Choctaw County approves order for EnterGrange Aspen cutter, financing to follow

The Choctaw County Commission on Oct. 7 authorized the county engineer to submit an order for an EnterGrange Aspen self-propelled cutter at a price the engineer cited as $270,427.90 and to pursue financing for the purchase.

The county engineer told commissioners the piece of equipment is a high-priority purchase for road maintenance. He presented three vendor demonstrations and said all three machines were upgraded compared with older models. The engineer favored the EnterGrange Aspen because it matched the county—s needs, had an acceptable price and local dealer support; he also recommended buying a mulching head option to handle larger brush.

Commissioners asked about lead times and financing. The engineer said lead times ranged from about four to eight weeks depending on vendor and model, and that firm financing quotes would depend on the vendor providing an invoice and a serial number. The engineer stated the purchase would be made through a cooperative procurement program (the meeting referenced Sourcewell membership), and he said financing quotes had been obtained but not finalized.

Commissioner Jackson moved to approve the engineer—s recommendation to submit the order; Commissioner Mosley seconded. The motion passed on a voice vote. The engineer said the county would obtain firm financing quotes once the vendor supplied serial numbers and an invoice, and that financing would be presented to the commission for final approval before delivery.