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Town tracks $23k in interim costs as new trash truck delayed by tariff dispute
Summary
A tariff issue has delayed delivery of Pembroke's new trash truck; the vendor proposes removing the body, shipping it across the border to reduce tariff liability, and reinstalling it. Staff estimated short‑term delay costs at roughly $23,570 so far and recommended sending a demand letter seeking reimbursement if delays continue.
Public Works briefed the Select Board on a delay for the town's new trash truck caused by tariff charges. The manufacturer and dealer are reportedly arranging to remove the body, temporarily ship the chassis across the border and reinstall the body to reduce tariff exposure; the town was told this process should return the truck in a matter of weeks.
Staff provided a preliminary tally of delay costs to date — rental/lease costs, extra maintenance and parts for substitute equipment — totaling roughly $23,570 through the coming week, and noted additional monthly costs if delays extend. Board members directed staff to assemble detailed invoices and to consider a demand letter to the manufacturer or dealer seeking reimbursement for documented extra costs. The town will also track the warranty and request incremental photographs and staged progress updates under future procurements to avoid similar surprises.
