NEW GLOUCESTER – Selectmen on Monday opted to spend an extra $10,000 to purchase a plow, body and sander for the town’s newest truck.

Howard P. Fairfield Inc. of Skowhegan won the contract with a bid of $56,645 for a Frink model full wing tower with custom tilt and detachable front hitch, and plow lights and other essential items. The unit will include a calcium system and computer spread ground sander control.

TENCO of Berwick submitted a bid of $46,582.

Public Works Director Willard Waterman argued that the TENCO bid did not meet his bid specifications for several important items. And, he said the heavier system is preferred.

For the past 25 years the town has used the Frink system successfully and service by the larger service department is preferable, he said.

New Gloucester has had exclusive experience with Howard Fairfield Inc., said Selectman Steve Libby, who voted against awarding the contract. He said it was time to change because of the higher cost to taxpayers. He said TENCO is the largest supplier of plows in Vermont and provides equipment to 20 Maine communities.

The plow and body/sander will be installed within 60 days after receipt of the truck chassis, which was ordered earlier this month.

In other business, selectmen approved the purchase and installation of a PVC rail fence for the New Gloucester Fairgrounds on the Bald Hill Road.

C and G Fence Co. of Litchfield will install 1,540 feet of fence and two 16-foot wide double swing gates at the 31-acre facility purchased by the town. The project completion date is Sept. 15. The cost of the project is $15,650.

The board agreed to hold a volunteer recognition banquet in early March at the Pineland Commons. New Gloucester relies on more than 100 volunteers who serve on various boards and committees. Included are the Planning Board, Budget Committee, Zoning Board of Appeals, Foreclosure Committee, Zoning Committee, Recreation Commission, Fire and Rescue and library trustees.