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Glacier County approves $235,000 loader and $52,500 water truck for road department
Summary
County commissioners approved purchases for a Caterpillar loader ($235,000, with an expected $35,000 trade-in) and a $52,500 water truck for the Glacier County Road Department, citing parts shortages and aging fleet.
Glacier County commissioners approved two purchases for the county road department during their Feb. 3 meeting: a Caterpillar loader for $235,000 and a used water truck for $52,500. Road Department staff said the existing loader is aging and parts are no longer available, and that the department has budgeted funds for machinery replacement.
A road department presenter explained the bids and trade-in estimates, saying, "They're gonna give us $35,000 for our loader," and that the larger new machine would have a roughly 4.2-yard bucket suitable for county work. Staff reported approximately $476,000 in the machinery budget available to pay for replacements.
Commissioners reviewed alternative bids (including smaller Case and John Deere machines) and noted constraints such as parts availability for older Volvos. After public comment was called and none were offered, a commissioner moved to approve the loader purchase; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. Commissioners later approved the recommended water-truck purchase, with staff noting the water-truck tank capacity and that available options out of state were more expensive.
Next steps: Public works staff will arrange trade-in/disposal of replaced equipment and proceed with procurement and delivery.
