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Keith County approves purchase of two Caterpillar motor graders for $509,100 after budget discussion
Summary
After comparing four vendor options and discussing warranties, parts availability and lifecycle costs, the board approved buying two Caterpillar motor graders (Option 1) for $509,100 to address county road needs.
The Keith County Board of Commissioners voted to purchase two Caterpillar motor graders after a discussion about cost, maintenance and operational needs.
Highway superintendent presented four purchase options: two Caterpillars, two John Deeres, or two mixed configurations. He provided a line-by-line cost and total-cost-of-ownership comparison, including cash-on-delivery prices, service and filter estimates, and an analysis of recycled front-lift groups to reduce replacement expenses. Commissioners weighed the features of John Deere’s telematics versus Caterpillar pricing and supply concerns stemming from previous delivery delays.
Citing tight budget constraints and the need to be frugal this fiscal year, the board adopted the superintendent’s recommendation to purchase two Caterpillar graders (Option 1) for a total contract price recorded in the meeting as $509,100. The motion passed on a roll-call vote with all commissioners voting yes. Commissioners noted extended warranties and parts availability were factored into the recommendation.
What’s next: County staff will complete purchasing paperwork and arrange delivery; the highway superintendent will manage warranty and maintenance planning.
