WATERTOWN, S.D.(KXLG)- The Watertown City Council Monday night approved the purchase of a new 2025 Toro Groundsmaster 4100D Wide Area Mower for the Parks Division. The acquisition, although necessary to replace aging equipment, sparked a notable discussion about the increasing impact of tariffs on city expenditures.

City Manager Alan Stager explained that the new Toro mower, boasting a mowing deck exceeding 11 feet in width, is being purchased through a Sourcewell contract.

During the discussion, Councilman Doug Allen specifically questioned the city’s experience with tariffs and their potential future implications. City Manager Stager responded.

Reports from the Dakota Institute for Business and Economic Analysis released earlier this year highlighted that tariffs could add an estimated $296 million in import costs for South Dakota, with the potential for the figure to rise depending on specific trade policies. For municipalities like Watertown, this translates directly into higher procurement costs for essential equipment and materials.

The motion to authorize the purchase of the 2025 Toro Groundsmaster 4100D Wide Area Mower passed with all council members present voting in favor.