New Haven Independent

Aramark, which been the school system’s provider of food and facilities since 1994, currently has a $1 million contract with the New Haven schools system. The city has an option to extend its contracts to the 2008-09 school year, but has opted to open both contracts to competitive bidding on July 1.

In a statement, schools chief Reggie Mayo said the school system hasn’t had many complaints with Aramark until recently.

“However, we are sensitive to the concerns that have been raised and we will open up the process in an effort to determine the best option for the Board of Education effective July 1, 2008,” said Mayo. “A key issue will be cost effectiveness.”