Newberg council approves $420,631.96 purchase of diesel street sweeper

The Newberg City Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2025-3980 on July 21 authorizing the city manager to purchase a diesel-powered street sweeper for $420,631.96 to supplement the city's electric sweeper.

Russ Thomas, the city’s director of public works, told council the two sweepers are different designs: the electric unit uses a hydrostatically driven system, while the conventional diesel model the city proposed uses a crosswind, high-volume vacuum configuration that staff said is better at removing heavy material from state highways, can sweep while backing up, and will improve efficiency during leaf season.

Thomas said one existing conventional sweeper needs a transmission repair estimated at $28,000 while its post-repair value would be about $40,000, making repair uneconomical. He said electric sweepers can require long maintenance downtimes (he cited an eight-day recent maintenance event) and that operating both types would extend the life of each unit by allowing them to alternate use.

Thomas said the proposed purchase is available through Sourcewell, a national cooperative purchasing agreement, and meets Oregon procurement requirements (ORS 279). He also noted staff had evaluated several models and selected one manufactured in the United States and suitable for Newberg’s mix of flat and crowned streets.

Councilor (name not specified in the record) moved to adopt the resolution; the council voted by voice and the mayor announced the motion passed unanimously. The approved resolution authorizes the city manager to complete the purchase through Sourcewell pricing.

During the discussion, councilors and staff noted the purchase was included in the adopted budget. No amendments or alternative funding sources were proposed during the meeting.