Gates Chili BOE: Regular Business Meeting 3.24.26

The Gates Chili Central School District Board of Education held a regular business meeting on March 24, 2026, which included several procurement and budget-related discussions. Key procurement topics included updates on the district's electric and diesel bus fleet, highlighting the purchase of 15 electric buses and infrastructure improvements such as new chargers. The district is planning to apply for a waiver to continue purchasing diesel buses through summer 2027 and is managing a six-year bus replacement plan with a $2.35 million capital outlay project to fund bus purchases, aiming to reduce costs by using reserves instead of bonding. The board approved a three-year agreement with the Gates Chili Teachers Association and a capital outlay project for 2026-2027. Additionally, the district provided a detailed budget update, outlining a proposed 4.8% increase focused on maintaining instructional programming, rising personnel and energy costs, and capital project financing. The budget includes provisions for mental health support, advanced academic courses, and professional development. The board also approved the appointment of Dr. Mitchell Ball as superintendent and set dates for the annual meeting and election. Overall, the meeting emphasized fiscal responsibility, ongoing capital improvements, and strategic planning for transportation and educational services.