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Cochran approves HVAC and pickup purchases, tables mower to test local bids
Summary
The council approved two HVAC replacements (Municipal Building $7,391; Peyton Williams Building $6,744) and purchased a 2026 Sierra pickup ($45,300). A requested Exmark mower bid was tabled so staff and a local dealer can compare specifications and allow worker testing.
Council actions at the Aug. 12 meeting included several procurement decisions and a vendor‑process discussion.
Public Works Director Willie Farrow recommended Comfort Pro of Cochran for a five‑ton heat pump at the municipal building ($7,391) and a three‑ton split heat pump at the Peyton Williams Building ($6,744). Council asked about warranties and minor line‑work costs; both bids were accepted unanimously.
Council also approved purchase of a 2026 Sierra 1500 pickup under the Georgia state contract for $45,300. Staff described current fleet assignments and said the state contract price and vehicle attributes supported the purchase; the motion passed unanimously.
On a separate procurement, the council considered awarding $11,644 for an Exmark 60‑inch commercial mower (Georgia Outdoor Power & Equipment). Council Member Carla Coley raised concerns that the advertised request asked for generic '60‑inch mower' bids but procurement appeared to favor a specific brand. Brian Lucas of Ace Hardware, representing Dixie Chopper, urged the council to consider local service and parts availability. Public Works Director Farrow proposed a practical test drive and specification comparison; Council Member Gary Ates moved to table the mower award so staff and the local dealer can test equivalent models and return with a recommendation. The motion to table passed unanimously.
City Manager Richard Newbern noted the city retains the right to reject bids and reissue specifications if needed.
