District issues RFPs for 2025 and 2026 bus leases; officials cite infrastructure costs as barrier to electrification

Assistant Superintendent Hildebrandt informed the board the district has issued two RFPs for replacement bus leases because several current leases are due to expire. The 2026 RFP covers three 54‑passenger buses with wheelchair lifts used for special education transport; those leases are expected to expire in March and district staff moved the RFP forward early because of possible supply‑chain delays.

A separate RFP covers five buses with leases expiring in July 2025: two 54‑passenger special education buses without lifts and two 77‑passenger buses. Hildebrandt said both RFPs specify standard replacement units (not additions to the fleet) and offer unlimited miles in the lease terms, similar to current contracts.

Trustees asked about electric buses. Hildebrandt explained electric buses are under consideration in some districts and grant support may be available, but they also require substantial infrastructure upgrades (garage footprint and charging equipment) and specialized mechanic training. She said the district currently operates diesel and propane buses and can accept diesel or unleaded fuel at the garage; the district can accommodate propane but is trying to steer away from it for future procurement. Given the infrastructure and training needs and the complexity of the existing fleet mix, she said electrification is not a good fit for Waterford at this time.

The RFPs were informational; no contract awards were made at the meeting.