Troy Police to buy armored rescue vehicle using drug‑forfeiture funds; council approves budget amendment

Troy City Council voted unanimously to approve the Police Department’s purchase of a Lenco BearCat G2 armored rescue vehicle and a corresponding budget amendment of $26,108 to cover the price difference between estimate and quote.

Police Chief Josh Jones presented the request, saying the BearCat is an “armored rescue vehicle” intended for the department’s Tactical Support Team to use during critical incidents, including rescue of civilians or officers under fire. Jones also said the vehicle will be configured to provide medical treatment and limited fire‑suppression capability, and that similar armored vehicles have been useful in weather emergencies and large‑scale incidents.

The department secured a GSA cooperative purchase quote of $426,108; staff had budgeted $400,000 and requested the supplemental $26,108 from the police department’s drug‑forfeiture fund. Chief Jones said the fund derives from state and federal forfeitures and is restricted to public‑safety uses allowed by statute and forfeiture program rules.

Council Member Hodorick moved the resolution and Mayor Pro Tem Gunn supported it. The roll call vote was unanimous: Council Member Chamberlain Kringa — yes; Council Member Chanda — yes; Mayor Pro Tem Gunn — yes; Council Member Hamilton — yes; Council Member Hodorick — yes; Mayor Baker — yes; Council Member Brooks — yes.

Council members asked about lead time for delivery (staff estimated about 18 months) and whether the vehicle would be used in community outreach events (staff said yes — e.g., touch‑a‑truck and public safety events). Chief Jones and staff also said the city has mutual‑aid arrangements and would coordinate armored responses regionally when appropriate.

Provenance: The item introduced by Police Chief Josh Jones, with subsequent council questions and unanimous approval.