Thursday, March 28, 2024

City approves purchase for street department

Posted

The city of Gatesville will soon have a new piece of equipment to help with road improvements after the Gatesville City Council approved the purchase of a sheepsfoot roller.

"This piece of equipment is something we've wanted for a very long time," Interim City Manager Bill Parry said. "It is specifically designed to compact clay soil, and we think it's a very durable piece of equipment.

The cost of the machine is not to exceed $131,750, and the item, a Case SV 207E, has a 66-inch drum, which is wider than the other models considered. The item will be purchased from ASCO Equipment in Belton.

Also considered was a Caterpillar model for $141,125, but it is not expected to be available until the 2024 fiscal year. A memo to the Council also noted there are "struggles with the blade on the front of the roller."

A smaller Volvo model was a cheaper option at $99,376, however, the drum is 12 inches smaller and 6,000 pounds lighter, and a blade will not be available until sometime next year.

Parry said the city staff has determined the best value is the Case model. The Council unanimously approved the purchase.