Citizens' oversight group reports referendum work largely on time and under budget; board hears community concern about an auditorium

Ray Warko, chair of the citizens-led oversight committee for the district referendums, told the board on Nov. 4 that the 2019 referendum projects are roughly 99% complete and under budget and that the 2023 referendum's largest project should move new students into facilities next fall.

Warko described the committee's tracking approach — a green/yellow/red “traffic light” system — and the role of subcommittees for facilities, communications and finance. He said the oversight committee compares expected payments to actual contract payouts, monitors contingencies and asks construction managers detailed questions when costs change.

"Things are rocking along," Warko told the board, adding the committee meets monthly and reviews project schedules, contingency adjustments and contract payouts.

Board members pressed on Ladies Island Middle School, where community members have raised concerns about the absence of a planned auditorium. "Can we legally do that under the referendum if it was not previously specified?" one trustee asked. Warko and others said scope must align with referendum specifications and construction managers' cost estimates; some trustees suggested pursuing other funding pockets, while noting the referendum's execution discipline should not be compromised.

The oversight chair and board members said any change to add a large feature like an auditorium would likely require additional funding and community discussion, and might not be allowed under the referendum's approved scope.

No formal action was taken; the operations committee will consider the Labeco property deed and potential swaps and will return a recommendation to the full board. The oversight committee will continue monthly monitoring and report back to the board.