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Consideration of request by Fleet and Parks & Forestry Superintendents for approval of a Level Three fund transfer for the purchase of an aerial bucket truck
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Submitted by:
Fleet Superintendent, Michael Hahn and Parks & Forestry Superintendent, Alex Krutsch
Department:
Public Works
A. Issue
The City's Forestry Team utilizes aerial bucket trucks to accomplish many tree care and maintenance tasks including tree pruning and removals. One of the teams most versatile bucket trucks has experienced several significant time loss repairs and we are requesting approval to order a replacement truck at this time.
B. Background/Options
In order to meet the City's lofty goal of pruning 2,500 trees each year the City's Forestry Team needs quality and reliable equipment. The team currently utilizes multiple bucket trucks of various sizes to accomplish the varied needs of the City's diverse urban forest. The mid-sized bucket truck, that provides immense value to meet the team's needs is a 2000 model year and it has experienced several significant mechanical failures this season which have led to significant downtime. The team is currently renting a truck given the significance of the current mechanical issue, however, the cost to rent quickly escalates well beyond the cost of ownership so we are recommending authorization of a purchase at this time.
The Forestry Team has evaluated various bucket options and determined that a Versalift VST-5500, shown here, will best meet the needs of team. The estimated purchase price of the bucket truck, including the chassis and all necessary upfitting is $350,000. The build time for equipment is significant so we intend to utilize the current unit (once repairs are completed) and/or rent a unit until a new truck can be built and delivered.
C. Strategic Plan (Area of Focus)
Priority Area Three: Infrastructure
D. Fiscal Impact
Funds from the Capital Budget would be utilized to purchase this piece of equ...
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