Shelby County Board hears dozens of recommended contracts, sales and a June budget amendment

The Shelby County Board of Education heard staff recommendations for more than two dozen contracts, capital projects, property sales and a June budget amendment during a public business meeting. Board members asked questions about several large items, and staff said many matters would return with more detail for the board's vote and oversight.

Among the largest items presented: a $39,370,092 contract renewal with First Student Inc. for student transportation services for 2025—6; a $10,093,995 design-and-construction contract for energy-efficient renovations at Riverview School largely funded by a U.S. Department of Energy Renew America Schools grant; and the proposed sale of the Grays Creek administrative building for $9,000,000. Staff also reported a proposed June fiscal-year budget amendment that would increase the district's total budget by $9,914,559, primarily to add a summer learning camp grant and to align capital and grant accounts with county and state revenue updates.

Board members pressed staff for further detail on several items. Transportation drew extended questions after a board member said the renewal amount is substantially higher than last year's cost; staff said negotiations with First Student were ongoing and promised comparative market data and an…