Commissioners approve purchase of used hot‑mix pothole patcher after staff inspection plan

Staff described a used permanent hot‑mix pothole patching truck located in Miami (identified as a 2015 model with roughly 32,000 miles and about 5,000 hours) listed at $45,000 and recommended the county pursue purchase and on‑site mechanical inspection before finalizing the sale.

Commissioners contrasted the used unit price with a new unit, which staff estimated would cost $250,000–$320,000 with long lead times (8–10 weeks for a chassis plus 4–6 weeks to build the body). Staff said the vendor and manufacturer can supply schematics and parts after purchase; the 2015 unit has heated, oil‑jacketed hot‑mix storage and a hopper to collect spoils from cutting potholes.

A motion to proceed—conditioned on additional data gathering and mechanical inspection by two county mechanics—was moved and seconded; the commission approved the motion unanimously. Commissioners discussed funding that was cited in the transcript as being paid out of "Floss 5." Staff said they would dispatch two mechanics for an on‑site inspection before handing over payment.

What happens next: Staff will arrange mechanical inspection and return with inspection findings and final purchase paperwork. Commissioners noted the purchase is intended to shift the county away from short‑lived cold patch repairs toward permanent hot‑mix repairs.