McAlester approves $520,000 Vactor utility truck purchase; staff to finalize financing and warranty

The McAlester City Council approved purchasing a 2025 Vactor vacuum/jet truck (used for sewer and stormwater maintenance) to replace a frequently failing older unit. Staff presented cost comparisons showing high cumulative repair expense and rental costs that exceeded the cost of replacement over time.

Staff reported the truck price is approximately $520,000. Finance staff approached local banks for financing; the recommended offer from First National Bank was an 84‑month loan at about 4.85 percent, producing an estimated monthly payment of roughly $7,313. Staff asked the council to authorize financing and to allow staff to evaluate purchasing an extended warranty (the dealer offered a standard 12‑month warranty with an option to purchase an extension).

Council approved the purchase and financing authorization. The council asked staff to return with warranty pricing and finalize terms quickly because equipment prices and lead times are rising; staff noted that contractors and rental costs are high when the in‑house unit is out of service.