Board approves $1M USDA foods purchase order, $2M produce extension and $6.5M food distribution contract for FY27

At its June 15 meeting the Berkeley County Board of Education approved a package of child‑nutrition procurements to support the 2026–27 school year, including USDA foods, produce purchases and a primary food‑distribution contract.

Child nutrition director Mrs. Setney explained the recommendations: an up‑to $1,000,000 purchase order to cover freight and processing costs for USDA foods and Department of Defense fresh produce deliveries; a one‑year extension of the produce contract with Kilmer’s Farm Market (estimated value ~$2,000,000); and continuation of a competitively procured Panhandle 8 cooperative agreement for food products and distribution (estimated ~$6.5 million). The items cover frozen, refrigerated and dry goods, processed commodity conversions, fresh produce and delivery services across the district’s meal program.

"USDA foods include fruits and vegetables, lean meats and poultry, dairy products, whole grain products and other nutritious food items that meet federal nutrition standards," Mrs. Setney said, noting the program helps maximize child‑nutrition purchasing power. The district also approved FY27 extensions for milk and dairy and for disposables and custodial supplies; funding for these contracts and the USDA purchase order will come from the child‑nutrition account (account 61) and associated program grants.

Board members asked about storage, delivery and the district’s ability to accept deliveries on site; staff said new freezer capacity at the Cartageville facility reduces outside storage fees and supports direct receipts. The board approved the items by motion; precise deliveries and allocations will be set in the district’s ordering windows later this summer.