08]
Finally, the board tabled an Advanced Life Support (ALS) agreement with Beth Israel Deaconess (Plymouth) until February 10 to allow for a more thorough review by the Fire Chief. [37:54]
Why It Matters
This meeting highlights the precarious balancing act facing Halifax: preserving multi-million dollar regional school assets versus maintaining essential local town services. While the “Net Zero” capital plan prevents tax increases, it prevents a “tax drop” that could otherwise be used to plug holes in the town’s operational budget. Residents should watch closely as the FY27 budget comes into focus if the conversation already includes potential reductions in force or service cuts.
Official Minutes & Data
Key Motions & Votes
Motion: To approve the Halifax Pride event for June 6, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. [34:36]
Vote: 3-0 ([34:52])
Motion: To affirm vendor warrant number 67 for $35,156.22. [35:18]
Vote: 3-0 ([35:30])
Motion: To approve selectmen meeting minutes for Dec 16 and Dec 17, 2025. [35:52]
Vote: 3-0 ([36:01])
Motion: To approve the Generations Fur Festival for September 19, 2026. [37:41]
Vote: 3-0 ([37:47])
Public Comment
No formal public comments were made during this session, though representatives from Halifax Pride and Silver Lake Regional Schools provided detailed testimony regarding their respective requests.
What’s Next
February 10, 2026: Next Board of Selectmen meeting.
ALS Agreement: Final review and possible vote following consultation with the Fire Chief. [40:32]
Budget Finalization: The Board and Town Administrator will continue “hammering out” final budget numbers as state “cherry sheets” are released. [46:43]
Source Video: Area58_Halifax