Mesquite council approves purchase of two autonomous mowers after debate over costs and scope

The Mesquite City Council approved a staff recommendation on Feb. 2 to award bid 2026‑47 for two Grama autonomous mowers to Lone Star Municipal Equipment LLC through Sourcewell contract 32525‑GCL for an amount not to exceed $187,800.

City Manager Cliff Kaheeli said the machines will help maintain drainage channels and secured utility properties without placing staff in risky positions inside channels. "These are new technology... they're joystick controlled, so you don't have to have a person down in a creek or a channel," Kaheeli said during pre‑meeting and later in the consent discussion.

Councilmembers raised concerns about recurring satellite licensing fees and long‑term replacement costs. Councilmember Elizabeth Rodriguez Ross asked whether the machines would simply shift staff time rather than save it: "Won't he just be busy remote controlling the lawnmower?" she asked, and said she had reservations about investing about $190,000 in untested tech. Kaheeli and other councilmembers replied that the equipment has been demonstrated in other cities, could be used in multiple locations and would expand drainage crews' capabilities rather than eliminate positions.

Councilman Kenny Green moved to approve the award and Councilman Jeff Casper seconded. The motion passed unanimously (6–0). Staff said funding for the purchase will come from DUD operating funds and water distribution maintenance accounts.

What passed: an award to Lone Star Municipal Equipment LLC for up to $187,800; staff expects the machines to be assigned to the drainage utility district and water utilities for pump stations and other constrained maintenance areas.

Next steps: procurement and delivery under the Sourcewell contract, staff testing in city conditions and integration into maintenance schedules.