Board asks whether DOE will reimburse repairs to properties not currently used as classrooms

Board members asked whether repairs and renovations to properties that are not currently used as classroom space would be eligible for reimbursement from the Department of Education as part of the district's five-year planning. The Chair asked what is "out there" and whether the district should retain properties to secure reimbursement eligibility; a second speaker in the transcript offered to seek a clear answer.

"Is there ever been any discussion about...reimbursement money when we...do those repairs, renovations?" the Chair asked, noting the district has "a few outbound properties" that prompted the question. The Chair said the Department of Education (DOE) "cares about where we're educating students...the classroom space" and that reimbursements are tied to classroom use. The transcript includes the Chair saying, "These type of reimbursements are only eligible when the properties are part of the district."

Early in the exchange another speaker (identified in the transcript as Dr. Rhodes) said, "I've not been a part of any of those discussions, but we can certainly get an answer to that for you," indicating the board requested staff to follow up with details on eligibility. The transcript also references "LOA's properties" as an example during the exchange; the record does not indicate whether LOA properties are currently in the district or eligible for DOE funds.

The discussion did not resolve eligibility for specific properties; board members asked staff to return with clarifications for the five-year plan and reimbursement prospects.