Selectboard approves $273,890 sidewalk plow after repeated complaints about winter clearing

Town staff told the Selectboard that the existing trackless sidewalk machine is past its useful life and frequent repairs meant sidewalks were sometimes not cleared, leading to ice formation and resident complaints. Staff recommended purchasing an MT7 Trackless unit with a five‑position plow and 150‑gallon magnesium chloride spray system through a Sourcewell cooperative contract for $273,890 so two dependable units will be available for the 2026–27 season.

The Board approved the purchase 4‑0 and agreed to defer purchase of a scheduled cold planer and tow‑behind sweeper to keep the purchase within the highway equipment capital plan. The Town Manager noted the price includes approximately $25,000 in federal tariff costs and said the funding will be covered by reallocating the existing highway equipment capital plan.