The outline of Cincinnati Public Schools' nearly $1 billion building proposal is nearly a go.

        “Unless, of course, we change our minds,” joked board of education president Rick Williams.

        Board members on Wednesday raised a few, but not many, questions about the decadelong plan, which includes building 35 schools and renovating 31 others. More than 20 buildings would close.

        This was the board's first facilities committee-of-the-whole meeting since the plan was altered March 20. Members are expected to vote on the revisions May 20.

        Because the plan is arranged in four phases over the decade, there would be room to change it even if the board approves the proposal as is, said the district's business executive, Kent Cashell.

        The district wants to approve the proposal now so the master plan can be sent to the state for review. If Cincinnati and the state agree on the plan, the state will contribute around $205 million for the $1 billion project. That's provided that the district can come up with the rest.

        The first construction would begin this summer on a new Rockdale Academy at its Avondale site.

        Board member Cathy Ingram said she's still uneasy about some site locations being considered for new schools, but credited the administration for the changes it has already made to the plan.

        Board member Harriet Russell said she believes the district must develop a policy to make sure school construction contracts go to responsible and responsive bidders before the May vote.

        Sally Warner, also a member of the board, summed it up the general feeling when she said: “This means this is essentially the plan.”

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