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Commission approves $46,408 mini excavator purchase to aid storm debris cleanup
Summary
Bourbon County commissioners approved a $46,408.27 purchase of a mini excavator to speed storm cleanup, with public works staff estimating about $9.5 million in storm-related damages and noting FEMA reimbursement is expected but not guaranteed.
Bourbon County commissioners approved the purchase of a mini excavator to assist with storm debris removal after public works staff estimated roughly $9,500,000 in county storm damage.
Public works staff described extensive washouts, culvert failures and debris across county roads and told commissioners they had driven every road to document damage. "Our estimate... we're at 9,500,000 is what our estimate was," a public works representative said, outlining the scale of damage and the need for additional equipment to restore roads and crossings.
Staff requested approval to buy a Sourcewell SY35CU mini excavator for $46,408.27. The request noted that FEMA reimbursement is expected for eligible cleanup work and that a special equipment fund could cover the purchase if reimbursement does not materialize. "If we're reimbursed, you'll possibly take that line and pay it off," a commissioner said during discussion of financing the purchase.
A commissioner moved to approve the purchase and a second was offered. The board approved the purchase by voice vote.
What happens next: Public works plans to use the excavator for debris removal and culvert repair; staff will pursue FEMA reimbursement for eligible costs and may use the special equipment fund if necessary.
