Road department discusses fleet replacements and specialized mowing equipment; purchases deferred to budget process

MILLER COUNTY, Ga. — Road department staff briefed commissioners July 14 on quotes for a replacement box plate, boom-mounted cutters, an excavator and other attachments and discussed how additional equipment could speed roadside mowing and trimming. Staff presented three quotes for different boom lengths (22‑, 24‑ and 26‑foot) and explained tradeoffs: longer booms reach further but can be less durable when cutting heavy trees; the Alabama Department of Transportation representative advised against extendable booms for heavy tree work. Staff also described a larger mower head and articulated performance advantages seen during demonstrations. Commissioners and staff discussed financing and timing. One commissioner said he favored waiting until the budget process to plan for a purchase of an excavator or replacement equipment and to evaluate trade‑in or financing options. Staff reported the existing Alamo and limb‑cutting equipment have minor issues but have performed adequately recently. No purchase motions were made; commissioners directed staff to gather additional price and financing information and to consider equipment purchases during the county’s budget cycle.