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Harper Creek buys replacement lift bus for $185,850; district uses PILT funds for buses
Summary
Trustees authorized purchase of a replacement lift bus from Midwest Transport at $185,850 for students with wheelchairs; staff emphasized the district has historically purchased buses with PILT funds.
The Harper Creek Board on May 12 authorized the purchase of a replacement wheelchair lift bus at a cost of $185,850 from Midwest Transport to serve students with specialized transportation needs.
Why the purchase was needed
Transportation director Stacy Hannon told the board the district operates three lift buses and one of them needs replacement. Hannon said the district was unable to locate a suitable used lift bus and requested authorization to buy a new unit that meets the district’s needs, including air conditioning.
Funding and district practice
Administrators noted that the district has historically purchased buses using PILT (payment in lieu of taxes)/casino funds rather than the general fund. During discussion Ridgeway said, "For people in the audience or those listening at home, we purchase all of our buses with PILT money. Every bus we purchased in the last 10 years has been PILT money, has not come out of the general fund." Board members approved the purchase by roll-call vote.
Ending
Staff said the district will continue fleet maintenance and evaluate long-term options such as leasing, but for now recommended retaining ownership of the fleet and replacing the lift bus as authorized.
