At their October 14 meeting, Director of Public Works Chris Mitchell told the Eureka City Council that funds have been budgeted for 2026 to purchase a new mini-excavator. Mitchell’s hope is to find an excavator whose size will be compatible for use by all departments—street, utilities, and even help out with some code demolitions. After researching several size models, Mitchell told the council that he would like to go forward with a plan to lease a Bobcat E50 Compact Excavator for one month in order to determine if the unit is the right size to fit the needs of the city. Mitchell said that several projects have been lined up to do during the lease period to test the machine’s compatibility and usefulness. “We felt it would be beneficial to be able to use it for several projects versus a one-day demo,” he said. Mitchell presented a quote from Bobcat White Star for a 30day rental of the E50 for $4,265. Councilman Jeff Marks inquired if the Bobcat company imposed an hour limit during the 30-day rental period. Mitchell did not have that information but said he would verify with Bobcat before proceeding. The council voted to approve the plan to lease the Bobcat E50 compact excavator for one month, provided no hour restriction creates a challenge.
Mitchell also spoke to the council regarding the need for a new snowplow attachment for use by the city. Mitchell explained that the city currently has two dump trucks that have plows on them. The oldest truck, a 1980 model, has multiple mechanical issues. Mitchell told the council that the truck’s plow attachment is not transferable to their newer trucks due to a difference in the design of the vehicle’s frame. Mitchell presented a quote for the purchase of a 10-foot snow plow attachment through Midwest Truck Equipment of Wichita. The Western 10-foot Pro Plus HD plow, which features two wing attachments, allowing the blade to extend to 12 feet wide, is reversible, meaning that plowed snow can be directed either left or right, as needed. LED plow lights make it easier for the driver to see ahead. Mitchell told the council that he had traveled to the City of Kechi to learn about their Western plow, which has been in use for several years and had received their endorsement. Another important feature of the plow, Mitchell said, is that it is removable so the truck can potentially be used for projects without it, if needed. The quoted price of the Western 10-foot plow, including complete installation and mounting to the city’s Freightliner truck, is $16,325. After discussion, the council approved a motion to proceed with the purchase. The new snowplow attachment is expected to be operational in four to five weeks.
