Goodrich-The board voted 6-0 on Monday night to purchase six new school buses to replace aging vehicles in its fleet of fifteen.Board Secretary Dan Keller was absent.
‘Our dirt roads continue to cause damage to our buses,? said Superintendent Michelle Imbrunone. ‘The technology on the newer buses requires too many parts to keep on hand for repairs. Another big factor will be a significant improvement in fuel costs.?
The district intends to purchase six 77-passenger Blue Bird buses to be financed through an installment purchase agreement for the sum of $476,778. The district will purchase the buses from Holland, Michigan-based Holland Bus Company.
‘We had considered leasing buses, but our study indicated bus purchase was better for the distrtict,’she added. ‘Our bus fleet is aging and we need to stay on a regular rotation to keep newer vehicles. We are expecting to turn buses back in every three years or so. I don’t want to be in a position to play catch up.?
Ken Haverkate, sales manager of the Holland Bus Company, said changes in diesel emissions requirements since 2004 have required several changes in the industry.
‘Cleaner burning and more efficient diesels coupled with improved fuel economy have changed the buses over the past decade,? said Haverkate. ‘The rough roads are pretty much a factor all school districts have to deal with when buying buses. Both dirt road and even city driving deal with potholes. School districts have been using the air ride option’it’s a little more costly, but the buses are better equipped for the rough roads.?