The Thermal Systems Task Force presented its recommendation for Option 2B to the Board of Trustees for the first time on Tuesday, March 12, following their submission to University of Oregon President John Karl Scholz in February. 
Some students following the project and the task force anticipated a decision at the Board of Trustees during the March 12 meeting. 

But according to UO spokesperson Angela Seydel, Scholz and the Board will take more time to examine the task force’s recommendation, given the magnitude of the impacts and potential investment of the university in future meetings.

The earliest a request for any capital project would come forward to the Board is likely next fall or winter term, delaying the project up to one year. 

Scholz is evaluating the task force’s recommendation in light of many factors, including the university’s overall budget, tuition, enrollment, labor negotiations and the university strategic plan, due later this spring, all of which impact the university’s overall budget.

Students recommend option 4, the heat recovery chiller with alternative source, due to the option having the highest estimated reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. If or when Scholz moves forward with Option 2B, which was recommended by the task force, or any other option, it would be presented to the Board as a request for approval for a capital project. 

The Board will continue to discuss the task force’s findings and recommendations, including how to fund this system in context with the projected budget status, enrollment, labor contracts and other strategic priorities.

This is a developing story. Please check back for more updates.