HCPS FL Logo Business
Action Item
DATE: Tuesday, June 10, 2014
TO: School Board Members
FROM: MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS
Approve the Amendment and Scope of Work for School Bus Consultants, Inc. - Request for Proposal (RFP) #13104-DST Transportation Consultant (Facilities Division)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
On January 21, 2014, the School Board accepted the selection of School Bus Consultants, Inc. (SBC) to contract as an outside consultant to provide various recommendations.  SBC completed their initial scope of work with the presentation provided at the May 7, 2014, Board Workshop. 

The scope of work suggested for the next engagement is twofold.  First, is a requirement to review and provide feedback regarding the Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) Transportation Improvement Plan.  Second, is to perform a comprehensive study and in-depth analysis of alternative fuel buses and all of its implications.   Report requirements will include an examination/of compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG or propane), biodiesel, and diesel-electric hybrid.

The required review will encompass  an examination of vehicle acquisition cost, infrastructure, fueling stations, fuel markets and costs, training (for mechanics and drivers), on-going maintenance, fuel consumption (MPG), research regarding potential grants and rebates, emission reduction factors along with case studies, lessons learned, and best practices. A total cost of ownership, payback analysis, and suggested future plan will be part of the delivered report. SBC will be required to be available for Board meetings, consultation and Board Workshops. 

SBC is the largest consultancy dedicated to the profession of student transportation program design and are experts in the field of school transportation and have no business affiliations with any vehicle manufacturers, fuel vendors, or infrastructure providers, which could bias the provided information.

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
• Demonstrate best financial practices • Demonstrate "best practices" in all aspects of safety including students, employees, visitors, facilities, transportation, and health
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted:  Yes)
Funds of $35,000 will be available in the Division of Facilities/Transportation Department budget.
EVALUATION
The School Board shall be provided all SBC findings, when available, upon completion of services.
SUBMITTED BY:  Jean Bowman, General Manager, Procurement Department
Christopher Farkas   Gretchen Saunders
Chief Facilities Officer
(813) 272-4004
  Chief Business Officer
(813) 272-4270
    A 6.08
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20140610_634 (Board Meeting) * Section A Item# 6.08