City officials will vote on a $302,069 contract for a new, 20-ton boom crane truck this week that will replace a 24-year-old vehicle used by the water resources department to move and lift heavy loads.
The contract with Ring Power Corporation will be voted on during the Ocala City Council’s regular meeting on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
According to city records, the water resources department’s current crane is 24 years old and rated for eight tons. As a result, it has surpassed its operational lifespan and is “inadequate for current workload requirements.”
“Upgrading to a new crane will significantly reduce downtime, minimize maintenance costs, and enhance overall productivity,” reads the city staff report.
In November, the city’s fleet management division was granted a procurement exception to piggyback a contract obtained by the city of Tallahassee with Ring Power Corporation. That city’s 5-year contract with the company runs through March 31, 2025.
The National Crane model number 671E2 is rated for 20 tons and is one of five models in the 600E2 Series of boom trucks from the brand.
Boom cranes are used for lifting and moving heavy loads and are considered “essential tools.” The extendable boom allows the vehicles to reach difficult positions, making them ideal for removing and servicing heavy well pumps and motors.
“A 20-ton boom crane will significantly improve efficiency and safety by providing a reliable solution for handling heavy loads,” reads the city staff report.
The Ocala City Council regularly meets on the first and third Tuesday of every month at Ocala City Hall (110 SE Watula Avenue) at 4 p.m.
