POMEROY — The matter of replacing the air conditioning chiller at the Meigs Elementary School has been a topic of discussion at the Meigs Local Board of Education for some time, and at this week’s meeting, a “resolution of urgent necessity” was passed.

That resolution authorizes the district to skip the advertising for bids process and move forward. It provides that at least two bids be secured, a decision be made and the work begun so that it can be completed before classes start in the fall.

In other action, the Board passed a resolution unanimously regarding the termination of Georgann Dobbs, a bus driver charged with excessive and unauthorized absences and violation of the Last Chance Agreement entered into by Dobbs and a representative of the Ohio Association of Public School Employees (OAPSE).

As for personnel, David Deem was re-employed on a supplemental contract as Meigs Middle School Athletic Director for the 2012-13 school year. Charles Knopp was hired as assistant varsity girls basketball coach on the recommendation of Amber Ridenour, head coach.

During the meeting, Christina Musser, food service supervisor, reported on a grant for next year to be used to purchase fruits and vegetables for students. She said there is a six percent per student incentive program which should amount to $1,600 to $3,000 a month to cover the additional food cost. Bill Frances, assistant principal at Meigs High School, discussed end-of-year activities and gave a status report on the school’s security system.

Michael Barnett, curriculum and federal program director, talked about textbook and other change proposals for the elementary and middle schools and the input and feedback he is getting from the teaching staff. Kristen Baer, elementary principal, also presented to the Board some information on the independent reading program which has been initiated at the school.

Also at the meeting, Mark Rhonemus, treasurer/CFO, presented the five-year financial forecast which showed the district moving into a deficit position in 2014. Details of that report will be provided in a future edition of The Daily Sentinel.