By Louis Zylka
The 830 Times
City council members have approved the purchase of three pieces of heavy equipment for the city’s wastewater collection division.
Three resolutions pertaining to the purchases were discussed during the regular council meeting on Dec. 10, directing and authorizing the city manager to purchase a mini excavator and two Bobcat machines. City staff said the additional equipment will help the city’s wastewater crews complete tasks more efficiently.
As mentioned in a memo provided to the council by Purchasing Agent Luis Menchaca, the city’s wastewater division is tasked with keeping all components of Del Rio’s wastewater system functioning properly and ensuring the protection of public health and the environment.
The first resolution was to authorize and direct the city manager to approve a purchase in the amount of $136,250 for one John Deere Mini Excavator with a bucket, auger and trailer. The equipment will help the wastewater crew move dirt in tight spaces that are difficult to reach.
The memo in the agenda packet mentioned the excavator will take up less space and the city from having to close entire an entire block of a street where work is being done.
Councilman J.P. Sanchez made the motion to approve the resolution, and Councilwoman Ernestina “Tina” Martinez gave the second.
The second resolution was to authorize and direct the city manager to approve the purchase in the amount of $107,499.88 for one Bobcat equipment machinery with attachments, including a plainer, bucket and broom. The equipment will allow staff to maneuver in small areas and cut through both gravel and concrete.
Sanchez made the motion to approve the resolution, and Mayor Pro-tem Jim DeReus gave the second.
The third and final resolution was to authorize and direct the city manager to approve the purchase in the amount of $86,499.88 for one Case Bobcat machine with a bucket attachment and trailer.
As mentioned in the memo, the new unit will be beneficial by creating less damage to the gravel and sand in the construction area. This Bobcat unit will replace the wastewater division’s older unit.
Sanchez made the motion to approve the resolution, and Councilman Randy Quiñones gave the second.
Councilwoman Carmen Gutierrez had a question about the information provided in the agenda packet regarding the third resolution.
“The amount is going to be $86,499.88, and this amount is budgeted in the Enterprise Fund, which is fine. (The agenda) says the difference of $6,499.98 will be funded from the savings in the backhoe previously purchased. What will the balance be then in that fund?” Gutierrez asked.
Assistant Finance Director Roxy Soto said the additional cost of the $6,499.98 will be covered by savings used in a backhoe authorized from a previous purchase. Councilman Jesus Lopez Jr. then asked if the new pieces of equipment are replacements.
Adrian Quiroz, wastewater superintendent, said the first two items are new to the wastewater division, but the Bobcat unit from the third resolution is a replacement for a 1985 unit.
The council unanimously approved all three resolutions.
