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Board opts into KISTA equipment program to buy buses, discusses electric bus grant
Summary
The Rowan County board voted to participate in the KISTA equipment acquisition program to access lower-interest purchases of school buses; members discussed fleet needs, delivery timelines and a pending electric-bus grant.
The Rowan County Board of Education voted to opt into the KISTA equipment acquisition program, a statewide pooled purchase option that allows districts to buy school buses at lower interest rates and to sell used equipment.
Board members were briefed on fleet needs and procurement timing. A presenter explained many districts buy four to five buses a year; that pace is necessary to maintain a fleet of about 40 active buses because buses typically have about a 10-year life. “If you can get 10 years out of the bus, you’re lucky,” the presenter said, noting the district’s need to replace several buses annually.
Members also discussed a pending grant for electric buses and said the district is holding off on large diesel purchases until grant outcomes are clearer. The presenter noted that bus prices have risen: a 74-passenger bus that once cost about $64,000 now approaches $175,000 per bus.
The motion before the board authorized participation in the statewide program; participation does not obligate the district to purchase a specific number of vehicles tonight. The motion was moved, seconded by Mr. Scott, and approved by voice vote: “Aye.”
Motion: “Opt into the KISTA equipment acquisition program.” Outcome: Approved (voice vote).
Board members said expected delivery timelines generally have a district ordering in the fall and receiving buses the following summer, though atypical delays can occur depending on the manufacturer. The board said participation preserves the option to use low-interest financing and to sell used vehicles through the program.
