BASA Member Update 7.20.18

HOT TOPICS

Lead Plumbing Fixture Replacement Assistance Grants Available The Ohio Facilities Construction Commission invites schools to apply for the Lead Plumbing Fixture Replacement Assistance Grant Program , if they have not already done so. A second round of funding is available to help Ohio schools replace eligible lead plumbing fixtures. The deadline to apply is July 31. If your school is interested in applying and has not received direct notification of this program, contact grants.info@ofcc.ohio.gov for additional information. The program provides eligible schools reimbursement funding for the assessment and replacement of drinking fountains, water coolers, plumbing fixtures, and limited connected piping. Schools built before 1990 can apply for up to $15,000 in reimbursement for assessment and the material costs to replace fixtures identified as being over the federal action level for lead in drinking water. Auditor of State Addresses Crowdfunding According to the major news media outlets this week, Ohio Auditor Dave Yost addressed the issue of crowdfunding for Ohio schools. It would appear that the acceptance of cash or merchandise by school employees for “public purposes” could be subject to audit. The report as it appeared in the Columbus Dispatch appears here ( http://www.dispatch.com/ news/20180711/school-districts-should-adopt-uniform-crowdfunding-policies-auditor- says ), and the Youngstown Vindicator article is at http://www.vindy.com/news/2018/ jul/11/state-issues-guidance-on-using-crowdfund/ . It is recommended that you contact either your policy service or your district’s legal counsel.