6.2 Purchase Grader CITY OF SALINA
REQUEST FOR COMMISSION ACTION
DATE TIME
08/24/98 4:00 P.M.
AGENDA SECTION ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT: APPROVED FOR
NO. 6 AGENDA:
Utilities
NO. 2
BY: Don Hoff BY: ~.~/k~
ITEM
Authorization to waive the City's regular competitive bidding process to purchase a used motor grader for the Salina
Municipal Solid Waste Landfill Facility.
BACKGROUND
The 1974 model motor grader utilized at the landfill is in poor mechanical condition. Replacement parts for this unit
are difficult to obtain and are very expensive. The 1998 Vehicle and Equipment Schedule identified replacement of
this motor grader with a used unit. We can not justify expending $150,000 for the purchase of a new unit to
accomplish our motor grader needs at the landfill.
It is very difficult to write a set of bid specifications for a used piece of heavy construction equipment. The purchase
of a used motor grader should not be based solely on model, year of manufacture, engine hours, etc. A visual
inspection for general mechanical condition and performance evaluation is required to effectively compare available
units. A motor grader previously used by a contractor for ripping rock or other similar heavy service can not be
judged equal to a unit used for light finish blading work even though the model, year and hour meter readings are
similar. Equipment dealers are also reluctant to submit proposals that must remain valid for the 4-6 week duration
period involved in the normal bidding process.
RECOMMENDATION
Based on our preliminary research, we believe a good serviceable motor grader can be obtained from area heavy
equipment dealers for under $80,000. We are, therefore, requesting the City Commission authorize staffto
investigate the availability of used motor graders; conduct evaluations regarding their mechanical and electrical
conditions; compare prices (with and without trade); etc. A staff report would then be presented to the City
Commission within three (3) weeks for action regarding our recommendation for the approval of the purchase of the
selected used motor grader.
F-59 (Rev. 1/98