School committee tables transportation contract amid member concerns over service levels and background checks

The Methuen School Committee on Sept. 8 postponed a vote on a proposed transportation contract after members raised multiple concerns about performance standards, enforcement and background checks.

Member Shabelia moved to approve the contract and described parents’ complaints about rude dispatchers and late buses, saying “there’s nothing in this document to guarantee or even put some teeth to them providing I don’t even wanna say a quality service, but a less than horrendous service.” Members called for clearer service‑level agreements (on‑time performance, reporting of breakdowns), proof of vehicle maintenance records on request and assurance that substitute or cover drivers are subject to the district’s background‑check standards.

Committeemembers debated provisions for penalties and remedies if the vendor fails to meet requirements and voiced particular concern about a possible loophole in which a driver or monitor might be placed on a route before a full fingerprint (FBI) check is complete. Several members said CORI checks alone were insufficient for this role and asked that the district require FBI fingerprint checks for drivers and monitors who transport Methuen children.

The committee asked attorney McNulty and the administration to collect specific redlines and to return a revised draft. A motion to table the contract passed after public discussion; the committee will solicit edits and legal review and invited redlined feedback before the next meeting.

Ending: The contractor’s proposed contract was tabled to allow the committee time to request additional performance measures, tighten background‑check language and ensure enforceable remedies prior to approval.