In a decisive move to enhance roadway maintenance and response times, the Henry County Board of Commissioners approved a series of significant equipment purchases during their meeting on July 15, 2025. The resolutions, totaling over $1.4 million, aim to bolster the Department of Transportation's (DOT) capabilities and improve service delivery across the county.

Director Morris presented the first resolution, which greenlit the acquisition of four John Deere tractors and four Bush Hog attachments for $496,374.19. This purchase is part of a broader strategy to ensure that equipment is stationed closer to where it is needed, thereby reducing response times for maintenance requests. Morris emphasized that the new equipment will allow crews to address issues more efficiently, stating, "By aligning our people in the district, we can have a faster response time, save money, and make our constituents a lot happier."

The board also approved the purchase of two Kenworth dump trucks for $460,425 and a Vermeer wood chipper for $149,556. Additionally, two compact track loaders were approved for $260,968. All purchases will be funded through the capital improvement plan, reflecting a commitment to investing in essential infrastructure.

Commissioners expressed strong support for the initiatives, highlighting the importance of proper resources for effective district management. One commissioner noted, "This is something that I've been advocating for... it’s going to improve the service level that we provide to our citizens."

In a related discussion, the board approved the purchase of a Hunter engineering alignment rack for the fleet services, aimed at reducing outsourcing costs for vehicle maintenance. This equipment will allow the county to perform alignments in-house, potentially saving significant time and money.

The meeting concluded with a resolution for a new concession restroom facility at Cochran Park, further demonstrating the county's commitment to enhancing community amenities. As these initiatives roll out, residents can expect improved service and faster response times from their local government.