Board committees debate new facilities supervisor job and pursue grants to fix Rice pump and HVAC controls

Human‑resources and physical‑plant committee members discussed edits to a proposed districtwide Facilities Supervisor job description, focusing on two points: whether the role should carry direct responsibility for programming HVAC/software systems or instead require formal collaboration with the IT department; and whether "athletic facility staff" language inadvertently assigns supervisory authority over coaching staff.

A committee member said facility controls have become complex and suggested wording that emphasizes "consultation with IT" rather than sole responsibility for software programming. Administrators agreed to revise the job posting language before final public posting and to widen salary bands to reflect two hiring models—an outsourced/limited‑scope manager (lower pay) versus a higher‑paid in‑house specialist.

On infrastructure, the physical‑plant committee reported a recent Rice Elementary pump failure. Administrators recommended a short‑term repair estimated under $5,000—using a recovered driver and a pump repair—while they pursue a larger Department/agency‑assisted filtration project. The district has engaged engineering support via state channels; PennVest and a PA water/sewer grant were identified as possible funding sources. Staff said PennVest/PA programs could cover a substantial portion if a municipal sponsor (Rice Township) is secured; the district will await design specifications before advancing a utility‑management contract.

Separately, consultants surveying district HVAC systems recommended investing in centralized, open controls to replace a patchwork of proprietary systems rather than full equipment replacement. Administration plans to prepare dollar estimates for grant applications and asked the board to approve resolutions next week so applications can be filed by the March 13 deadline.