Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Transportation And Capital topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board hears $696,000 bus purchase plan, approves change orders and new architects as construction advances
Summary
Springfield Public Schools staff proposed buying six used air-conditioned-capable buses for $696,000, reported $643,458 in change orders to keep construction projects moving, and the board approved architectural contracts for the Bissett/VISTA project; Pipkin and Reed timelines were updated.
The Springfield Public Schools Board heard a package of transportation and construction updates Wednesday that will move multiple projects forward while the board prepares for the June 24 formal consent votes.
Sean Dilday, facilities and transportation lead, told the board the district identified six used 77-passenger Type C buses with less than 30,000 miles and full warranties and asked the board to approve trading older, high-mileage buses to purchase the six for $696,000 as part of the district’s regular fleet rotation. Dilday said the district also plans targeted HVAC retrofits on newer buses to increase the portion of the fleet with air conditioning.
Board members asked whether more energy-efficient options were being pursued; Dilday said staff had preliminary conversations with larger districts about electric buses but have not pursued them fully due to operational concerns and mixed life-cycle cost results for propane units. He confirmed the district received rebates previously on propane purchases.
On construction, Dilday reported the month’s change orders and agreements total approximately $643,458 to keep projects moving and provide materials and subcontracted work outside the base construction bids. He updated the board on Pipkin and Reed: Reed is expected to finish in spring with occupancy for the next school year; Pipkin is progressing aggressively and staff remain optimistic about an early move-in.
The board approved the presented change orders by voice vote (motion carried with seven votes) and later approved a contract to pair Oakey Thomas and Associates with FGM Architects to provide architectural services for the Bissett/VISTA project; that motion also passed by voice vote with seven votes.
During capital discussion, members raised the indoor practice facility concept and asked staff to pursue options and cost estimates rather than fund immediate construction; staff said any large facility would follow a bond-style, multi-step decision process and could be phased across FY26–27.
The board adjourned the study session at 07:17.
