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Select Board weighs leasing vs. buying trucks and CDL constraints for highway crew
Summary
Officials asked the highway supervisor to analyze truck sizes, costs, and whether leasing on a 5–6 year cycle would be more cost-effective; CDL requirements were noted as limiting hiring for larger trucks.
The Select Board discussed July 29 whether the town's Highway Department should continue purchasing large trucks, lease vehicles, or outsource hauling needs. Don Carlisle urged the board to examine leasing on a five‑to‑six‑year cycle to avoid increasing repair costs and recommended staff seek pricing for a 12‑wheeler versus a 6‑wheeler.
Town staff noted that operating larger trucks can require a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), which narrows the available hiring pool. "For municipalities, not needing a CDL increases the employment pool," the record states. Road agent M. Tarr agreed to sit with the Selectmen, review truck uses and options, and then meet with the Highway Equipment Committee to present pricing and recommendations.
