Hewitt council approves $37,957 purchase to replace totaled parts-department pickup

The Hewitt City Council on Jan. 21 approved the purchase of a replacement pickup truck for the parts department following an automobile accident that totaled an existing city truck.

Public Works staff reported the city’s 2019 Ford F150 (Unit 472) was declared a total loss after a November accident and that the other party’s insurer agreed to pay $21,377. The staff presentation said the cost of a replacement listed through a state contract with Chastain Ford is $37,957 and that the remaining difference would be $16,580 after insurance proceeds.

During the meeting Doctor Bruce moved to approve the purchase. The motion as recorded in the transcript: "I move to approve the purchase of a 2024 Ford F 150 4 by 2 regular cab from Chastain Ford for the amount of 37957." Mister Turner seconded the motion. The motion passed on a 6-0 vote.

The staff report contained an inconsistency: while the agenda item and the motion reference a 2024 Ford F150, the staff narrative said a commensurate 2019 Ford F150 was located on BuyBoard state contract at the $37,957 price. The council record does not show a separate amendment or clarification resolving the model-year discrepancy during open session.

Why it matters: The council approved an unbudgeted purchase that will use insurance proceeds plus approximately $16,580 in city funds to complete the replacement, and staff indicated the purchase came via a state contract.

Next steps and implementation: Staff listed the vendor as Chastain Ford and indicated the procurement is through BuyBoard/state contract; the parts department will implement the purchase and apply the insurance proceeds toward the replacement cost.