The ODY community voted down a proposal for the purchase of an electric school bus — with 23 yes to 48 no votes.
Proposition 2 on the September 24 ballot was defeated by voters as well with 28 in favor and 43 opposed. That second proposition, which aimed to create a capital reserve fund for future school transportation purchases, became unnecessary when voters rejected the purchase of an electric bus, however.
The EPA’s Clean School Bus rebate program would have paid nearly half the purchase price of the $450,000 electric vehicle—or $200,000—leaving the district to cover the balance through its Bus/Transportation Reserves plus monies from the general fund. To meet the EPA funding deadline, the school district was required to hold a public referendum this month.
Superintendent Brennan Fahey thanked all who participated in Tuesday’s vote. He added that the state’s mandate for districts to fully transition to electric fleets within the next decade presents significant challenges for rural schools like ODY.
“In areas like ours, there are infrastructure concerns related to charging and electric bus capabilities that would be needed to effectively service every corner of our district for the cost,” said Superintendent Fahey.