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Newton council backs in-house tree-trimming crew, authorizes financing for truck after high bid
Summary
After receiving one bid that exceeded its budget, the council approved creating two tree-trimming positions and a $215,000 financing intent to buy a tree truck, with staff saying in-house crews will reduce recurring contracting costs and the truck could be delivered by July 2023.
Newton City Council on Dec. 6 approved creating two permanent tree-trimming positions and authorized a budget ordinance amendment and intent to reimburse from financing for purchase of an additional tree truck.
Public Works and Utilities Director Dusty Wentz told the council that staff solicited bids and received a single bid from Asplundh Tree Expert for $255,952.40. The City had budgeted $150,000 for contracted tree trimming in fiscal year 2022-23; Wentz recommended repurposing that budget toward personnel costs and financing the truck instead of awarding the contract. Wentz said the truck was quoted at $201,803 and that the truck could be delivered by July 2023 if the City proceeds with purchase.
Staff analysis presented to council showed that adding an in-house crew plus debt service on the truck would increase annual costs approximately $40,500 over the current budget but would save roughly $63,462.40 compared with the bid received. On motions by Council Member Jody Dixon, seconded by Council Member Jerry Hodge and Council Member Ed Sain respectively, the council unanimously approved the budget ordinance amendment and the creation of two tree-trimming positions.
Council documents and the related budget ordinance are on file with the City Clerk.
