The Public Works Streets Division is in need of a new front end wheel loader to replace the existing unit. The existing wheel loader is approximately 12 years old and is incurring above normal repair costs and has exceeded its cost effective life cycle. The frequency of repairs not only affect the division monetarily, but the unit being down also decreases the division’s overall efficiency and productivity.
The purpose of the wheel loader is to perform multiple tasks around the City in large earth removal and debris cleanup work. It is also used on city streets construction projects that arise that require heavy equipment use. The wheel loader will come with two attachments, one being a bucket attachment for scooping up to 2.5 cubic yards of material and the other attachment will be a clam rake which is used to clear debris such as trees, bushes and large objects, it is an essential attachment for the fast cleanup work of debris such as what is produced in the event of a hurricane or disaster.
Staff requests that City Council approve the purchase of a new John Deere 444k wheel loader with attachments from Nortrax in the amount of $126,123.20 by utilizing the Cooperative Purchasing Program and the Florida Sheriffs Association Contract Number FSA17-VEH15.0 specification #30. After purchase and receipt of the new wheel loader unit, Public Works plans to trade in the current unit which has a trade in value of $16,000.00 and depositing the proceeds from the sale into the Fleet Services Fund.