Board authorizes RFQ for transportation; district to seek negotiable contracts and routing proposals

The Red Wing school board authorized a request for quotes (RFQ) to solicit transportation services for fiscal year 2027 and beyond, choosing an RFQ process that preserves the district’s ability to negotiate terms with vendors.

Thomas (transportation consultant) told the board that state law permits contracts of up to 10 years but cautioned that long fixed‑price agreements are uncommon; he recommended requiring prospective contractors to present routing proposals and noted the district currently pays roughly $70,000 a year for third‑party routing services (Tom, SEG 1316–1346). Tom also flagged a timeline that targets a draft contract by late January or February and urged that contractors bring routes and routing plans early in the annual cycle.

Administration noted the RFQ differs from a sealed RFP and allows negotiation. The board discussed options including evaluating a single‑tier routing model for all regular, special‑education and extracurricular routes, with the acknowledgment that single‑tier routing could add cost but might simplify operations (Administration, SEG 1270–1276; SEG 1310–1320).

The motion to call for the RFQ was made, seconded and carried with recorded 'Aye' votes. The superintendent said he will follow up with Thomas (consultant) and district staff to begin the RFQ process (SEG 1396–1415).

What to expect: the RFQ will be posted, vendors will be asked to provide routing plans and the district anticipates negotiating rather than using sealed bids; final contract timelines and any long‑term price structure will be decided through the RFQ/RFP cycle and subsequent board actions.