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Board debates hiring GMS Funding Solutions to boost capital grant prospects
Summary
Members discussed contracting GMS Funding Solutions to pursue grants for capital projects (including a turf field). Board members raised concerns about a minimum 12-month commitment, $5,000/month fees (about $60,000/year), references and whether the expected ROI justifies the cost.
Board members considered engaging GMS Funding Solutions, a private grant-consulting firm, to pursue state and federal grants for capital projects such as a turf field.
Craig Long (introduced during the meeting) described GMS's role: scoping projects to grant requirements, ensuring bid compliance, shepherding applications through bureaucratic and legislative channels, and supporting contracting if awards are made. He recounted prior experience using such firms in health-system capital work.
Shelley said districts have used similar firms successfully; one nearby district was reported to have received about $750,000 on a past project where a consultant worked on the award and implementation. Board members pressed for clarity on costs: transcript attendees said GMS typically requires a 12-month commitment with a monthly fee that was described in the meeting as roughly $5,000 plus ordinary expenses (board members estimated that would equal $60,000 for the year). A trustee said the recurring-month retainer and minimum term were the primary hesitation and asked for local references that show demonstrable ROI for school districts.
Staff said GMS assesses project fit and will not take on work they believe has little chance of success; the firm also asked many questions during the vetting meeting to determine whether their effort would likely yield awards. The board did not vote to hire GMS; members asked staff to obtain references, firm contract terms and a clearer budget that includes any start-up or monthly expenses before any commitment.
