City Council approves purchase of larger AM 800 marine vessel for police service

The Cape Coral City Council convened on June 4, 2025, to discuss a significant upgrade to the city's marine capabilities, focusing on the purchase of a new patrol vessel. The council is considering a shift from the originally proposed AM 700 model to the larger AM 800 vessel, which offers enhanced performance and safety features.

During the meeting, a council member highlighted the differences between the two vessels, noting that the AM 700 is 23 feet long with a 7-foot beam, while the AM 800 measures 27 feet with an 8-foot beam. This size difference is crucial for operations, especially in inclement weather, as the larger vessel can better handle rough conditions. The council member likened the difference in capability to responding to emergencies in a compact car versus a full-sized SUV.

The financial implications of this decision were also discussed. The cost difference between the two vessels is approximately $23,213, which the council member argued is a worthwhile investment for the added safety and operational efficiency. The police chief expressed support for the upgrade, emphasizing the importance of having a reliable vessel for emergency responses.

Importantly, the funding for this purchase will not come from the city’s general fund. Instead, it will be financed through grants and confiscated funds, ensuring that taxpayers will not bear the cost. The council is considering an amendment to the resolution to increase the budget for the vessel purchase to a maximum of $325,000, which includes the cost of a trailer.

As the council deliberates, they are also addressing logistical concerns, such as storage and trailering for the larger vessel. The council member confirmed that both vessel options include a trailer in their pricing, alleviating some concerns about storage and transport.

The decision to upgrade to the AM 800 vessel reflects the council's commitment to enhancing public safety and ensuring that the police department has the necessary tools to effectively serve the community. The council is expected to finalize their decision in the coming weeks, with the aim of improving marine operations for Cape Coral.