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Committee weighs buying a 15‑passenger non‑CDL bus; members ask staff to inspect a $25,000 candidate
Summary
Committee reviewed multiple used 15‑passenger non‑CDL options (prices from roughly $25,000 to over $100,000), discussed features (handicap lift, storage, mileage) and authorized staff to inspect a lower‑cost local candidate before bringing a purchase recommendation to the full board.
The Joliet Elem Transportation Committee considered purchasing a used 15‑passenger, non‑CDL activity bus to free teachers from driving activity trips and add scheduling flexibility for sports and field trips. Members reviewed multiple offers and discussed features such as wheelchair lifts, rear doors for equipment, automatic tire chains and interior condition.
Scott, the district bus driver, described three options: an older 2013 vehicle with higher miles, a 2016 unit in good condition and a newer 2018 vehicle with upgraded interior features; one dealer offered a delivery option (about $4,400). The committee also discussed a substantially cheaper local option for about $25,000 (a former shuttle vehicle) that staff said could be inspected in person and returned the same day if it did not meet expectations. Chair and members noted the lower‑cost option lacks a built‑in handicap lift (some 15‑passenger configurations include two wheelchair positions) and discussed how to reserve one vehicle as accessible if a student with mobility needs moved into the district.
Committee members noted earlier budget discussions: a prior budget target around $50,000 had been discussed for vehicles, and committee members said approved budget authority had been raised to approximately $80,000; members said purchasing a cheaper vehicle would leave room for any immediate repairs. The committee discussed operational constraints for activity trips (fuel cards, driver check‑out procedures) and underscored the need for a consistent process to check drivers out and assign fuel/payment cards.
In conversation about procurement steps, members agreed it made sense for a staff member referenced in the meeting to travel to Casper to inspect the $25,000 candidate, ask the dealer to hold it for a few days, and report back. The committee asked staff to confirm licensing/inspection history and any outstanding mechanical items before returning to the board with a final recommendation.
No formal recorded purchase vote appears in this segment of the transcript; the committee discussed inspection authorization and next steps to bring a purchase recommendation to the full board.
