Bel Air approves purchase of four Ford AWD police SUVs; underbudget by $33,924

The Bel Air Board of Town Commissioners on Aug. 18 approved the purchase of four all‑wheel‑drive Ford police interceptors from Apple Ford Lincoln, using a State of Maryland cooperative contract, for $186,076. Chief Moore told the board the purchase includes three replacement vehicles and one additional vehicle to supplement the department’s fleet. Staff said the vehicles follow the department replacement schedule and are intended to replace cars with 70,000–87,000 miles. The town’s FY26 budget contains $220,000 for the purchase and staff noted the bid amount is $33,924 under budget. Why it matters: The replacement vehicles are intended to maintain dependable emergency response capability. Staff also noted police vehicles operate as “rolling computer offices,” and that repeated starting and stopping can shorten equipment life, which supports a scheduled replacement program. Procurement: Town staff explained the purchase uses a State of Maryland blanket purchase contract awarded through competitive bids; Apple Ford Lincoln is the state contract holder for these law enforcement vehicles. The contract being piggybacked expires on Feb. 28, 2026, per staff. Budget and equipment: Commissioners asked whether additional costs for the vehicle accessory and equipment package were included; Chief Moore said the accessory package will be brought forward separately and that separate FY26 budget funds already exist for outfitting the vehicles. The motion to accept the bid passed unanimously; Mr. Krantz recorded the roll call: Commissioner Rutledge, Commissioner Chismar, Commissioner Taylor and Chair Eddington voted “Aye.”