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Lynn Haven approves purchase of non-CDL vacuum truck after debate on CDL training
Summary
The commission approved a $371,000 purchase of a Ford F-550 non-CDL vacuum truck to provide backup sewer/stormwater capacity and reduce reliance on CDL drivers, and discussed plans to fund CDL training for staff.
The Lynn Haven City Commission on Nov. 12 approved a resolution to purchase a Ford F-550 diesel vacuum truck from Jet Vac Equipment Company LLC for $371,000, reallocating $51,000 budgeted for another item to complete the purchase.
Staff said the city bought its first vac truck in 2021 and still uses that vehicle daily; the new non-CDL model would give staff flexibility for after-hours responses without needing a CDL-certified operator. Interim City Manager Lightfoot and other staff explained the operational rationale: the non-CDL unit holds about 4 yards compared with 12 yards for the primary vac truck, so it requires more trips but enables wider staffing coverage and faster responses when the main unit is down.
Public commenters and several commissioners expressed concern about the city’s shortage of CDL-qualified employees and urged a training program and personnel audit. Staff said the FY2026 budget includes training funds to sponsor CDL certification (estimated $2,500–$3,500 per employee) and that the city will offer tuition with a service-payback clause.
Residents also asked whether the current vac truck would be sold; staff said the city had a market quote around $221,000 for the existing unit but also noted the older truck remains in regular use. The commission approved the purchase on a roll-call vote.
