Lehighton Area School District and Panther Valley School District have formalized a five-year equipment-sharing agreement that allows either district to borrow the other’s grounds, custodial and maintenance equipment at no charge.

The school board approved the memorandum of understanding Monday night as part of its consent agenda. The agreement, described in board materials as a measure to “improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and support educational and facility operations,” covers a broad range of equipment including snow removal machinery, construction and maintenance tools, athletic field maintenance equipment, portable generators, lifts, and trailers.

Neither district is obligated to lend equipment under the agreement, and availability is not guaranteed. Requests must be made by a superintendent, business administrator, director of buildings and grounds, or other authorized representative, with reasonable advance notice whenever practical.

The lending district retains the right to approve or deny any request based on its own operational needs.

The borrowing district bears responsibility for transporting equipment to and from the lending district, and must ensure only trained and authorized personnel operate it. Day-to-day upkeep during the loan period, including fueling and cleaning, falls to the borrowing district as well.

Normal wear and tear remains the responsibility of the lending district, but any damage resulting from negligence, misuse, or failure to follow manufacturer guidelines would be the borrowing district’s financial responsibility.

Any accident, theft, vandalism, or damage must be reported immediately.

Unless the districts otherwise agree in writing, no fees will be exchanged for equipment loans.