The Finance Committee of Albuquerque Public Schools convened on September 24, 2025, to discuss several significant expenditures aimed at enhancing district operations and services. The meeting focused on three main agenda items, each requiring approval for purchases exceeding $500,000.

The first item addressed was the purchase of six new passenger buses, presented by Deputy Superintendent Antonio Gonzalez and Executive Director of Transportation Services Royce Binns. The proposed expenditure totals $903,646, funded by the New Mexico Public Education Department. The buses include two 71-passenger and four 48-passenger models, which are essential for meeting the district's transportation needs. The committee members expressed support for the purchase, noting the importance of having adequate bus drivers available for the new vehicles.

Next, the committee considered an expenditure of $800,000 for procuring locally grown foods from New Mexico produce growers. This initiative, presented by Gonzalez along with Food and Nutrition Services Executive Director Marie Johnson, aims to provide fresh produce for students in district cafeterias. The funding for this purchase will come from federal sources, and committee members highlighted the value of supporting local businesses through this procurement.

The final item on the agenda involved a proposed $4 million expenditure for commercial and residential appliances, necessary for food and nutrition services across the district. This multi-year purchase will utilize capital and operational funds and is designed to support the functionality of school kitchens. Gonzalez reiterated the importance of this procurement in maintaining efficient food service operations.

Throughout the meeting, committee members expressed their support for each of the proposed expenditures, recognizing their potential to enhance student services and support local economies. The committee concluded with a call for further questions, but none were raised, indicating a consensus on the proposed actions. The next steps will involve formal approval of these expenditures in the upcoming board meeting.