Rankin CSD 98 awards transportation contract to Alltown; superintendent authorized to negotiate five-year deal

The Rankin School District #98 Board of Education voted 6-0 on March 2 to award the district's transportation contract to Alltown Bus Service and authorized the superintendent to negotiate a five-year contract to be presented for final approval at the board's March 23, 2026 regular meeting.

Dr. Gordon, a district staff member who briefed the board, said two companies submitted bids—Central Illinois School Bus and Alltown—and that Alltown was the apparent low bidder. He told the board Alltown plans to house buses off campus but within the Pekin area, and that district checks of references for Alltown produced positive reports. Member Leann Kohl moved the award and Member Nena Cox seconded; a roll call vote showed all six present members voting yes and the motion carried 6-0.

In his presentation, Dr. Gordon said the Alltown bid is more expensive than previously projected and represents a significant increase over this year's transportation costs, but he and Mrs. Gaddy reported analyses showing leasing buses for an in-house transportation operation would be costlier than contracting with Alltown. Dr. Gordon recommended the board approve the award and authorize him to negotiate a five-year agreement, noting contracts for shorter terms were more expensive.

The board directed the superintendent to return a negotiated agreement for board consideration at its March 23 meeting. The superintendent also presented district budget projections that he said show the potential for multi-year deficit spending, an issue the board will continue to monitor as it considers the contract terms and broader budget choices.