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Board hears plans for new buses, driver recruitment option and fuel‑contract solicitations
Summary
District staff told committee it plans to order five regular and two special‑education buses, discussed equipment cost increases and delivery timelines, proposed a temporary higher‑hourly spring option to recruit midyear bus drivers, and recommended soliciting diesel and unleaded fuel proposals ahead of a March contract expiration.
Committee members heard an overview of the district’s annual bus purchase and recruitment challenges. "This year we're going to do five regular and two special ed buses," a committee speaker said, describing an adjustment from last year’s purchase to account for an increasing special needs population.
Staff said added equipment increased the cost for regular buses by about $4,200 and for lift buses by about $2,500. Delivery timing varied: staff referenced an existing order showing an expected mid‑March delivery for 2026 and said other orders can take 10–12 months depending on the manufacturer; staff identified North Carolina as the manufacturing location for the referenced order.
On recruitment, Kate Rogers said 15 applicants previously offered bus‑operator positions declined because of pay. To address midyear hiring, staff proposed a temporary, higher‑hourly "permanent substitute" option for the spring term without benefits, giving candidates a choice between that rate or a prorated full‑time salary; Rogers said the district estimated the option’s annual cost at about $19,000 per person in the model discussed at the meeting.
Committee members asked whether offering alternative pay options could create internal competition; staff replied the full‑time positions with benefits should remain the most attractive option and that the temporary hourly choice is designed to fill midyear vacancies without disadvantaging current employees.
Staff also said the district will solicit proposals for diesel fuel after the current contract ends in March. "This will be a one‑year contract with a three‑three‑year renewal," staff said, noting the unleaded contract ends on the same schedule and will be solicited concurrently.
No final purchase or contract awards were made in committee; staff will bring purchase orders and solicitation results to the full board for action.
