Dubois County approves $60,000 equipment appropriation; highway staff weigh purchase of used side‑mount mower and review Holland dumpster site offer

The Dubois County Board of Commissioners approved an additional appropriation of $60,000 from the highway fund to the county's equipment repair line to cover higher‑than‑usual vehicle and heavy equipment maintenance costs.

County highway staff told the commissioners they have experienced more breakdowns this year, including multiple excavator and truck repairs that required out‑of‑county work. Staff recommended moving $60,000 into equipment repair so mechanics can continue in‑house work and send some repairs out as needed. The motion to approve the appropriation was moved, seconded and carried by unanimous voice vote.

Highway staff also updated the board on a private offer for the county to purchase the Holland dumpster site. The seller's realtor, Judd Collette, offered the site at $35,000 but indicated willingness to reduce the price to $30,000 provided he retain a perpetual right to lease most of the parcel and lease the remaining land back to the county for about $600 a year. Staff noted county purchasing rules would require two appraisals and, for purchases above $25,000, additional formal steps such as a resolution of interest before acquisition could proceed. Commissioners asked staff to explore subdividing the parcel or seeking a partial purchase if the seller is amenable.

Facing repeated public complaints that roadside vegetation has outpaced available mowing capacity, highway staff proposed trialing a cheaper, used side‑mount/batwing mower rather than immediately buying a new $150,000 machine. Staff reported they found an older tractor and a 15‑foot back wing that could be refurbished for roughly $30,000 and suggested testing it through the end of the season and into next spring to evaluate effectiveness before committing to a major purchase. Commissioners agreed to let staff pursue a used trial unit and to bring back a report after one season.

The board did not authorize a purchase beyond the approved appropriation and asked staff to follow county procurement rules for any purchase. Commissioners and staff also discussed operational tradeoffs: keeping one operator assigned to mowing could improve visible roadside conditions but should not compromise bridge or safety work priorities.

Ending: Highway staff will proceed with the equipment repair appropriation as approved and will pursue options for a trial side‑mount mower and further due diligence on the Holland dumpster parcel. The board asked staff to return with assessments and, if necessary, formal purchase actions at a later meeting.