After heated debate over bus conditions, school board awards fleet mechanic contract to Tyrone’s Detail/Auto

The St. John the Baptist Parish School Board on March 10 awarded the district’s fleet mechanic contract to Tyrone’s Detail/Auto, amid sharp debate over the condition of the bus fleet and the vendor solicitation process.

Mrs. Janice Gauthier, who presented the procurement item, said only one timely proposal qualified under the posted RFP; she stated a second proposal arrived late after the adjusted opening time and was rejected. Board members raised concerns about documentation of vendor performance and fleet condition.

Board Member Debra Schum said transportation records on the pre-proposal meeting indicated “23 of the 70 buses are not operable,” noting that figure represents about one-third of the fleet. Schum argued the condition of the fleet supported re-advertising the contract or awarding a shorter term. Supt. Lynett Hookfin said she recommended re-advertising in light of the fleet condition and concerns about vendor oversight, stating the need for stronger procedural documentation.

Several substitute motions were offered (to reject all proposals and re-advertise; to award a one-year contract; to table). Those substitute motions failed or were withdrawn. The original motion to award the contract to Tyrone’s Detail/Auto carried on roll call: 7 Yeas (Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams), 3 Nays (Holden, Keller, Schum), 1 Absent (Jones). The contract amount stated in the packet is $255,000 annually.

Board members asked administration to provide documentation of fleet status and to strengthen vendor evaluation procedures going forward.