CC 01-25-1993 & 1-25-1993 WS - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

. . . MINUTES OF THE ARDEN HILLS COUNCIL WORKSESSION, 1-25-93 Page 5 COUNCIL COMMENTS (Cont'd) Councilmember Hicks emphasized that when the opportunity to purchase the backhoe arose, it was a very good deal. Councilmember Malone stated that his reason for raising this issue is the fact that the City now has a John Deere tractor, a Massey Ferguson tractor, and a backhoe, and he is concerned that it appears the City's equipment inventory is "mushrooming". Winkel commented that the only reason for possibly getting rid of the Massey Ferguson would be to replace it with a bobcat which would be a multi-functional piece of equipment. Hicks said that in addition to the excellent opportunity to purchase a backhoe, he recalled that at the time the decision was made to purchase the backhoe, the City was faced with a major repair cost for the Massey Ferguson tractor, so the Massey was to be sold when the backhoe was purchased. Winkel did not recall any repair concern surrounding the Massey at the time of purchasing the backhoe, although he was aware the Massey had some history of past repair costs and perhaps it had not been serviced as well as it should have been. Accountant Post recalled that the backhoe was not anticipated to be purchased during the year, and if the backhoe had not come into play, the Massey could have been sold to purchase a bobcat. Winkel said his understanding was that money had originally been set aside in the budget for the purchase of a bobcat without having to sell the Massey Ferguson tractor. Malone stated that if the original plan would have taken place, the City would have ended up with two tractors and a bobcat, however, the situation now is that budget money has been used and the City still has two tractors, a backhoe. and no bobcat. Winkel stated that certainly the Massey Ferguson could be sold or traded in if a bobcat is purchased, and he would look into that possibility. Councilmember Aplikowski questioned if the City directs letters of appreciation to Charitable Gambling organizations, such as the Light Brigade for contributions made within the City. Mayor Sather advised that Council, as a group, normally acknowledges the Light Brigade as one organization which contributes all of their donations within the City. Council recessed for 15 minutes and reconvened at 6:10 p.m.