Confused By The School Board’s

Inaction

To the Editor:

I have been attending the recent Board of Education meetings regarding the busing issue. I am very confused as to why MTM has not been awarded the contract. The elected officials on the Board of Education are speaking for the voters and the voters have loudly said to leave the entire bus system alone.

At the first meeting, which was also the only one the owners of All-Star have attended, Mr Dufour stated that they usually do not bid against the small companies, they go after the large ones. They were requested to bid and told that the system was changing. This statement was videoed and can be found in The Bee archives.

MTM was the lowest bid for the full five-year package. However, breaking the package apart and awarding the four sections separately would save the town money.

Ms McClure repeatedly stated, at this meeting, that we have to get this budget passed the first time. Then the vote was put off for the busing until two days after the budget referendum. These actions left many with the feeling that the budget passing on the April 28 would allow us to keep our bus system.

The meeting on the 30th was a very emotional one for the voters. Both companies had sent in new prices, and, surprise, the company that had been asked to bid (All-Star) had lower numbers. Dr Robinson stressed the need to solve this issue so she would have accurate numbers. Again the vote was 3 to 3 and rescheduled for May 5.

On May 5, the owners of MTM Transportation promised to meet All-Star’s bid. If this had been about money, that should have ended it. It was obvious that MTM has the support of the majority of Newtown. Mr Nanavaty suggested that the superintendent, finance director, and transportation director get together and cast the deciding vote. Gratefully, that motion failed 5 to 1. Kudos to Joe Borst for speaking out of order and saying they couldn’t do that.

MTM has been questioned on their ability to buy the seven new buses they will need for the next year. Their accountant was there and assured the board they would be able to comply. They did six years ago when they started from scratch; I am sure they will continue to supply Newtown with the great service we have come to expect.

All-Star will have to purchase 36 new buses. I am curious about the fact that there doesn’t seem to be any concern over that. I am also concerned that if MTM does not receive the contract they will be out of business and All-Star can come back for more money as they did just recently in New Milford. I will put my trust in my fellow Newtowners, the co-owners of MTM Transportation.

Sincerely,

Leon Demers

43 Bear Hills Road, Newtown                                         May 13, 2009