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Wagoner County weighs leasing program to replace aging patrol fleet
Summary
After extensive discussion, the Wagoner County commissioners approved moving forward with a three-year lease program to refresh patrol vehicles, contingent on the county attorney's approval 'as to form.' Proponents said leasing six vehicles could save the county money and reduce long-term maintenance costs.
County law-enforcement leaders urged commissioners to shift from purchasing to leasing patrol vehicles to reduce maintenance costs and keep vehicles under warranty.
Chief deputy and sheriff's office staff described a leasing program that would rotate six Ford Explorer patrol vehicles every three years and, they said, would save the county money compared with an outright purchase. Chief deputy (presenting) said the lease proposal would cost about $299,000 for six vehicles over three years versus roughly $362,000 under the purchase scenario discussed earlier; staff said the leasing company calculates a residual value and expects to return approximately $14,140 per vehicle at the end of a three-year lease.
Sheriff's staff emphasized maintenance savings: "We don't have to have a million dollars a year to keep our fleet up and running," Deputy Dustin Darr said, arguing the fleet service program would reduce maintenance outlays and surplus inventory. Commissioners asked about mileage restrictions, disposal of light kits and radios, the ability to exit the lease early and how the leasing company handles equipment; staff said lighting packages would be attached to the lease and that radios would be retained by the county.
Legal staff and the county attorney's office reviewed the draft lease and requested minor corrections. Commissioners voted to approve the lease arrangement with the condition that the county attorney confirm the agreement is "as to form"; staff were directed to complete final legal review and proceed.
The board also discussed how previously approved purchases (a five-vehicle package previously approved using Welch Bank financing) would be handled; staff said the leasing company could buy the already-ordered vehicles from the bank so the transaction could proceed without penalty but that surplus procedures may still be necessary for vehicles the county later turns over.
Outcome and next steps: the board approved the lease approach contingent on attorney approval as to form. Staff will finalize contract corrections and work with the leasing company and Welch Bank on the remaining financing and surplus steps.
