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Committee backs purchase of two utility trucks after debate over diesel vs. gasoline for sewer service truck
Summary
The committee recommended buying a 1-ton street truck and a sewer utility service truck; members discussed diesel versus gasoline engines and replacement, disposal, and funding for the replaced vehicle.
The Budget and Finance Committee on Feb. 11 recommended that the Village Board approve purchases of two vehicles: a 1-ton truck for the street department for $75,958 and a sewer utility service truck for $118,759.
The 1-ton truck purchase was described by staff as a scheduled replacement funded from the utility replacement fund; the committee approved the recommendation by voice vote.
The sewer utility service truck drew more discussion. Staff said the diesel chassis was selected for its idling and torque characteristics; committee members questioned whether a gasoline chassis would perform adequately and noted diesel exhaust and emissions systems can complicate long-term maintenance. One committee member said, “I don’t know if I agree with...that the extra torque can significantly affect the service truck performance,” and noted experience with other municipal vehicles that use gasoline engines without reported issues. Staff said the replaced truck will be sold on Wisconsin Surplus and that utility replacement funds, not borrowing, are being used.
Wells moved and Matt seconded the motion to recommend approval of the sewer utility truck; the committee approved the recommendation by voice vote.
The committee also discussed that the utility’s replacement schedule is typically every 10 years and that mileage for the vehicle being replaced was not available at the meeting.
Both purchases will advance to the Village Board for final approval.
