County told Cat generator ordered for emergency management won't arrive until August; commissioners discuss rental and interim options

Wagoner County staff told commissioners on May 20 that a Caterpillar generator ordered for the emergency management facility has a long manufacturer lead time and — as currently contracted — would not be delivered until August after submittals and approval steps, prompting questions about interim power options.

The county’s procurement follow‑up showed a 22‑ to 25‑week lead time once submittals and approvals are complete. Staff said the original order dates back to February and that the lead time in the vendor’s contract had not been highlighted earlier in the procurement process. Commissioners raised concern that the generator would not be in place for a large portion of severe weather season.

Emergency management staff and other commissioners discussed rental alternatives. Staff reported a quoted rental rate of about $1,200 per week from a local supplier but also noted practical limitations: a rental unit typically requires a compatible transfer switch or manual wiring work, and matching transfer equipment and safe connection arrangements can make short‑term rentals difficult. Putting a temporary generator on site without a matched switch risks hazardous backfeed and is not a straightforward plug‑in solution.

Commissioners asked staff to re‑examine options, including whether different manufacturers or suppliers could provide shorter lead times, whether a temporary solution could be safely implemented, and whether local electrical work could speed an interim hookup. Staff said they would re‑check procurement details and follow up with the vendor and other suppliers.

The board took no final action on the purchase at the meeting; staff said the current signed contract remains in effect and will be re‑examined for opportunities to shorten lead time or identify an interim safe power solution.