Warwick City Council debates $278K investment in pickup trucks for water division

Warwick City Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing its public works capabilities by approving the purchase of three utility trucks equipped with plow packages for the water division. The decision, made during the council meeting on July 7, 2025, comes with a price tag of $277,816.78 and aims to address both routine meter service and emergency response needs.

The water division chief, Jerry Ouellette, emphasized the necessity of these vehicles, stating they would serve as first responders during emergencies, such as water line breaks, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The utility bodies are designed to carry essential tools and equipment securely, which is crucial for the effective operation of the water department.

However, the proposal faced scrutiny from several council members who questioned the need for such heavy-duty vehicles for meter service tasks. Concerns were raised about the cost-effectiveness of the purchase, especially given that the existing cargo vans, which have been in service for over a decade, have adequately met the department's needs. Critics argued that the city could achieve the same operational efficiency with less expensive vehicles, suggesting that the funds could be better allocated elsewhere.

Despite the pushback, city officials defended the decision, highlighting the challenges of securing outside vendors for snow removal and the need for reliable vehicles that can handle multiple roles within the department. They pointed out that the utility trucks would not only assist in meter service but also bolster the city's snow removal efforts during winter storms.

The council's approval of this purchase reflects a broader strategy to enhance municipal services while navigating budget constraints and operational demands. As the city prepares for potential challenges ahead, including unpredictable weather patterns and infrastructure needs, the investment in these vehicles is seen as a proactive measure to ensure public safety and service reliability.