Oakdale — The City Council unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the purchase and outfitting of two police vehicles: a 2026 Ford Interceptor and a 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV.
The police chief said the Interceptor will replace a 2016 vehicle with more than 129,400 miles and high maintenance costs. "This vehicle has over a 129,400 miles and should be removed from the patrol fleet due to its high maintenance costs and declining reliability," the chief said. The Interceptor purchase price is $59,237.60; outfitting and emergency equipment will add $28,294.19, bringing the total for that replacement to $87,531.79 to be paid from the vehicle replacement fund.
The second purchase is a 2025 Chevy Blazer EV from Steve's Chevrolet for $63,755.71, with outfitting costs of $22,697.50, for a total of $86,453.21 charged to the supplemental law enforcement fund. The chief said EVs have proven more reliable and can reduce operating costs; he estimated the department has seen significant fuel‑cost reductions in recent years.
Council members asked about vendor selection for outfitting and whether local shops were solicited; the chief and staff explained Jay's Tires was selected because it performs police vehicle builds and installs the specialized equipment, not merely sells tires.
The resolution also authorizes surplusing the department’s identified vehicles. Council approved the measure by a 5‑0 roll call.