Committee approves $163,390 loader purchase; equipment slightly over budget

The Infrastructure & Environment Committee considered replacing a 2005 wheel loader with more than 6,300 hours. Staff (Mr. Berry) recommended purchasing a replacement using the National Intergovernmental Purchasing Alliance (IPA) contract from Patent Industries for $163,390, noting trade‑in and other incentives and that the amount is approximately $7,400 over the budgeted figure but still manageable within the capital program due to other items coming in under budget.

The committee asked no substantive follow‑up and approved the recommendation by voice vote; the item was forwarded to the council consent agenda for final approval. Staff said the purchase will proceed through the IPA contract and will use trade‑in and other incentives to reduce net cost.