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Selectboard considers free 2013 JCB loader but weighs transport, bucket and insurance costs
Summary
Through a government-surplus program the town was offered a 2013 JCB machine at no purchase price; the board asked staff to verify whether the machine includes a bucket and to estimate transport and insurance costs before deciding.
The Selectboard discussed a preliminary award from a federal/state government surplus program for a 2013 JCB heavy machine reportedly located in Pennsylvania.
Staff said paperwork lists an original paperwork value of about $280,000 and a wholesale-as-is estimate of roughly $56,000. The unit reportedly runs and drives but may be missing a bucket. Transport quotes to bring the machine to Effingham were discussed (one preliminary quote was $4,400–$4,900). The board reviewed operational considerations including CDL-required operator qualifications, insurance and maintenance cost increases, storage/shelter needs, and the one-year provisional ownership period after which the machine becomes fully town property.
Members generally agreed the machine has useful applications at the transfer station and for emergency response (moving trees, brush piles), but asked staff to confirm whether the machine includes a bucket and to contact multiple transporters, the insurance carrier and potential mechanics for maintenance cost estimates before making a final decision.
Why it matters: Accepting surplus heavy equipment can provide a low-cost asset but creates recurring costs (maintenance, insurance, storage) and immediate transport expenses the town must fund. The board directed staff to gather the missing information and requested a short deadline to respond to the surplus program’s timing requirements.
