The City of Sequim has purchased a new combination vacuum and jet (VAC/JET) truck to be used for multiple purposes in the Public Works Department.

The new truck replaces a 1997 VAC/JET truck that was purchased by the city in 2005 and was in need of extensive maintenance and repair.

The new truck is expected to be in use for the next 20-30 years.

“The VAC/JET truck is undoubtedly one of the most valuable and most used pieces of equipment that the city owns,” said Public Works Director Paul Haines.

Haines said the demand for and use of the VAC/JET truck has expanded dramatically in the past four years, as the Public Works department has shifted from a reactive to a pro-active and preventative maintenance model.

The VAC/JET truck is used for maintenance and emergencies in the sewer system, water system, Water Reclamation Facility and storm water catch basin maintenance.

The new truck is equipped with a water tank, pressure pumps, high pressure hose and jetting nozzles, vacuum lifting tube, waste storage tank, truck and chassis, worksite lighting and emergency lighting.

In the procurement process Public Works staff evaluated five different combination vacuum/jet truck manufacturers to determine which would best fit the city’s needs.

The new VAC/JET truck cost $400,000 and was paid for by monies budgeted in the 2013 Sewer Replacement Reserve Funds.