Board of Education meeting - Feb. 25, 2026

The Bethlehem Board of Education held a meeting on February 25, 2026, focusing extensively on the 2026-27 budget cycle. Key procurement-related discussions included the transportation department's bus fleet replacement plan, highlighting challenges with electric vehicle (EV) buses, their operational costs, and grant funding opportunities such as the New York State Bus Improvement Program. The board reviewed the financial impact of transitioning to EV buses, including a potential $135,000 reduction in revenue from bus sales due to scrappage requirements tied to grants. Technology budget items included a smart bond initiative to replace aging educational technology devices, with plans to submit applications to New York State pending board approval. Operations and maintenance presented capital outlay requests for safety and security upgrades, including door monitoring systems and security camera replacements. The board also discussed a $149,200 energy audit contract awarded to NV5 Global, Inc., aimed at guiding upcoming capital projects and energy conservation measures. The meeting concluded with approval of various finance and personnel action items and set future meeting dates for continued budget deliberations.