News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Sparta City Council approved paying for repairs of the city’s garbage truck and the purchase of a new garbage truck on Thursday.
Sparta Public Works Director Dillard Quick said the city had to replace the entire front axle on its current truck. Quick said the city needs another garbage truck, at a price of some $390,000.
“We have had money in the budget the last couple of years put back each year for the truck so we are not going to be out that much money this year because it is in the budget for next year as well, so it’s just time to pony up and get one,” Quick said.
Quick said the new truck could arrive fairly quickly as he was told it could arrive by Monday. Sparta Mayor Jerry Lowery said purchasing the truck is needed to avoid more problems.
“I think it’s a purchase that is needed,” Lowery said. “We can’t let trash start piling up.”
Lowery said it was an emergency purchase and that they could purchase the truck without it being on the agenda.
“It does not have to go to per say bid because it is under Sourcewell under state contract anyway so we are not violating any laws and it is an emergency purchase,” Lowery said. “We would normally not purchase something at that price without it being on the agenda.”
Lowery said the city will have to cover some of the cost using general funds. Lowery said even though the circumstance was unexpected the city’s budget is still in good shape moving forward. The price tag on repairs, about $30,000.
In other business, The council declared a 1994 Ford Ranger as Surplus Property and is transferring the vehicle to the Upper Cumberland Regional Airport.
The council approved the hiring recommendation for a Sanitation Truck Driver. The council approved a parade permit for the White County High School Baseball Team. Two Volunteer Firefighter applications were approved. Lowery said the two volunteers have been screened and could be exceptional help to the Fire Department.
