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McPherson County approves truck purchases and authorizes emergency building sewer repair
Summary
The McPherson County Commission approved the purchase of a flatbed and a Kenworth truck for public works, authorized an $8,240 emergency sewer repair at a county building and discussed bridge inspection costs and several ongoing road projects.
The McPherson County Commission approved multiple public works purchases and an emergency repair contract during its regular meeting.
David Bond, McPherson County public works director, recommended buying a hybrid aluminum/steel flatbed for a newly acquired 2025 Ram crew truck from Horst Trailer Sales in Beloit, Kansas, and the commission approved the purchase not to exceed $10,150 installed. Bond said the toolboxes on that bed will accommodate sensors and equipment used by the county’s asphalt crew, freeing cab space and improving storage.
Bond also requested authority to purchase a 2016 Kenworth W900 with a wet kit, saying the truck is spec’d for heavy hauling and has relatively low miles. The commission authorized the purchase up to $87,000, subject to Mike Evans’ inspection. Bond told commissioners the truck is located in Kansas City and that a final decision may be revisited if the inspection raises issues.
The commission declared a building sewer issue an emergency and approved a turnkey repair contract with X Services of Wichita not to exceed $8,240. Bond said he received two quotes: one from a local contractor that would have required trenching throughout an interior space at more than $20,000, and the lower X Services quote to trench into an unused office and tie to the main line outside the building. Bond said X Services can begin work quickly and will handle any utility damages.
Commissioners also discussed county bridge and road work. Bond reported progress on milling and asphalt overlay projects, ongoing culvert and emergency bridge repairs, and an Inman Box culvert replacement. He said federal bridge-inspection scheduling and the cost to inspect 461 bridges over 20 feet (one consultant estimate was about $550 per bridge) have raised concerns about long-term staffing or consultant needs. Bond said the county will likely hire consultants while training engineering technicians over the next two to three years.
No formal funding changes for bridge inspection were approved at the meeting; commissioners asked staff to continue gathering proposals and to present options in a future work session.
The commission’s approvals were recorded by motion and voice vote with the chairman calling "aye" to carry each measure.
