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Board flags cost, power and range concerns as state deadlines for electric buses approach
Summary
Superintendent briefed the board on state rules that require zero‑emission school buses after June 30, 2027 for purchases/leases and for 2035 for all buses; members discussed costs (electric ~$400k vs diesel ~$125–150k), charging infrastructure and rural range limits and said they will pursue a waiver and regional study.
The superintendent told the board the state expects districts to show "good faith planning and progress" on electric‑bus adoption and warned of near‑term deadlines for purchases and leases.
Superintendent Marra said school buses purchased or leased after June 30, 2027 must be zero‑emission and all buses in operation after 2035 must be zero‑emission. He told the board that electric buses currently cost about $400,000 compared with roughly $125,000–$150,000 for a diesel bus and that installing necessary charging infrastructure and securing additional power from utilities are major barriers for this rural district.
Board members and staff discussed operational challenges: cold weather and mountainous routes reduce electric range; some districts are being told by their utility providers they cannot supply the additional power required; and the district may need more buses or different routing to allow charging cycles. The superintendent suggested applying for a purchase/lease deadline waiver for 2027 and commissioning a transportation study to evaluate route and infrastructure needs before committing to purchases.
The board agreed to continue the conversation in February and to seek regional cooperation (including CVES assistance) on a study and possible waiver application.
