Pelham board declares eight buses surplus, authorizes auction contract

PELHAM, Ala. — The Pelham Board of Education on July 28 declared eight district buses surplus and authorized the superintendent to pursue a contract with Southeast Auction Company to auction the vehicles.

Staff told the board that the eight buses proposed for surplus include three 2009 models and five 2013 models. The district packet listed each vehicle; the board approved declaration of surplus property so the vehicles may be sold.

Superintendent Doctor Costanza said replacement buses have already arrived or are on order. During discussion staff said nine or 11 new buses have arrived or are on the way, and the district expects routing to be covered for the start of school.

The board authorized the superintendent to negotiate with Southeast Auction Company and return the finalized contract to the board for approval after auction logistics and vehicle pricing are set.

Formal action: board approved both the declaration of surplus for the eight buses and authorization for the superintendent to move forward with an auction contract by voice vote.

Why it matters: Declaring vehicles surplus is required by law before public sale; staff said the replacements are in place so student transportation will not be disrupted.