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Board approves multi-year bus-lease plan with Midwest Transit after discussion
Summary
After a detailed presentation on fleet needs and costs, the board approved a lease plan with Midwest Transit covering staggered multi‑year leases for roughly 20–24 buses; administration said electric buses are not feasible now and buying buses would cost about $146,000–$160,000 each.
The Mahomet-Seymour CUSD 3 Board of Education on Jan. 20 voted to approve a multi-year bus-lease plan with Midwest Transit following an extended presentation from Dr. Koehler on fleet needs and financing options.
Dr. Koehler outlined a plan that staggers lease terms across the fleet so the district avoids large single-year spikes in replacement costs. He said the district is considering leasing about 20–24 buses and remains concerned about high up-front costs for electric buses; "The infrastructure to put electric buses in is very cost prohibitive right now," he said, also citing cold-weather efficiency concerns.
On acquisition costs, Dr. Koehler said 2020-era buses would cost about $146,000 apiece with cameras and warranty, while new buses run roughly $160,000 each. He described warranties on leased buses as effectively "bumper to bumper" for covered mechanical issues, with deductibles for intentional damage or neglect.
Board members asked about purchasing options, warranties and whether the district could acquire returned/used buses from other districts; administration said some fleets are contractually tied to bus companies and that used buses are not guaranteed. Dr. Koehler also noted the district currently has more buses than routes because of a driver shortage and said the district will keep evaluating buy vs. lease decisions in future years.
A motion to approve the lease with Midwest Transit passed on a roll-call vote.
