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Board hears plan for 10 electric buses and interim retrofits after summer heat concerns
Summary
District staff told the board a grant will provide 10 electric, air‑conditioned buses for Jericho in spring 2026; two AC buses arrive this September and about six contractor‑owned buses remain without AC, with retrofits costing ~ $15k–$16k per bus.
District staff reported that 18 large contractor‑owned buses lacked air conditioning after recent heat waves and that 1st Student and the district won a grant to purchase electric buses. "We will be receiving... 10 electric buses with air conditioning" for Jericho use in spring 2026, staff said, and two additional air‑conditioned buses will be available this September, reducing the number of non‑AC buses to six.
Staff explained retrofitting the remaining six large buses would cost approximately $15,000–$16,000 per vehicle and would not be feasible before September given lead times for equipment and installation. The speaker suggested the board consider whether to fund retrofits or wait for contracted replacements; staff also committed to notifying parents if particular buses lack AC during future heat events. Public commenters urged the board to fast‑track retrofits or provide interim protections for students on non‑AC buses.
