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Jackson County approves purchase of asphalt paver to begin strip‑paving program
Summary
After reviewing three vendor options, commissioners approved buying a Caterpillar-model asphalt paver (CAP AP655/P65?) and authorized staff to proceed with training and deployment. County staff said the purchase can be funded from the general fund cash balance and that crew assignments will be adjusted to operate a county paving program.
The Jackson County Commission voted on Feb. 24 to approve the county’s purchase of an asphalt paver to support an in‑house strip‑paving program.
Public works staff presented a comparison of three manufacturers — the transcript-listed options included Vogele, Caterpillar and Rotech — and recommended the Caterpillar machine (identified in meeting discussion as the preferred option). Staff described dealer support, warranty comparisons and training plans and said local dealer and specialist support is available in the Huntsville area.
Funding and staffing: County finance staff told the commission the purchase could be paid from the county’s general fund cash balance without endangering core reserves, noting reimbursements from prior FEMA projects will replenish part of the balance. Public-works leaders said the county’s existing crew of roughly 32 positions would be reorganized to support a sustained paving program; staff proposed assigning crews on paving days while preserving other essential functions (bridge work, herbicide and mowing) when critical.
Why it matters: Commissioners said in‑house paving would speed repairs on county roadways and reduce reliance on contractors. Staff cautioned that successful deployment depends on sustained crew availability and training; county staff committed to training and to an aggressive paving schedule should the commission proceed.
The vote: After discussion and a motion to set aside rules, the commission approved the purchase by recorded vote. Staff said delivery timelines are likely measured in weeks and that start‑up training would follow dealer schedules.
Ending: Commissioners approved the purchase and instructed staff to proceed with ordering, training and scheduling for the upcoming paving season.
