Ripley approves budgeted backhoe purchase under state contract for $140,469.31

The Board of Mayor and Aldermen approved the purchase of a 4420 backhoe per a quote from Thompson Machinery in the amount of $140,469.31. The item was included in the current year's budget and will be procured under a state contract. Board members noted they had reduced vehicle purchases elsewhere in the budget and that this is the only heavy equipment purchase planned at this time. City staff said delivery is expected in September or October and that the purchase order will be placed to get on the manufacturer queue. The motion to purchase passed by roll-call vote.