Board discusses $95,000 tractor purchase, firewood harvesting rules and a planned touch-a-truck event

Board members spent substantial time on parks operations and equipment on July 1. The chair presented a Sourcewell government-price quote for a Massey Ferguson tractor with a front loader, enclosed cab and 15-foot turf mower priced at approximately $95,000 and described an apparent $28,000 discount from list. Members discussed used trade-in values ($25,000–$30,000), possible shared use with the highway department, and lease-to-own financing options; staff will return with financing proposals at the next meeting.

Participants discussed attachments and operational needs: a quick-disconnect front plate for multiple implements, a grapple rake, a PTO-driven leaf blower and the potential for a jib boom to lift heavier implements. Members emphasized compatibility with existing hydraulics and the need to evaluate best-value procurement rules before committing to purchase.

The board also discussed a proposed town firewood-harvesting program. Members agreed to avoid heavy machinery on trails (materials should be moved by wheelbarrow or be within parking distance), identified a low-use wood-line area where pickups could access fallen wood, and tentatively scheduled harvesting for November–March to reduce safety risks.

A representative of the Unionville Fire Company proposed a joint touch-a-truck event at Tymore Park in October (possible dates Oct. 24–25 or Oct. 31 with a Halloween theme). The board expressed general support for the concept and asked staff to coordinate logistics with parks, recreation and highway departments.

Board members asked that financing options, attachments and a procurement-compliance review be returned for decision at a future meeting.