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Council approves purchase of three electric Ford F-150 Lightnings after debate over field utility needs
Summary
Council authorized purchase of three electric Ford F‑150 trucks in lieu of three electric SUVs to replace ER&R vehicles, citing better suitability for engineering and field work; some council members raised concerns about five‑foot beds, towing capacity and winter range.
The City Council approved a resolution Sept. 25 authorizing the purchase of three electric Ford F‑150 Lightning trucks to replace three vehicles currently budgeted as electric SUVs.
Staff told the council the FY2025–26 budget included funding to replace three ER&R SUVs, but the engineering and field operations groups requested pickup trucks that better meet operational needs. Staff proposed procuring 2025 model Ford F‑150 Lightnings through the state DES contract with Bud Clary Ford at an estimated cost of about $72,000–$80,000 each before tax credits; staff later cited a total purchase price of $177,437 for the three vehicles. The purchase was characterized as replacing three budgeted SUVs with electric pickups; staff also noted the city has charging infrastructure at Public Works.
Council discussion included operational suitability and timing. Several council members raised concerns a five‑foot bed is too short for maintenance crews, limits hauling and trailer towing, and that current electric pickup models may not meet heavy field‑work needs or winter range expectations. One council member noted the vehicles were intended primarily for engineers and stormwater staff, not heavy equipment maintenance, and that the fleet also includes fossil‑fuel trucks for high‑capacity hauling.
Staff said two of the trucks are for engineering and one for stormwater; the vehicles are to be used and parked at Public Works where charging is available. Council also heard that two 2025 model Lightnings were available at the dealership and that pricing could rise if the city delayed the purchase; staff indicated a procurement timing window that required a decision before the end of the month.
Council adopted the resolution authorizing the purchases; the clerk recorded one member voting in opposition and the resolution passed.
What happens next: Staff will execute purchase orders consistent with the approved resolution and coordinate delivery and fleet outfitting; charging infrastructure at Public Works will be used to support the vehicles.
