Chase County approves skid‑steer attachments — commissioners agree to buy mower and grapple for brush removal

The Chase County Commission voted Aug. 29 to authorize moving forward with a commercial brush mower ("mega mower" brush cutter) and an industrial quick‑attach grapple for the county skid‑steer to support brush clearing and winter maintenance.

Road and bridge staff described a sequence of failed or worn attachments: a demo brush mower with repeated hydraulic failures, an inadequate homemade grapple and a broken gravel bucket. Staff reviewed multiple vendor quotes and tradeoffs — including a U.S.‑made Skid Pro combo (grapple and mower) quoted at about $12,000 for both, and a Foley government discount that lowered an alternative new unit to roughly $16,225. Staff said warranties and parts availability factored into their recommendation.

Commissioners debated transport options for the attachments and skid‑steer, noting the county’s existing skid‑steer is a 2020 model and that they lack a dedicated gooseneck trailer with dual axles sized for regular heavy hauling. Commissioners approved the vendor selection (quick‑attach mower and industrial grapple) and instructed staff to proceed; the motion passed with the board noting transport and trailer questions remain to be resolved.

Chair Tony Hazleton and road staff emphasized co‑ordination between the road crew and noxious weeds crew to share the skid‑steer and attachments during peak seasons, and discussed longer‑term replacement planning for the skid‑steer itself. Staff said they will pursue transport/trailer options (including used equipment listings such as Purple Wave and local dealers) and consider lease/purchase timing in next year’s budget cycle.

Ending: The commission approved the immediate attachments purchase and asked staff to return with transport solutions and a plan for any future skid‑steer replacements.