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Commissioners agree to pay balloon note on Precinct 3 rubber-tire mower and plan auction to replenish Road & Bridge funds
Summary
The court voted to pay a final balloon payment of $144,000 on a Caterpillar rubber-tire excavator/mower assigned to Precinct 3 and to auction equipment afterward; commissioners discussed use of Road & Bridge funds and a plan to replace proceeds to the general equipment fund.
Newton County Commissioners Court authorized paying the final balloon payment on a Caterpillar rubber-tire excavator (with mower head) assigned to Precinct 3 and directed staff to pursue auctioning county equipment to replenish funds.
Commissioners discussed the machine’s balloon payment (reported in the meeting as about $144,000) and options: pay the balloon, retain the machine, or return it. A majority of the court supported paying the balloon note and placing the machine and other surplus equipment into auction. Staff explained the county could draw funds from Road & Bridge General to pay the note and then place proceeds from the auction back into the Road & Bridge General fund; precincts would make up any difference if auction proceeds did not fully restore the fund.
Commissioners discussed the machine’s operational limitations and history (acquired in 2018, used as a side boom mower, described as cumbersome for some uses). The court motion to pay the balloon note passed after a second; commissioners asked staff to report back if auction proceeds fall short so the court can determine how to cover any remaining amount.
The court also approved placing other specified equipment into an upcoming auction (several items were referenced during the meeting). Staff said minimums will be set and equipment will be marketed; auction timing will be determined and reported to the court.
