Dunn County moves forward on loader specs and authorizes equipment auction list

Dunn County highway staff received committee approval March 12 to advertise specifications for a larger 3.5‑yard loader and to place a range of surplus equipment on a public auction.

Staff said the new loader specification increases the operating weight to about 35,000 pounds, requests a 3.5‑yard bucket, a specified coupler attachment and a full five‑year bumper‑to‑bumper warranty. The county will not trade in an existing loader and expects vendors to provide breakout force and tipping-weight details with bids. Staff asked for a quick procurement schedule with proposals due in early April to allow award before the next committee meeting.

Separately, staff presented a list of surplus items recommended for sale, including smaller loaders, older one‑ton trucks, skid steers and miscellaneous equipment that have high maintenance costs and low utilization. Committee members said the county should reduce idle equipment and preserve only machines needed for reliable year‑round service. The committee approved placing the equipment list on public auction (online marketplace used by Wisconsin counties).

The committee approved moving forward with both actions by voice vote; staff will post the loader specifications to bid and list authorized surplus equipment for auction. Staff will return with bid tabulations and recommendations for purchase and sale.

Ending: Staff will solicit bids for the loader with an early‑April response deadline and will list surplus equipment for auction; results and recommended awards will be presented to the committee later this spring.