Neosho County commissioners approved buying a fold-down truck bed for the county’s 2016 Ford F-450 ambulance for $16,350 from Young’s Welding, to be paid from the equipment reserve account.

The proposed bed — designed so the sides fold down for easier unloading of materials such as cold patch — received broad support. One commissioner moved to approve the purchase; the motion was seconded and passed with all in favor.

Road & Bridge staff said the bed will make the ambulance more useful for county operations such as moving cold patch, assisting in chip-and-seal operations and other maintenance duties. Commissioners preferred buying locally from Young’s Welding, which had a slightly higher quote but avoided travel and logistics costs.

Staff will coordinate installation and ensure the vehicle is available for roads work as required.