The Marshall County Maintenance Department is looking to purchase a bucket lift truck to reduce outside contractor fees.
County Maintenance Supervisor Doug Masterson and Gary Masterson said the employees at the maintenance department can complete needed projects that require a lift truck without the need to rent the equipment or hire another contractor. Nearly $7,000 in savings can be realized if the county owned a lift truck.
Masterson said lights need replaced in the parking lot at the sheriff’s department, but sometimes a contractor is not able to replace the lights unless several need to be changed. With the equipment on hand, the maintenance department can make the changes immediately. The truck can also be utilized for the upgrade to LED lighting at the jail. The employees would also be able to wash windows without having to hire someone to do it.
A quote for a 1980 lift truck was submitted to the commissioners. The board members asked for more research to find a quote for a newer truck.
A request for the purchase of an additional mower was also brought before the commissioners. The maintenance department is undertaking mowing responsibilities at the highway garage and at the EMA building this year. The county also mows the grass at the walking bridge. While the county has a mower for the courthouse and the jail, Masterson would like get another mower to be used at the highway garage and EMA.
The commissioners approved the purchase of a new mower from Smith Farm Store for $9,300.
