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Selectmen weigh replacing backhoe after $17,000 brake repair estimate
Summary
The Road Agent reported backhoe brake failure with an estimated $17,000 repair on an 11‑year‑old machine; the Road Agent and Selectman Chandler said John Deere will discuss a possible five‑year lease and trade‑in instead of repairing.
Selectman Gene Chandler told the Selectmen on Feb. 25 that the Road Agent reported failing brakes on the department's backhoe, with an estimated repair cost of $17,000 for an 11‑year‑old vehicle. Chandler said the Road Agent has been in touch with a John Deere representative to discuss a potential five‑year lease on a newer machine with a trade‑in of the old backhoe.
Chandler said the repair may not be worth the cost on an older vehicle and that the town will meet with the John Deere representative to assess leasing options and trade‑in value. No formal procurement decision was made at the meeting; the discussion concluded with agreement to pursue further conversations with the vendor and evaluate lease versus repair options.
Next steps: Road Department and town staff to meet with the John Deere representative and report back to the board with proposals and cost comparisons.
