Yorkton Council unanimously approved the purchase of a new combination sewer/vacuum truck.
“In the 2020 capital budget, approval was given for purchases of a few pieces of equipment, most notably the new combination sewer/vacuum truck. This truck will replace an existing unit that has been utilized by the City for 17 years and is at the end of its useful life,” explained Johnathan Oranchuk, Fleet Operations Manager, with the City at the regular meeting of Council Monday.
“This procurement was managed with the Request for Proposal (RFP) process as defined under the City of Yorkton Purchasing of Goods and Services Policy.”
The Request for Proposal to “Purchase a Combination Sewer Flusher/ Vacuum Truck” was posted on SaskTenders and the City’s website for 14 days. Four bids were received.
“The Fleet Operations Manager (myself) held a meeting with the Roadways Manager and the Sewer and Water Systems Manager to discuss and evaluate the bids. These divisions ultimately utilize this specialized equipment, and it is an important piece for their operations,” said Oranchuk.
“After carefully going over each bid, it was determined that the bid from Fer-Marc Equipment Ltd. in the amount of $596,214 plus applicable taxes provides the best value for the City of Yorkton. It was the second lowest bid, met all specifications, and is within approved budget.
“It should be noted that the lowest bid submitted by Westvac Industrial Ltd. was rejected due to its incompatibility with the required specifications and cannot meet our needs.”
When asked what was exactly the lower valued trucks shortcomings, Oranchuk said it was a demo unit on a lot and “was not winter ready” which posed operational issues.
As for the 17-year-old unit, the City will attempt to sell it, although Oranchuk said it might not pass a safety inspection so it may have almost no value.
