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Cheltenham SD weighing early $563,000 Chromebook purchase to avoid tariffs
Summary
The Financial Affairs Committee discussed advancing a purchase of 1,700 Chromebooks for $563,000 now rather than waiting for next fiscal year, to avoid anticipated 10%–20% tariffs that would raise costs.
District staff told the Cheltenham School District Financial Affairs Committee they are considering advancing the purchase of 1,700 Chromebooks for $563,000 to avoid an anticipated 10% to 20% tariff on technology imports.
"We're looking to advance purchase 1,700 Chromebooks in the amount of $563,000," the staff presenter said, and explained the district would normally wait until July to place the order but that vendors are expecting tariffs that could add roughly $45,000 (10%) to $90,000 (20%) to the purchase price.
Staff said vendors typically lock pricing for 30 to 60 days, and that approving the purchase earlier could produce immediate savings if bids and vendor pricing are favorable. The presenter said the procurement item will be placed on the next legislative meeting agenda for formal approval; no vote was recorded at the Financial Affairs Committee meeting.
Committee members also discussed other potential purchases exposed to tariffs, including vehicle and construction-related materials, and staff noted that global supply and tariff uncertainties have driven price increases in multiple categories.
Ending: Staff said they will move the Chromebook item to the district's next legislative meeting and recommend approval if bids come in at expected prices; no formal authorization was made at the Financial Affairs Committee meeting.
