For school districts across New York, filling up those diesel tanks is getting a little more expensive for buses running multiple routes a day.
In Jamestown, the district was paying $2.79 per gallon for diesel fuel at the start of the fiscal year in July, compared to $4.19 now, an increase of a $1.40.
“It affects everybody a little bit different in the state depending on where their fuel is actually coming from,” said John Spacht, director of transportation, Jamestown Public Schools.
Spacht says that’s because each district across 62 counties contracts with the state, and depending on the supplier, pays less than the retail price at the pump.
Data shows all districts were paying between $2.50 and $3.00 a gallon for either regular or premium gas in July, compared to between $4.00 and $4.50 now.
“We did not expect that. It’s obviously concerning. I do feel comfortable where we’re at and what we’re projecting. We will regularly keep up with it,” said Brittnay Spry, Jamestown Public Schools assistant superintendent of finance and operations.
This year, the district allocated $225,000 for fuel and says it’s right on track through June 30 when the current fiscal year ends. Next school year, the district has budgeted $240,000 — a $15,000 increase.
“I do feel comfortable with the number that we have built into the budget for the 26-27 school year, but it will probably be something that we’re tracking as the months pass by,” said Spry.
And continuing to review with Spacht, who is running unopposed for president of the New York Association for Pupil Transportation.
He says while the issue is a top concern, the assignment is clear.
“We’re going to get the kids where they’re going. We have to transport the students regardless,” said Spacht.
Nationally, many school districts are paying well over $5 a gallon for diesel fuel.