Business Advisory Council flags aging HVAC, discusses district foundation account

Mark Souza, speaking for the Business Advisory Council, told the board the BAC is exploring a district‑level philanthropic mechanism through the Warren County Foundation to accept donations without forming a standalone 501(c)(3). He said an initial startup threshold cited by foundation staff was about $1,000 and the foundation would typically charge roughly 1% of assets under management to administer accounts.

On facilities, Souza reported recurring failures of ceiling cassette and rooftop HVAC units in older buildings. He said some systems were installed around 2008–2009 and that bids received for Hamilton/Maineville repairs or replacement options ranged from roughly $119,600 to $122,000 for the options discussed; he emphasized the need to define scope and obtain multiple competitive quotes. Souza noted one option concentrates heating/cooling for clusters of classrooms while another isolates classrooms to limit the impact of a single unit failure.

Board members stressed prioritizing student‑impact areas such as Salem, which has had classrooms struggle to maintain reasonable temperatures, and recommended additional quotes and review of leasing obligations where tenants occupy closed school buildings. The BAC plans further work and will return with recommended motions if the board chooses to proceed.