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Kentwood approves purchase of three DPW service trucks amid rising equipment costs
Summary
The commission approved buying three 2025 Chevrolet service trucks to replace aging 2012 models, acknowledging higher chassis and service-body costs and deferring other equipment to cover the expense.
The Kentwood City Commission voted Feb. 4 to authorize purchase of three 2025 Chevrolet service-body trucks for the Department of Public Works to replace 2012-model vehicles.
Jamie King, speaking for the Department of Public Works, told commissioners the chassis cost $41,913 each this year compared with $33,347 in 2023, and the service bodies rose from $13,220 in 2023 to $20,323 this year. King said the total purchase includes lighting, graphics and a roughly $10,000 contingency and that the purchase will be paid from the DPW equipment fund; some other equipment purchases were delayed to cover the higher cost.
"We've seen a 13% year over year increase in the chassis and a 26% increase year over year on the service bodies," King said, describing an overall inflationary trend in equipment costs. He said the three vehicles being replaced have engine miles between about 135,000 and 205,000 and substantial corrosion to undercarriage components due to salt and plowing operations.
Commissioners asked about transferring equipment such as lights from old trucks; King said much of the older wiring and lighting is not compatible with modern LED systems. Commissioners also discussed options to extend vehicle life, including potential underbody wash systems to reduce corrosion and watching neighboring agencies' experience with new wash facilities.
Commissioner Art moved approval; Morgan seconded. The motion passed on a voice vote.
