Council approves public‑works vehicle purchases after one recusal, vote 3-1

The Meridian City Council approved a set of equipment and vehicle purchases for public works after a councilmember asked to be recused. A council member asked staff to confirm that vehicles in the purchase order were not duplicates of vehicles already approved in the capital-expenditure list. Staff explained the order included two large crew trucks priced about $91,000 each and other unit pricing that combined for the required purchase. The council granted a recusal request and then approved the item, with a recorded result showing the measure carried by a 3-1 vote. Why it matters: Fleet replacement and capital vehicle purchases affect service delivery across multiple departments and represent a significant capital outlay for the city. Discussion vs. decision: Discussion focused on whether the listed vehicles were already in the capital plan and the unit prices; a council member recused and the purchase was approved by a split vote. Next steps: Purchasing and fleet staff will proceed with the purchase orders and confirm delivery schedules.