Georgia school district considering selling used tractors, bringing in private landscapers

A district in Georgia is considering a change for its yards.
A district in Georgia is considering a change for its yards.
If its plan to privatize its lawn care services is successful, a school district in Georgia may sell some of its used tractors and equipment, according to a report from the Newton Citizen.

The Newton County School System has asked the board of education to approve its plan, which would see two private companies provide care for lawns and athletic areas. The contracts are worth more than $281,000, and could provide savings of more than $250,000 every year.

As it currently stands, school properties are maintained by 11 school system employees. If the plan is approved, these workers would be offered open janitorial positions. Furthermore, between $300,000 and $400,000 worth of used tractors and equipment would be sold after a year, provided the new services are deemed successful.

Many municipalities and school districts have considered using outside services in order to handle lawns and grounds. The goal for a number of these organizations is to find ways to save money, as budgets became tighter as a result of the economic downturn.