HOULTON, Maine — Houlton’s Public Works Department is getting a much-needed boost to its inventory, thanks to the actions of the town council.
During a special meeting Monday, March 30, councilors accepted a low bid of $63,030 from Yorks of Houlton for a 2020 Ford F-450 Crew Cab truck for the public works department.
A total of $20,000 was set aside in the 2020 municipal budget, which will be used as part of a 39-month loan at an interest rate of 1.9 percent.
According to Public Works Director Chris Stewart, the new vehicle replaces a 2000 GMC Sierra that was purchased as a used vehicle three years ago.
“Over the last few years, we have been getting by with single-cab one-ton trucks,” Stewart explained. “They are very uncomfortable for three adult employees to be in.”
The new truck will be used for everything having to do with construction, Stewart said, including hauling the patch trailer and crack sealing machine.
“Patching and crack sealing require more than a couple of employees to complete,” he said. “With the purchase of the new truck, we will once again be capable of completing these projects without taking multiple vehicles on the job site, along with not being jammed in a single cab.”
The new truck will also be four-wheel-drive, which gives the town the capability of utilizing the truck during the winter months, when road conditions are at their worst. The replacement truck has been on the capital plan for replacement for the past five years.
“I am looking to get at least 15 to 20 years of service from the new truck,” Stewart said. “I am very pleased with the town manager for letting me bring the public works needs forward, along with the council for fulfilling them.”
