OCBE Meeting December 2, 2024

The Oldham County Schools Board of Education held a work session on December 2, 2024, focusing extensively on facility planning, capital improvement projects, and financial management related to upcoming construction and renovation efforts. Key procurement discussions included the proposal to engage a construction manager for the South High School project to improve project oversight and cost management, with an emphasis on phased construction and living-with-construction challenges. The board reviewed a detailed historical perspective of capital projects across the district and discussed bonding capacity, outstanding debt, and refinancing opportunities to support future projects. Financial advisors from Baird presented an analysis of restricted funds, bonding capacity, and debt service, highlighting the district's strong fiscal position and capacity to fund approximately $255 million in bonds for capital projects. The board also discussed budget considerations, including salary increases, staffing needs such as interventionists, and fee structures for students, with attention to equitable funding across schools. Additionally, the meeting covered school safety enhancements, including consideration of a new emergency response platform for staff, and updates on graduation venue planning. Motions were passed to approve premium allocation and reallocation of duties related to staffing. The board planned further discussions on budget priorities and capital project timelines in upcoming meetings.