Council approves purchase of 2025 police interceptor; staff cites delivery and K‑9 needs

The Jacksonville City Council approved the purchase of a 2025 four‑wheel‑drive Ford police interceptor to replace a patrol vehicle, with council authorization for staff to proceed up to the maximum amount discussed at the meeting.

City Manager James presented the request and said the city sought pre‑purchase authority for a 2025 4x4 Ford police interceptor and that three bids were received. "I am asking for your consideration, for that to be in an amount not to exceed $53,004.30," City Manager James said, adding that the staff's preferred vendor, EAG Ford, was lower but that delivery timeliness was a concern.

Council members moved and seconded a motion to approve the purchase. The council voted by voice; the motion carried with no announced opposition. During the discussion council members noted the city budgets to replace three police vehicles annually and said the purchase would count toward the FY 2026 vehicle replacements. Staff said the unit would support the department's two K‑9 officers and was chosen in part to avoid additional maintenance costs on the existing K‑9 vehicle.

City Manager James said staff intends to work with EAG Ford, noting the lower bid from that vendor, but recommended pre‑purchase authority at the higher not‑to‑exceed amount to allow timely acquisition if other vendors could not meet delivery needs. Staff described available cash balances as the funding source but did not specify the precise fund name.

No formal amendments were made to the motion. The council directed staff to complete the procurement consistent with the approved authorization.