City Council approves police vehicle purchase totaling $168K for patrol upgrades

In a pivotal discussion during the February 4, 2025, City of Cumming work session, the police department made a compelling case for the acquisition of new vehicles to enhance patrol capabilities. Chief of Police presented a request to purchase two Dodge Chargers and one Dodge Durango, totaling $168,116.28, funded by the Police Department Foundation.

The Chief emphasized the urgency of the request, noting that the current fleet consists of older Ford Explorers, some dating back to 2016, which have accumulated significant mileage. With three new officers recently completing training, the need for reliable vehicles has become critical. The proposed Dodge vehicles will not only replace the aging fleet but also ensure that all but one officer will be in newer, silver vehicles.

The Chief highlighted that the department has over $1.4 million in the Police Department Foundation, with expectations of additional funds during tax season. He also confirmed that competitive quotes from four dealerships were obtained, ensuring the city is getting the best value for the purchase.

In a strategic move, the Chief mentioned plans to repurpose some of the older vehicles as decoy cars to deter crime, indicating a proactive approach to community safety. The discussion concluded with a call for a motion to approve the vehicle purchase, underscoring the department's commitment to maintaining an effective and modern fleet for law enforcement duties.