The focus of discussion at the Bethlehem Area School Board’s Oct. 16 Finance Committee meeting was a presentation by PFM financial advisers showing various financing options for the new Fountain Hill ES construction project.

A resolution has been drawn as required of all school districts who advance themselves money from the general fund, for a capital project, (Fountain Hill ES.) agreeing to reimburse the general fund once the primary moneys for the project have been secured. The resolution was presented and reviewed by the firm of Eckart, Seamans, Cherin, and Mellott, the district’s bond counsel. This is a common way to start a project before the final funding has been made available.

The Human Resource Committee has been busy updating board policies. The board and committee recognize the importance of having clear policy expectations that are current, before they can efficiently enforce them. This is a long and tedious process that requires reviewing, rewriting (if necessary) and presenting to the board for three readings before each policy is approved. Each policy must comply with state and federal rulings.

Chief Human Resource Officer Dr. John Burrus supported Chief Finance Officer Harry Aristakesian, who said, ”This is a great internal organization learning opportunity.”