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Board approves purchase of two buses, discusses electric bus experience and tax credit
Summary
Board approved buying two 78‑passenger buses (one wheelchair‑equipped). Members discussed rising bus prices, a pilot with electric buses, and staff pursuit of a federal tax credit for electric bus infrastructure and purchase.
The Amanda‑Clearcreek Local School District board approved the purchase of two buses and discussed the district’s recent experience operating electric buses.
The item presented for board action listed two 78‑passenger buses, one of which includes a wheelchair lift. Board members noted that new diesel buses are now priced in the $150,000–$160,000 range compared with roughly $110,000–$120,000 in prior years. Staff described a fleet‑rotation approach to keep spares and replace vehicles on a regular cycle.
Board members and staff also discussed the district’s two electric buses. A member said drivers have been positive about the electric vehicles and staff are tracking cold‑weather performance: “The two drivers of the electric buses have still been very positive while driving them,” a board member said. Staff said they are pursuing an Internal Revenue Service tax credit tied to electric‑vehicle purchases and infrastructure; the finance office expects to report a projected credit amount by next month.
The purchase motion was seconded and approved by roll call.
Why it matters: transportation is a significant capital expense and affects operations, special‑needs transport and trip capacity; electric buses offer potential operating savings but require upfront infrastructure and tax‑credit paperwork.
What’s next: staff will report next month with an estimated tax‑credit amount and any revised net cost calculations for electric bus purchases and infrastructure.
