Select Board approves winter salt and sand purchases amid rising prices

The Plymouth Select Board authorized two purchase packages to secure winter materials after staff reported market-driven price increases.

Town staff told the board a purchase order to buy 950 tons of road salt from Morton Salt for $79,657.50 was needed because the 2025–26 budget allocated $55,000 for salt and inflation has driven market prices above budgeted levels. "This is much more than we had originally budgeted due to inflation and the cost of salt," staff said during the presentation. The board approved the purchase; staff said $24,658 additional funding would be taken from road construction reserves to cover the difference.

The board also approved a primary sand contract with Ambrose Brothers Inc. for 2,000 cubic yards (quoted at $40,000 plus $9,000 delivery) and a backup agreement with Pike Industries for up to 1,000 tons at $18,600 should the primary pit be exhausted. Staff explained unit differences (tons vs. cubic yards) and provided a conversion estimate used to compare bids. The purchases were authorized from the contract services winter account and the road maintenance sand and gravel account.

Why it matters: Officials said securing material now protects the town against mid‑winter shortages and price spikes, and ensures public-safety operations (plowing, sanding, and traction control) can proceed. Board members urged staff to review salt‑use best practices and consider ways to reduce environmental impacts while maintaining safety.

Board action and next steps: Motions to approve both the Morton Salt order and the Ambrose/Pike sand contracts were made, seconded and approved. Staff will finalize purchase orders and proceed with delivery arrangements.