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Commissioners approve purchase of replacement Ford Expedition for county fleet
Summary
Austin County voted to purchase a 2024 Ford Expedition for the county fleet, awarding the contract to the low responsive bidder after correcting a tax quote. Commissioners approved proceeding and authorized accounts‑payable processing up to the approved amount.
Austin County Commissioners Court approved the purchase of a 2024 Ford Expedition for the county fleet on Sept. 23 after staff reviewed two bids. Staff reported two final bids and recommended the lowest correct bidder; the court voted to proceed with the purchase and instructed staff on payment routing.
Staff (Don) said bids were received from Ryan Ford and Cavender; Ryan Ford’s bid initially included an incorrect tax amount but staff indicated the error could be corrected. Cavender’s corrected bid was $45,001.57 and Ryan Ford’s bid, after correcting tax, was expected to be lower; staff recommended awarding to the low responsive bidder. Commissioners then moved to approve purchase from Ryan Ford and authorized processing through accounts payable not to exceed the approved ceiling when invoiced.
Why it matters: The purchase replaces an existing vehicle to maintain sheriff/department mobility. Commissioners discussed financing versus paying cash and directed staff to identify the funding source (transfer from jail or other line items) before payment is finalized.
Vote and next steps: The court voted to award the purchase (motion carried). Staff will correct the bid tax discrepancy, process the purchase order, and route the invoice through accounts payable with authorization not to exceed the approved figure.
Representative quote: Staff reported, “Ryan's final bid was $45,109.51” and that tax corrections could reduce that amount; the court approved moving forward with the recommended bidder.
