Big Hike In Elmhurst D-205 Bus Costs

ELMHURST, IL – The Elmhurst school board on Tuesday approved a 17 percent increase in its bus contract for the next school year.

The increase was caused by increases in driver wages, gas prices and fixed costs such as rent, utilities and maintenance, according to the district.

The wages are being driven up by labor shortages, a trend that is affecting many districts. Even before the pandemic, finding bus drivers was a struggle.

Elmhurst School District 205's contract is with Cincinnati-based First Student, which has provided the service for years.

At a school board meeting, Assistant Superintendent Chris Whelton recommended the board approve the contract.

"I am very focused on trying to keep expenditures in line with revenues. Generally, revenues are a 3 percent increase," Whelton said. "This is a tough one in that it is a 17 percent increase in this contract. But this is what First Student needs to provide us the busing services."

He said the company has provided good service.

"We have a good partnership with First Student," Whelton said. "It's not perfect by any means. We had a bus break down this week. We occasionally have a bus driver who will be sick at the last second. Occasionally, we have late buses. But they work hard to address the concerns and get us the information, so we can get it out to parents."

Board member Karen Stuefen said Whelton is managing the issues with First Student.

"I appreciate the detailed contract you provided us, which talks about penalties," she said. "The parameters around the penalties are really good, holding them accountable."

The board unanimously voted for the contract.

It also approved a contract with Villa Park's Cottage Hill Operating Co., which provides special education bus services. The new agreement increased costs by 13 percent.