Custodial jobs outsourced

Nine custodial jobs with Sturgis Public Schools will be outsourced to a Holland-based company, following action by the district’s board of education Monday.

The nine employees will have an opportunity to join Enviro-Clean, which will cost the district about $500,000 next year. The current contract with district-employed custodians is in excess of $700,000, district officials said.

The new contract, which takes effect July 1, calls for Enviro-Clean employees to earn between $10- and $15-an-hour, with the option of self-only insurance.

Two custodians and about two dozen teachers attended in support of the current janitorial staff members. Teachers who addressed the board said current janitorial staff members are an integral part of the district and are trusted employees who are more in tune with each building’s needs.

District officials indicated they will likely review potential outsourcing of transportation services next year.