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Selectmen approve bid waivers for Musco lighting, school tractor and electric cargo van
Summary
The Board of Selectmen voted to approve several Board of Education bid waivers, including a 10-year Musco lighting/service package, a state-bid tractor purchase and authority to buy a used electric cargo van up to $35,000; all motions passed on voice votes.
The Board of Selectmen approved a series of Board of Education bid waivers and equipment purchases during its meeting, including a Musco lighting control and service package, the purchase of a new tractor for school use, and authority to purchase a used electric cargo van up to $35,000.
Steve, the Board of Education facilities lead, told the board the Musco item is a package deal that pairs hardware and a 10-year service plan and that Musco is effectively the sole provider for the requested control system. The chair moved to authorize the Musco purchase for $28,195; the board voted 'aye' and the chair announced the result was unanimous.
On school equipment, Steve explained the tractor purchase responds to maintenance and snow‑removal needs. He said the ordered tractor includes a seasonal cab with air conditioning and heat, and that the town plans to equip it with a snow blade and a salt spreader. The chair moved to approve a state‑bid tractor purchase from Contractor Equipment for $55,258.13; the motion passed unanimously.
Steve also described a time‑sensitive opportunity to buy a used electric cargo van. He said a seller had agreed to hold a vehicle until the July meeting but then sold it to another buyer; to enable quick action on comparable opportunities, Steve asked for authority to spend up to $35,000 on a used electric van and committed to including two compatible price quotes with any PO request. The board approved the bid‑waiver motion to allow the facilities director to purchase a used electric cargo van up to $35,000, coordinating with the director of finance.
Board discussion focused on value and timing rather than contesting the purchases. One member asked whether the $28,195 Musco cost included hardware and service; Steve confirmed it did. Another asked about tractor attachments and operator protection; Steve said the tractor will include the cab and planned snow‑clearance equipment. The motions were moved, seconded and carried on voice votes.
The board did not identify any legal authorities beyond state bid procurement rules referenced in staff presentations. No public speakers were present for comment on these items.
