Chilton County work session: equipment deal eyed, uniform vendor problems and courthouse move logistics

At the Chilton County work session, commissioners discussed several operational items: a proposed purchase of a used wheeled excavator, ongoing issues with the county's uniform vendor, and logistics for offices moving into the new courthouse.

Equipment: Staff described a proposed $225,000 purchase from Dallas County of a 2023 Caterpillar wheeled excavator with about 400 hours and unused attachments (tiltrotator, mulcher head, digging bucket). Commissioners raised concerns about operator training for the tiltrotator, remaining warranty coverage and potential maintenance costs. One commissioner recommended checking the serial number with the dealer to view the machine's service history and asking whether an extended warranty is available; staff said they would follow up and return with details before bringing a formal resolution. "I can reach out to them tomorrow," the road director said about checking the equipment history.

Uniforms: Commissioners aired repeated complaints about the county's uniform service vendor (referred to as Unifirst/Unifers in the packet). Issues cited included missed deliveries, failure to repair garments, and service inconsistencies. Staff said the current three‑year contract began in mid‑2023 and costs roughly $15,000–$16,000 a year. Commissioners asked staff to solicit quotes from alternative providers (including vendors used by neighboring counties) and to explore fabric and style changes that might increase comfort and safety (breathable fabrics, retroreflective/safety options). One commissioner noted the county could solicit quotes without a formal bid since spending is under the county’s bid threshold and asked that results be returned to the commission.

Courthouse move logistics: Commissioners discussed practical relocation needs for offices moving to the new courthouse: who pays for moving costs, availability of dumpsters, and offers of volunteer county assistance (truck, trailer, forklift). Staff confirmed dumpsters were arranged and reiterated assistance offers while noting elected offices would be responsible for costs outside the agreed volunteer scope.

Commissioners directed staff to gather equipment history and warranty options for the excavator proposal, obtain uniform‑service quotes and cost comparisons, and document moving‑assistance plans and any department requests ahead of formal agenda action.