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Commissioners weigh repair vs. replacement and cost-sharing for key public works equipment
Summary
After heavy repairs and warranty concerns on aging equipment, Daniels County commissioners directed staff to obtain quotes for new and used skid-steer loaders, evaluate warranties and lease options, and explore cost-sharing with the solid waste district (possible 60/40 split). Quotes ranged roughly $74,200–$88,700 for new models; staff will return with pricing and warranty details.
Commissioners reviewed a series of equipment reports and vendor quotes during the Feb. 18 meeting as public‑works staff and solid‑waste representatives explored options to keep operations running while limiting capital expense.
Staff reported a county mower/tractor with roughly 9,400 hours that likely needs extensive seal and gasket work and a new wiring harness; an initial repair estimate was about $18,000, with the possibility of higher costs once work is complete. Separately, vendor quotes for skid‑steer loaders ranged from the low $70,000s to nearly $89,000 for new models; leasing and used‑equipment options were also discussed as a way to spread cost and secure warranty coverage.
Commissioners and staff discussed splitting the cost with the solid‑waste district on a 60/40 or 50/50 basis depending on projected usage; they flagged warranty coverage as a key value point because repairs on older machines have driven large bills in prior years. Staff were directed to gather detailed quotes, warranty and trade-in information, and to bring back a recommended procurement approach that considers budget timing and multi‑year replacement planning.
Why it matters: Heavy equipment keeps county roads, solid‑waste operations and winter response functioning. Poorly timed replacements or insufficient warranty coverage can cause service interruptions and large unplanned expenditures.
Next steps: Public works staff will compile vendor quotes (new, used and lease options), estimate multi‑year replacement costs and recommend a financing approach and cost‑share arrangement to present at a future meeting.
