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Orland Park approves $45,158 electric utility vehicle amid questions on emergency use
Summary
Trustees approved the purchase of one GEM ELXD electric utility vehicle for $45,158.60, with debate over whether the unit suits emergency management needs or is primarily for special events and parks use. Staff noted grant eligibility for electric vehicles and that the vehicle will be staged at CPW.
The Village of Orland Park Board of Trustees voted to authorize purchase of one GEM ELXD electric utility vehicle via Sourcewell cooperative contract for an amount not to exceed $45,158.60 to be used by the Emergency Management Agency (EMA) and staged at the Community Public Works (CPW) facility.
Trustees raised questions about the vehicle’s cost and suitability for emergency response versus special-event logistics. One trustee said the vehicle "kinda looks like a little mini ice cream truck" and questioned whether it would perform like an ATV or Polaris-style off-road vehicle for emergency situations. Staff responded that the unit is intended primarily for special-event logistics—transporting supplies, chairs and a sheltered enclosure for inclement weather—and that it does not preclude future purchases for EMA’s operational fleet.
Staff noted that an electric vehicle qualifies for a grant and that locating the unit at CPW allows for charging infrastructure; the vehicle’s enclosed bed, HVAC and doors were presented as advantages for event logistics. After discussion the board approved the purchase on a roll call vote with one recorded 'No.'
The approved motion authorizes the village manager to execute related contracts subject to attorney review. Staff will coordinate delivery, charging setup at CPW and assignment of operational responsibilities between EMA and parks/special-events staff.
