Staff flags sharp truck price increases; board asks for lease vs. buy numbers

Staff told the board it is recommending replacement of an older single‑axle plow truck with a tandem‑axle model to improve route efficiency and reduce returns to the salt shed. The presentation emphasized substantial cost increases since 2019 and longer equipment lead times.

Staff provided figures showing the chassis price rising from about $135,000 in 2019 to $189,431 in 2026 and an upfit cost rising from about $76,000 to $126,730, producing an estimated total of about $316,161 — roughly a $104,487 increase compared with prior purchases. Staff also said typical lead time is about 90 days for the chassis and argued upfit might take about six months.

Board members discussed financing options, including paying from reserves versus leasing to spread the cost but pay interest. Staff said they would return with both lease and purchase scenarios and suggested staggering replacements across multiple years to smooth budget impacts.

No purchase was approved; staff will present firm quotes and a lease-versus-buy comparison at the next meeting.