In summary for me:
I would not have chosen 135, the 350 has been ideal and remains a good choice.
However....... the 135 is a great aircraft for pilots. Simple, ultra ultra reliable, economical and has superb avionics. Part of the simplicity is the lack of rotor head, it simply doesn't have one! This means autos and sloping ground are difficult. Difficult, not impossible for students. For crewmen?? Two doors, small cabin and low roof. Not ideal. You will need minimal kit and alpha helmets to reduce back and neck problems.
The 145? Older mechanical technology giving a smoother ride and easier handling. Fabulous avionics. If that winch is too far out, has anyone suggested a modification? Anything can be done if someone pays.
These aircraft have many cons and more pros. They will do, and in the current financial climate they will have to do.
Many of these arguments were put forward about aircraft choices when DHFS was formed and you all coped admirably, you can do it again. Give them a chance, then complain if you need to