The meeting’s focal point was the emergency situation surrounding the plow truck’s engine failure, which occurred on January 15th during routine operations. The incident necessitated immediate towing of the vehicle to North Central International for a detailed inspection. The public works director presented an assessment indicating that the failure was likely due to either a cracked head or a blown head gasket. Despite the truck having only 15,000 miles since its acquisition in 2014, these issues were not attributed to neglect or inadequate maintenance. The director emphasized that the maintenance schedule for such heavy-duty equipment differs from standard vehicles, with servicing based on operational use rather than mileage.

The council deliberated over two potential solutions: a complete engine replacement and a rebuild. The replacement was favored, primarily due to its comprehensive two-year warranty, in contrast to the rebuild option, which offered limited coverage depending on parts used. The public works director noted that the truck, a key asset for snow removal, was not slated for replacement until 2034, making this investment important to prolong its service life. One council member highlighted the urgency of having both plow trucks operational, stating, “We can’t have the plow down when you’re down to one,” underscoring the critical nature of the decision given the city’s snow management needs.

The financial implications of this unanticipated $54,000 expenditure were a concern among the council members. The funds would be sourced from the street department’s capital outlay fund, which would necessitate a reevaluation of other planned equipment purchases and expenditures. The public works director assured that while the current budget would cover the engine replacement, it would require adjustments in the timing of future equipment acquisitions.

Discussions also touched on maintenance practices, with the public works department opting for oil changes every two to three years based on vehicle usage. Pre-trip inspections were described as thorough, covering leak checks and fluid levels, along with ensuring all operational lights were functional, which aligns with annual Department of Transportation (DOT) inspections. These inspections are rigorous, requiring all issues to be addressed before the vehicle can be certified for use.

Council members expressed a consensus that the truck’s operational readiness was essential, particularly with the winter season approaching, and the potential logistical challenges of managing snow removal with only one plow. The decision to proceed with the engine replacement was viewed as a prudent move to ensure the city’s preparedness for adverse weather conditions.

Following a discussion on the plow truck issue, the council moved to approve the engine replacement at the quoted price of $53,848. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.