Get AI Briefings, Transcripts & Alerts on Local & National Government Meetings — Forever.
Council to rent replacement while deciding on new 60‑foot bucket truck purchase
Summary
City staff told council the municipality’s 60‑foot bucket truck can no longer receive manufacturer dielectric certification required for live‑wire work. Council agreed to rent a truck short term and to consider purchase during upcoming appropriations; a final decision was tabled pending budget and clarification on who will maintain new 70‑foot poles.
City staff told the Oglesby City Council that the municipality’s 60‑foot bucket truck can no longer be certified by the manufacturer for dielectric testing — a certification OSHA requires for live‑line work — because the manufacturer no longer performs those tests on trucks of that age.
The city’s highest‑reaching truck now must be used only on de‑energized lines for work that would otherwise require workers to take outages. That limitation prompted concern from multiple commissioners who said the restriction could increase outage time for residents.
Public‑works staff and Commissioner Baldridge briefed the council on procurement options: (1) rent while seeking appropriations for a new truck, (2) buy a newer used model next fiscal year, or (3) pursue a 2025 model with longer reach. A vendor offered a rent‑to‑own option that would refund the first month’s payments if the truck is purchased within the first 10 days after month one and provide a limited inspection warranty.
Council members asked whether the city will be responsible for maintenance on two upcoming 70‑foot poles and the viper switches Ameren will control, noting that if the city is responsible, it might need a taller truck. The mayor said staff should confirm whether Ameren or the city will maintain those devices.
Given budget timing, the council voted to table a final purchase decision and authorized renting a truck in the interim to avoid service disruptions.
What happens next: Staff will confirm maintenance responsibilities for the new poles and identify the fiscal impact for the appropriations cycle. Meanwhile the city will rent a bucket truck to cover any immediate high‑reach needs.
