Today it’s summer weather, but the Homewood Department of Public Works is thinking ahead to snow plow duties in winter.

The Homewood Village Board approved the purchase of two snow plow truck replacements at the July 22 meeting. Joshua Burman, Homewood director of public works, said the cost for both trucks combined is $589,587.23. Public works has a budgeted amount of $1 million for vehicle replacements.

While both trucks will be built the same, one will be specially equipped with a wing plow to improve winter operations. The two snow plows that were recommended for replacement are a 2009 truck with 16 years of service, and a 2007 truck with 18 years of service. 

“Both vehicles have exceeded their service life and have experienced extensive use,” Burman wrote in a memo to the board. 

According to Burman, staff requests approval to purchase two 2025 International chassises from Rush Truck Centers of Springfield and two truck prep packages from Henderson Products Inc. of Huntley, Illinois. 

These trucks are used by the Public Works Department year-round. The department relies on them for several uses, including transporting materials, and winter snow and ice management, he said. Department staff has been able to make small repairs on the trucks, but a major breakdown last year cost about $25,000, Burman said.

“Due to the increasing maintenance challenges and the importance of these vehicles to public safety, prioritizing the replacement of large trucks over the next several budget cycles is crucial to maintaining reliable operations,” Burman wrote. 

Anticipated delivery is between September and October this year, he said.