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Scobey K-12 Schools board approves purchase of activity bus, conditioned on sale or trade of existing cruiser
Summary
The Scobey K-12 Schools board voted to buy a replacement activity/cruiser-style bus now available in-state, provided the district can sell or trade its current cruiser; the board noted the purchase would temporarily deplete the transportation fund and rely on depreciation to rebuild balances.
The Scobey K-12 Schools board approved acquiring a replacement activity bus on a condition that the district can sell or trade its existing cruiser, board members said.
Director (S2) told the board the district’s transportation committee had originally prioritized a custom 50-passenger yellow bus but learned a 54-passenger yellow bus was available in-state for about $40,000—roughly $30,000 less than the custom option—and that the vendor was offering the district first priority with the vehicle expected to be ready Jan. 1. "They do have 54 passenger yellow buses in stock in our state for about $40,000, $30,000 cheaper," Director (S2) said.
The director warned that buying the in-stock bus would draw the transportation account down to zero until depreciation rebuilds funds. "If we move on this, we are not talking anything transportation for a year," Director (S2) said, noting several district fleet vehicles are fully depreciated and that depreciation will be needed to restore purchasing capacity.
Committee member (S3) moved to acquire the bus "as presented." Chair (S1) seconded that motion. After discussion about route coverage, fleet rotation and resale prospects for the cruiser, Committee member (S3) proposed amending the motion to make the purchase contingent on the district’s ability to sell or trade the existing cruiser; the amendment was seconded (no second recorded by name in the transcript). Chair (S1) put the amended motion to a voice vote; members responded "Aye" and Chair (S1) declared the motion passed.
Board members discussed resale value for the current cruiser, estimating a private-sale value in the range of $5,000–$8,000 if a buyer is found; they also noted some buyers salvage engines or convert vehicles to recreation vehicles. Chair (S1) said the board would need to confirm acceptable disposal or sale of the cruiser before taking delivery of the replacement.
The board did not take a roll-call vote; the action was approved by voice vote and no tally was recorded. The meeting adjourned immediately after the vote.
