Powering Up Scott Lane Elementary: New EV Chargers Energize the Campus

Scott Lane Elementary is leading the charge in sustainable transportation, as the school district has installed a network of 11 ChargePoint electric vehicle (EV) chargers on campus. This move not only supports eco-friendly commuting for staff and students but also opens up the opportunity for the community to access these charging stations outside of school hours. The decision to implement this infrastructure was made at the Board of Trustees meeting on September 12th, where the district also determined the pricing structure for the use of these chargers.

Unlocking the Future of Sustainable Mobility at Scott Lane Elementary

Charging Ahead: The New EV Chargers at Scott Lane Elementary

The installation of 11 ChargePoint EV chargers at Scott Lane Elementary marks a significant step forward in the district's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Michal Healy, the Director of Facility Development and Planning, has been instrumental in this project, working to ensure the chargers are ready for use once the pricing structure is finalized.The charging stations will be available for use by staff, students, and the general public, with specific time slots allocated for each group. During school hours, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, the chargers will be reserved for staff and students. After these hours, the community will have access to the charging stations.

Determining the Charging Rates: A Balanced Approach

The pricing structure for the use of the EV chargers was a key topic of discussion at the Board of Trustees meeting. The district considered two options: Option 1, where staff and the public would pay the same rate per kilowatt-hour (kWh), and Option 2, where staff would receive a discounted rate.After careful deliberation, the Board opted for Option 1, with a unanimous 5-2 vote. This decision was influenced by concerns raised by Board Vice President Bonnie Lieberman and UTSC President Margie Wysocki, who expressed concerns about the equity implications of offering a staff discount. They argued that providing a discount to staff with EVs could create an unfair advantage compared to staff with gas-powered vehicles.The rates for the EV chargers will be determined by the average direct daily kWh cost, plus a 20% markup. This markup will cover a 10% maintenance fund and a 10% ChargePoint cost. For the public, a station use fee will be charged after three hours of connection, per hour. However, staff will only be subject to this fee on non-school days.

Expanding EV Charging Infrastructure Across the District

The installation of EV chargers at Scott Lane Elementary is just the beginning of the district's efforts to promote sustainable transportation. The California Building Code requires the inclusion of EV charging stations in new parking lot constructions, and the district is taking advantage of this mandate.Upcoming projects at Briarwood, Bracher, Laurelwood, and Westwood Elementary Schools will all feature EV charging infrastructure. Additionally, the district is working to coordinate an agreement with Silicon Valley Power to fund the installation of more EV chargers at Santa Clara and Wilcox High Schools, as well as the Educational Options Campus.These initiatives demonstrate the district's commitment to creating a more sustainable future, not only for the students and staff but for the entire community. By providing accessible and affordable EV charging options, the district is empowering individuals to make eco-friendly transportation choices, contributing to a cleaner and greener environment.

Navigating Budgetary Challenges: Balancing Revenues and Expenditures

Alongside the implementation of the EV charging stations, the Board of Trustees also addressed the district's financial landscape. Mark A. Schiel, the Deputy Superintendent of Operations and Chief Business Official, presented the 2023-2024 Unaudited Actuals, highlighting both positive and challenging aspects.One notable observation was the decrease in property tax revenue compared to previous years. While the 2023-2024 fiscal year saw a 4.7% increase, the district typically projects a 5% increase, and historically, they have often seen a 7% increase. This shift in revenue has contributed to the district's deficit spending, which reached a $21.6 million difference between expenditures and revenue in the last fiscal year.However, the district remains optimistic about its financial future. Board Member Andy Ratermann inquired about when the district could be done with deficit spending, and Schiel indicated that their latest analysis suggests they should be out of deficit spending within the next two to three years.Additionally, the unaudited actuals revealed some positive financial developments. The district has received $125,000 from a class action lawsuit regarding vaping products, which they can use for future smoking prevention initiatives. Furthermore, the district secured funds from Proposition 28 last year to implement plans for arts and music education, which are now being implemented this academic year.As the district navigates these budgetary challenges, the implementation of the EV charging stations at Scott Lane Elementary serves as a testament to the district's commitment to sustainability and its ability to find innovative solutions that benefit both the environment and the community.