Committee approves asset-forfeiture funding for traffic-enforcement vehicle and authorizes two lieutenant take-home cars

The Ways and Means Committee approved using asset-forfeiture funds to acquire a dedicated traffic-enforcement vehicle and agreed to keep two lieutenant positions on take-home vehicles while deferring a handbook amendment.

Police staff said outfitting a new traffic vehicle (including computer, in-car camera, mobile ticketing and other gear) could push total costs above $100,000. Department representatives presented options for a gas-powered Tahoe/Durango or an electric model and said they were neutral on vehicle choice but constrained by equipment and outfitting costs. Staff noted some manufacturer rebates may not apply to law-enforcement vehicles and said they would double-check eligibility.

Alderman Theiss moved to approve asset-forfeiture funds for the traffic vehicle and to set aside funds from asset forfeiture to replace the vehicle in the future; Alderman Gould seconded. Committee members discussed allowing procurement flexibility in case EV production or acquisition issues arise and agreed the department should be able to switch vehicle type if needed. Roll call reflected unanimous committee support (vote recorded as unanimous in the transcript).

On a related item, police requested that two lieutenant positions retain current take-home cars. Members supported testing the arrangement and deferred formal handbook amendments and broader vehicle-replacement-policy changes until staff presents a comprehensive review next year. That motion also passed by unanimous roll call in committee.