The Willmar Public Works Department of Minnesota recently received preliminary approval to buy a new aerial bucket truck under a recent city council spending policy that requires council approval of equipment purchases of more than $10,000.

According to Scott Ledeboer, director of Public Works, the current truck is more than 17 years old and has more than 4,000 hours on it (including idle time).

“The manufacturer of the boom is no longer in business, replacement parts are difficult to get, there’s a significant metal and fiber glass fatigue in the boom unit — that makes it a safety concern,” he explained to the council at the recent meeting.

The original budget for the new truck was $192,000, which should cover the unit’s approximate cost of $179,000, along with about $4,000 in fees associated with tax and licensing.

The swing arm capability height would be 5 feet higher, but the reach would be slightly less than the current unit.

The new unit is a two-man single basket and will be used for tree trimming, getting on top of buildings, hanging banners, as well as other aerial-related tasks.