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Plumas County approves $1.04 million order for seven CARB-compliant plow trucks, funds shifted to equipment
Summary
The board authorized a $1,035,220 purchase order for seven CARB-compliant plow trucks and a $585,000 intra-fund transfer; trucks target operational limitations caused by older non‑compliant equipment and can be driven without a commercial CDL under 26,000 GVW rules.
Plumas County supervisors approved a $1,035,220 purchase order on Jan. 13 for seven CARB-compliant plow trucks and a $585,000 budget transfer from professional services to a fixed-asset road-fund account.
Public Works Director Rob Borman told the board the purchase replaces older Class 5 diesel trucks that are restricted by California Air Resources Board (CARB) rules and mechanical issues; the new trucks can be operated by staff without a commercial driver's license because they fall under the 26,000 GVW limitation that does not require a CDL. Borman said six trucks will be assigned across the county’s six road districts and one additional unit will replace a vehicle lost to a mechanical failure last winter. Funding primarily comes from RMRA (Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account) funds previously set aside, with an estimated county share of $164,007.31 to be paid by the road department.
Supervisors and public commenters asked about driver qualifications and long-term operating costs. Board members noted the difficulty and expense of obtaining CDLs for new hires and supported the purchase as a practical way to increase plowing capacity without waiting for CDL-trained operators. The purchase order and budget transfer were approved by roll call.
The board also directed the agenda review committee to confirm such equipment purchases are reflected in the FY 2025–26 budget documents. No additional immediate action was required.
