Council approves $93,936 electric greens mower for Oso Creek Golf Course

The Mission Viejo City Council unanimously approved a purchase order for a John Deere electric greens triplex mower from Stotz Equipment not to exceed $93,936.05 to maintain Oso Creek Golf Course. Staff said the electric mower is quieter, reduces emissions and eliminates hydraulic-fluid risks associated with older equipment.

Staff presentation noted the mower will replace a 2019 machine used daily for greens maintenance and that maintaining two operational mowers is important for reliability and course quality. The staff report said the mower was chosen after demonstrations and three vendor quotes, and that delivery is anticipated in two to three weeks.

Council members who saw a demo praised the mower’s safety and quiet operation. Council Member Reesch said, "They're quiet, they're small, they're unobtrusive," and described automated safety features that stop the mower if a golfer is nearby. A Mission Viejo resident and District 2 council candidate, Peter Molinari, told the council the electric mower would reduce early‑morning disruptions for nearby neighborhoods and lower air pollution for staff and residents.

The motion to award the contract was moved and seconded and passed unanimously. Staff said the existing mower will be reassigned for light-duty work and that replacing the unit aligns with the Oso Creek operating budget for equipment replacement.