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After public testimonial and debate, Quakertown board awards transportation contract to Levy School Bus Company
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Summary
Following public comment and extended board discussion about local ties, outsourcing and RFP impacts, the Quakertown Community SD board voted to award the 2026'2031 transportation contract to Levy School Bus Company contingent on successful negotiations (majority yes, one abstention).
The Quakertown Community SD board voted on March 26 to award the district's multiyear transportation contract to Levy School Bus Company for the 2026'2031 period, contingent on successful contract negotiations.
Public comment shaped the conversation: Warren Levy (Levy School Bus Company) and current drivers emphasized long-standing local ties, community involvement and their staff's relationships with students. "To me, this isn't a job. It's my community," Levy told the board as he urged continuity and cooperation. Driver Gary O'Hama added that local drivers often act as mentors and are uniquely connected to students in ways that benefit safety and culture on buses.
Board discussion weighed competing considerations. Supporters argued Levy's community roots and the logistical advantages of an existing local operator justified the award; one board member argued the RFP process produced useful market information and could spur innovation from vendors. Another board member cautioned that repeated RFP cycles historically produced cost increases and suggested exploring contract extensions when appropriate to control price volatility.
Vote and outcome: The motion to award the proposal to Levy School Bus Company was made and seconded; roll-call results recorded a majority in favor with one abstention (Miss Hahn). The motion passed and the administration will proceed to finalize contract terms with Levy, with the district reserving the right to consider alternatives if negotiations fail.
What the board recorded in follow-up: Administration and board members agreed to use the RFP'learnings to pursue better vendor performance and pledged to press for clear performance metrics in the contract (including driver hiring, local presence and service standards). Board members and the new vendor also discussed driver transitions, special-needs routing and how incumbency might aid continuity for families with children requiring extra support.
Votes at a glance (transportation): - Motion to award the transportation contract to Levy School Bus Company for 2026'2031 contingent upon successful negotiations ' Outcome: Approved by roll call (majority yes; 1 abstention).
