Summary Sheet- RFCA SUMMARY

CITY OF TEMPE
Meeting Date: 1/8/2026  
REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION
Agenda Item: 7B15
ACTION:  Approve the utilization of a six-month State of Arizona contract with Empire Southwest, LLC, 
for the purchase of a Caterpillar compact wheel loader.
FISCAL IMPACT: The total cost of the contract will not exceed $117,369.24. Sufficient funds have 
been appropriated in the Solid Waste Fund, Cost Center 3718 (Uncontained Refuse) for anticipated 
expenditures during the current fiscal year and next fiscal year, contingent upon City Council approval 
of the City’s annual budget.
RECOMMENDATION: Approve the utilization of the contract.
 
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: (CTR078503) The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) 
solicited competitive bids for pricing on various road equipment. The State awarded a contract with 
Caterpillar, locally represented by Empire Southwest, LLC.  This purchase replaces unit 870, a compact 
wheel loader in the Solid Waste Uncontained Bulk Refuse Section that has reached the end of its useful 
life and will be removed from operations as part of this purchase.
Equipment Description
Amount 
Caterpillar 903-wheel loader
$ 
108,374.18
Sales tax
$8,995.06
Total Price 
$117,369.2
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A picture of the compact wheel loader is pictured below.
ADOT developed a state-wide contract in response to the high volume of road equipment being 
purchased by government entities. ADOT secured a discount of 23% on the wheel loader, which is 
reflected in the not to exceed amount noted in the Fiscal Impact paragraph. Purchase includes standard 
manufacturer's warranty: 12 months of Premier Warranty with unlimited hours, 12 months of warranty 
field service travel time for warranty repairs, and on-site operating and safety training. The purchase 
lead time is typically 3-8 months after an order is received, pending supply chain inventory.
ATTACHMENTS: N/A
STAFF CONTACT(S): David Tavares, Deputy Public Works Director - Field Operations, (480) 350-
2819

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Department Director: Laura Calder, Financial Services Director  
Legal review by: Dave Park, Senior Assistant City Attorney
Prepared by: Alicia Ruiz, Procurement Officer