By By JOHN EBY / Dowagiac Daily News
A 2007 Dodge Ram 4×4 truck with snow plow Dowagiac City Council purchased Monday night for the Grounds Department replaces a 2001 Dodge Dakota.
The council approved the proposed purchase for $21,333, including the snow plow package, from Bill Snethkamps Lansing Dodge Inc. through the State of Michigan purchasing program.
The truck costs $17,484, including a $240 delivery charge.
The snow plow package costs $3,849 from NBC Truck Equipment Co. in Roseville.
The 2001 Dodge Dakota 4×4 plow truck will be sold as surplus property by competitive bid or auction.
It was involved in an accident in 2003 and has had problems since the repairs were made, according to city Department of Public Services Director Donald N. Hallowell.
The administration budgeted $20,951 for this vehicle replacement in the FY 2006-07 budget.
In other Oct. 23 business, the council approved Greater Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce's request to host the Old-Fashioned Christmas Celebration beginning the weekend before Thanksgiving.
Open House Weekend is Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 18 and 19, plus this year features a new Special Preview Night of holiday merchandise on Friday, Nov. 17, from 5 to 7 p.m.
The council canceled its Dec. 25 meeting because it falls on Christmas Day.
Finance Director David Pilot was authorized to pay out $1,611.653.75, including $1,494,592.74 for bills and $117,061.01 for payroll.
Mayor Donald Lyons, City Manager William Nelson and First Ward Councilwoman Donna O'Konski were absent.