A report from the Maryland State Board of Education has deemed the Montgomery County Public Schools’ (MCPS) contract for electric buses as illegal. This $168 million deal with Highland Electric Fleets violated procurement rules, according to the findings.
Key Findings from the Report
The 11-page report highlights several crucial points regarding the controversial contract:
- The contract was deemed “arbitrary, unreasonable, and in violation” of MCPS’s bidding procedures.
- MCPS terminated the agreement while only receiving 285 of the 326 contracted electric buses.
- Concerns were raised about the financial impacts of shifting from diesel to electric buses.
- The district failed to recover $372,000 from Highland for buses that were not operational.
- Criminal convictions of former transportation officials were noted, raising ethical concerns about the procurement process.
Background on the Electric Bus Initiative
Questions regarding the electric bus initiative emerged last year. Reports suggested that the transition would not result in the claimed “zero net change” in transportation costs. This ignited further scrutiny from the Montgomery County Inspector General.
Concerns Over Mismanagement
Janis Zink Sartucci, representing the Parents Coalition of Montgomery County, expressed her astonishment at the state’s findings. She noted, “I have certainly never seen a decision by the Montgomery County Board of Education declared illegal.”
Future Implications for MCPS
While the contract has been terminated, MCPS plans to maintain its relationship with Highland Electric Fleets. The district continues to lease the buses and charging stations, leaving taxpayers responsible for ongoing lease payments.
Official Response
In response to the state board’s ruling, MCPS stated that it is currently assessing the implications of the decision. Some community members criticized the board for spending substantial legal fees rather than directly addressing the ongoing issues.
