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Board voices preference for hybrid option as state electric-bus resolution discussed
Summary
Board members said district infrastructure and utility limits make an all-electric bus mandate impractical now; several recommended allowing hybrid-electric or multiple options. A district official noted required reporting on electric-bus progress and significant infrastructure upgrades for many districts.
Marion Central School District board members discussed a state resolution about electric school buses and signaled that the district prefers options that include hybrid-electric vehicles rather than a mandate for 100% battery-electric buses.
During board reports and discussion, members said the district cannot currently support a transition to fully electric buses because local utility infrastructure would require significant upgrades. "If they're going to force us to go to electric buses, a hybrid bus option would be a better option," Chair (speaker 1) said, adding that hybrid buses would "suit us better" if the district must choose between options.
Speaker 10 (school business official) noted reporting requirements: "Every school district is now required to submit an annual report regarding the progression of EV buses," and said around half of districts' needed work would involve "significant upgrades" to infrastructure. Board members urged that statewide guidance allow flexibility so districts can pick the option that works best locally; one member suggested providing feedback through the board's representative to the state association (Amber).
No formal vote on a local policy was recorded at the meeting. Board members stated they would provide feedback through existing channels (Amber and the state association) and that their preference is to preserve district options rather than adopt a blanket 100% electric mandate.
The discussion highlights operational and infrastructure constraints small and rural districts face when statewide targets for bus electrification are proposed.
