Merriam approves purchase of two plow trucks with tariff contingency

The Merriam City Council voted unanimously to approve the purchase of two 2025 International HV507 chassis with Buyers MDS dump-spreader bodies and warning light equipment in an amount not to exceed $551,170.10.

Public Works Director Kumpke told the council the 2025 budget included replacement of two frontline plow trucks purchased in February 2009 and recommended the purchase through a cooperative bid. "We're recommending that council approve the purchase of this equipment in amount not to exceed $551,170.1," Kumpke said, noting manufacturers had flagged possible tariffs on chassis and warning-light equipment.

The recommendation covers two complete units that integrate a salt spreader into the dump bed, removing the need for a separate spreader. Kumpke said quoted chassis lead times are four to six months and manufacturers estimated potential tariffs of up to 10% on chassis and up to 25% on warning-light equipment, producing an estimated tariff total of $25,523.30; the city presented the purchase as "not to exceed" the combined sum so the city would pay actual tariff costs at time of build or could cancel if costs rose substantially.

Ross Davis, fleet superintendent, was identified as the staff member available to answer technical questions. Council members asked whether the purchase was budgeted, the lead time, how the integrated spreader operates, and whether future bid packets could include vendor sales sheets. Kumpke confirmed the purchase was budgeted and said the equipment and vehicles were under budget before accounting for the tariff contingency; the contingency would exceed the original line by about $11,170.10 but could be covered from contingency funds in the current budget.

Council Member Hands moved the approval and Ms. Shatridge seconded. The clerk recorded the vote: Council member Cozmeier — Aye; Council member Hans — Aye; Council member Kaldahl — Aye; Council member Lehi — Aye; Council member Reiter — Aye; Council member Silvers — Aye; Council member Yodrich — Aye; Council member Chavetta — Aye. Motion passes 8-0.

The council discussion distinguished between the decision to place the order (approved) and the remaining procurement risk tied to tariffs: staff said tariff costs will be passed through as documented by suppliers when incurred and the city retains the option to cancel if increases are materially higher than estimated.

Clarifying details in the meeting included: the purchase replaces two 2009 frontline trucks; combined base cost for both units was $525,646.80; estimated maximum with tariffs $551,170.10; estimated tariff placeholder $25,523.30; chassis lead time four to six months. The council did not change specifications at the meeting.