BACKGROUND

The approved FY16 Capital Budget includes $1,340,000 for the replacement of six single-axle dump trucks and one dual-axle dump truck for the Maintenance Division of the Public Works Department.

The State of Illinois, through their Central Management Services Department, offers a joint purchasing program to municipalities. The current State of Illinois contract for heavy duty trucks is through TRANS CHICAGO Truck Group of Elmhurst, Illinois. 

Staff is recommending the replacement of two standard single-axle dump trucks with two hook lift hydraulic lifting systems, each with dump body, v-box spreader, and anti-icing tanks. Hook loaders have a similar cab and chassis, but have the ability to interchange truck bodies. This system has the potential to reduce manpower needs during leaf hauling and reduce future capital expenses in other Units of Public Works.  For example, Public Works may be able to purchase a chipper box body to be used outside of plowing season, instead of needing a dedicated truck. Staff is excited about this potential increase in fleet efficiency.

The two dump trucks being replaced will be 14 years old by the time the proposed trucks arrive. The trucks are primarily used for Snow and Ice Control, but are also used during construction for asphalt and concrete work and for hauling leaves and aggregate. 

Staff is also recommending the purchase of two 1,065 gallon anti-icing units to be used for the hook loader and two additional dump bodies.  Currently, Staff uses 300-gallon tanks for our anti-icing needs and makes multiple trips to refill on the Supermix. The two additional dump bodies will allow Staff to reduce the hauling manpower per sweeper by 50%.

The Fleet Unit of Public Works has inspected the dump trucks and recommends replacement. If the purchase is approved, the existing dump trucks will be recommended for surplus when the new replacements arrive.

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that the Village Board award the bid to TRANSCHICAGO Truck Group of Elmhurst, Illinois, for the purchase of two Single-Axle Hook Lift Trucks with anti-icing accessories in an amount not-to-exceed $454,218 for the Maintenance Division of Public Works and authorize the execution of the necessary contracts.