Chase County approves purchase of Kenworth dump truck, authorizes financing

Chase County commissioners voted Tuesday to buy a 2025 Kenworth T880 dump truck from MasterTech Truck & Equipment and authorized staff to solicit financing for the purchase.

The board voted after a presentation from David Williams of MasterTech and county maintenance staff about pricing, warranty options and discounts available on in‑stock trucks. Williams told commissioners the dealer could apply a program discount and a credit tied to repairs on a previously serviced truck, reducing the county’s net purchase price.

Commissioners were briefed on a 7‑year, 200,000‑mile extended warranty that covers engine after‑treatment, transmissions and other major components. “That total package” including telematics and towing coverage, Williams said, could be offered at a reduced price under the dealer’s municipal program.

The county’s maintenance superintendent outlined how the county plans to repurpose older dump‑truck beds into semi‑tractors later in the fleet cycle to stretch equipment life and reduce purchase costs. Commissioners and staff also discussed tariffs and changes to emissions and electrical systems on future model years, and noted that in‑stock 2025 models avoid some of those near‑term uncertainties.

Commissioner discussion focused on timing, financing structure and whether to proceed now or delay until later model years. County staff said the dealer’s quoted price and discounts were valid through June 11 and recommended moving forward while the stock and discounts remain available.

The motion, which included authority for staff to seek bank financing with consistent parameters across lenders, passed by voice vote. Commissioners instructed the county manager to return with financing proposals and payment schedules that fit next year’s budget.

The county’s roads superintendent said the plan is to keep the county’s replacement schedule on a roughly 10‑year rotation and to convert earlier dump trucks into tractors when practical, which he said reduces total lifecycle cost. He also said the county will revisit the plan if market conditions change.

The county will now solicit financing terms and finalize the purchase order with MasterTech. Staff said they expect lead times of roughly 45–60 days for delivery from available stock and will return to the board with a recommended financing package.

Ending: Commissioners approved the purchase and instructed staff to seek financing; staff will report financing options and a final purchase order at a future meeting.