Panel duties

(1) The panel shall: (a) determine criteria for: (i) the allowed uses of capital project fund resources described in Sections 53F-10-301 and 53F-10-302 and the prioritization of proposed capital development projects, including the extent to which a proposed project: (A) eliminates risks to student life and safety through renewal or replacement; (B) enhances efficiency of use, including combining necessarily existent small schools, described in Section 53F-2-304; (C) addresses essential program growth and capacity; (D) provides a cost effective solution that is appropriate for the facility's need; and (E) comports with the school district's provision of matching funds and sufficient revenues for ongoing operation and maintenance; (b) evaluate capital development project proposals to ensure viability, efficiency, and adherence to education and construction standards; (c) prioritize capital development projects; (d) recommend that the state board distribute capital project funding to school districts; (e) if necessary based on the circumstances of the capital development project, in partnership with the division, oversee the capital development project; and (f) report to the state board regarding the panel's actions. (2) The panel may: (a) determine that a technical assistance liaison is necessary for an eligible school district applying for capital project funding under this chapter to efficiently complete the project; and (b) facilitate engagement with the division or a willing school district partner having the required technical expertise in similar capital development projects.