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Finance committee OKs authorization to price out Kubota utility vehicle with snow attachments
Summary
LaSalle finance committee authorized staff to price and order a Kubota utility vehicle for parks use with provisions to accommodate a snowblower and blade; members discussed durability, diesel vs. gasoline, warranty and shared use with streets department.
The LaSalle Finance Committee voted to authorize park and finance staff to price and pursue purchase of a Kubota utility vehicle for the Park and Recreation Department, with the intent to add a snowblower and blade attachments.
Committee members heard that the two models under consideration were a Kubota (diesel) and a John Deere (gasoline). Linda, the park director, told the committee the Kubota has a larger bed and, based on vendor and peer advice, “the Kubota is gonna last us longer.” She said both machines have warranties but that she would confirm warranty details for both units if the committee wished.
Committee members and staff discussed operational trade-offs: diesel engines and winter performance, compatibility of snow-removal attachments, and competing seasonal needs between streets and parks. One member noted a snowplow kit “you could get a kit for it and put a snowplow on it,” and staff suggested the streets department could borrow the parks unit when needed. Finance Director John said the appropriation for the Kubota was considered during the budget process but that no appropriation ordinance has yet been passed; he said the final appropriation can be adjusted when the ordinance is prepared.
After discussion, Alderman Bemis made a motion (seconded by Alderman Thompson) to authorize the park director, finance director and other designated staff to price and proceed with purchasing a Kubota that can accept a snowblower and blade; the motion passed on roll call.
The committee directed staff to confirm warranties and availability with local dealers and to return any additional procurement details in the appropriations paperwork. The committee also agreed to allow Streets to borrow the unit when necessary rather than Streets purchasing a separate machine.
The authorization is procedural: the final purchase and appropriation will be reflected in the formal appropriation ordinance the council must approve.
