City staff asked commissioners to keep on the consent agenda a change order adding $65,000 to a prior purchase order with Lakeland Auto Mall for vehicle body repairs to city fleet vehicles.

Staff said the work covers materials, parts and labor for crash repairs and other bodywork; the original purchase order was issued for $220,000 and previously increased to $270,000. The additional $65,000 would bring the total authorized amount for the purchase order to cover the remainder of the fiscal year. Funding for the change order is available in the FY25 Fleet Management budget, staff said.

Commissioners and members of the public discussed why costs were rising; staff and a fleet representative said repair and parts costs have increased and that crash frequency has risen in recent months, which together are driving higher expenditures. Staff also told commissioners the contract has one-year renewal increments and a potential five-year term if performance warrants and they can rebid at the end of that term; heavy-truck repairs are performed by a separate vendor (Kenworth in Orlando).

A member of the public asked whether the city pursues insurance recoveries for collisions; staff said the city does seek reimbursement from third‑party insurers but litigation and settlement processes can be lengthy, which is why funds are available to cover immediate repairs.

The transcript shows staff presented the recommendation and the commission agreed to keep the item on the consent agenda; no formal recorded vote appears in the excerpt provided.