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Kane County staff report heavy winter salt use and urge deposits to secure 2027 trucks ahead of EPA changes
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Summary
KDOT reported 38 snow operations this season with about 6,800 tons of salt used so far; staff said supplier Targill is out until April but county reserves (5,000–6,000 tons) should bridge the shortfall. Committee also approved deposits to secure 2027 truck chassis because manufacturers are adjusting to EPA rules that will increase upfront costs.
Kane County Division of Transportation staff told the Transportation Committee on Feb. 17 that snow operations have been unusually heavy this season and that salt usage has roughly doubled compared with the same point last winter.
Maintenance Superintendent Michael Wei reported the county has been out for 38 snow events so far, using an estimated 6,800 tons of salt compared with roughly 3,700 tons at this time last year. Wei said supplier Targill has notified the county it is out of salt until about April, but the division has approximately 5,000–6,000 tons in reserve at the CV Road pit to manage operations until new shipments arrive.
Wei explained that most townships (all but one) participate in the county salt contract and face the same shortfall; KDOT has been coordinating with township officials and loaned a small amount (about 25 tons) to one township where needed. He said schools are also managing shortages by mixing salt and sand to stretch supplies.
On fleet replacement, staff described supply‑chain pressures facing truck manufacturers and noted forthcoming EPA equipment regulations scheduled for 2028 that are expected to add roughly $20,000 to a truck’s price. To lock build spots for three 2027 chassis, staff recommended refundable deposits of $5,000 per unit (a $15,000 total deposit), which the committee approved. Staff said manufacturers are moving forward with the new emission systems regardless of federal action, increasing upfront costs but potentially lowering maintenance downtime over time.
The committee approved that deposit resolution and later approved individual vehicle and trailer purchases and other procurement items discussed during the meeting.
