Council approves new loader and 1-ton truck for public works, with warranty and local support noted

The Riverton City Council approved two equipment purchases for public works on Aug. 19: a standard lift wheel loader for the wastewater treatment plant and a 1-ton 4x4 crew cab work truck with a crane-ready utility box for utilities. Staff recommended buying the wheel loader from Wyoming Machinery (a Caterpillar dealer) for $189,689.55; the selected package included an 84-month unlimited-hour warranty covering parts, labor and travel and was accompanied by a local technician in Lander, which staff said reduced downtime risks. The council approved the purchase after public works explained the plant's existing 2005 loader required frequent repairs. Council also approved a low bid of $81,994 from Fremont Chevrolet Buick GMC for a 1-ton crew cab truck with crane-ready utility box; that purchase was within the council-approved FY2026 capital allocation. Council members asked about warranty, tires and delivery; staff said tires and standard equipment were included and that fleet staff had vetted the bids. Council asked staff to continue prioritizing equipment reliability and to maintain vehicle replacement schedules in capital planning.