Let’s be honest. Highway departments aren’t exactly swimming in cash. Budgets are ALWAYS tight, equipment is expensive, and the wish list always seems longer than the purchase list. But here’s a smart move more and more towns are using: inter-municipal agreements (IMAs).
In plain terms, an IMA is just a formal agreement between two (or more) municipalities to share resources. And one of the biggest wins? Access to equipment your department can’t afford to buy on its own.
Why It Makes Sense
Say your town needs a street sweeper once a year. Or maybe a large excavator would be handy a couple times each season, but there’s no way you can justify buying one. Neighboring towns are in the same boat, and one of them may already own that machine.
Rather than renting from a private company or just doing without, an IMA lets you team up and share the gear. You get access when you need it, without footing the entire bill. That’s a win for your roads and your taxpayers.
What You Can Share
Here are a few pieces of equipment that are commonly shared through IMAs:
- Sweepers
- Excavators
- Graders
- Shoulder machines
- Lowboy trailers
- Brush chippers
- Pavers
- Large rollers
It can also go beyond equipment; things like salt sheds, fuel depots, and even staff expertise can be shared under the right agreement.
How It Works
The process is pretty straightforward:
- Talk to your neighboring superintendents. Find out what they have, what they’re willing to share, and what you might be able to offer in return.
- Work with your municipal board or attorney. IMAs need to be properly authorized and documented. You’ll want a clear agreement on things like scheduling, maintenance responsibilities, insurance, and liability.
- Put it on paper. A written agreement protects everyone involved and helps avoid misunderstandings.
- Keep the communication going. Regularly check in with your partner towns to make sure everything’s working smoothly.
A Few Tips
- Think regionally. The more towns involved, the more resources you all can access.
- Be fair. No one wants to feel like they’re giving more than they’re getting. Track equipment use and stick to the agreement.
- Maintain equipment well. Shared equipment should be treated with respect – like it’s your own, because in a way, it is.
IMAs are a great way to stretch your department’s capabilities without stretching the budget to the breaking point. A little cooperation can go a long way toward keeping your roads in good shape, and building good relationships with your fellow superintendents never hurts, either.