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Commissioners Table Sealed Bids for Brush Truck Pending Specs and Price Comparisons
Summary
After debate over whether to buy a new light-frame F-350 or heavier used trucks, the board voted to table sealed bids for a brush truck until staff returns with weight/capacity specs and a comparison of new versus used prices.
Michael Smith outlined an estimate for a basic new 2026 Ford F-350 (roughly $70,000) and compared that to used brush-truck listings that he said could run $89,000'$115,000. A commissioner expressed concern about putting a new light-frame pickup on the fire line and urged staff to consider heavier F-450 or F-550 platforms or to capture mileage data on used vehicles.
After discussion about warranties, break-in needs and the relative durability of older, heavier frames, the board voted to table the sealed-bid process for the brush truck while staff obtains additional specifications and price comparisons. The chair moved to table the sealed bids until staff can provide those specs and commissioners approved the motion.
Commissioners asked staff to return with lists of current vehicles, mileage, and prioritized needs so the board can consider trade-offs between lower initial cost and longer-term durability.
