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Council approves asset-forfeiture boost toward new armored vehicle after debate
Summary
After hearing from police leaders about recent deployments and equipment limits, council approved raising asset-forfeiture contributions to fund a Lenco Bearcat replacement and declined to fully fund from general levy; vote passed 4–1.
Sioux City council approved an increase in asset-forfeiture funding to help purchase a Lenco Bearcat armored vehicle for the police department, after a lengthy debate that divided members over optics, shared regional assets and public perception.
Police leaders described limitations with the current MRAP-type vehicle and cited multiple recent deployments that, they said, demonstrated a need for a more maneuverable, purpose-built rescue and protection vehicle. "We used three armored vehicles in the incident in Hornock," a police official said, arguing the city should have an ownership stake in a modern vehicle rather than rely every time on partners.
Councilors questioned whether the city should buy a second armored vehicle and whether asset-forfeiture funds were appropriate. Some members suggested exploring refurbished options or greater use of third-party assets; others warned that the vehicle should not be used for parades or PR.
The motion to increase asset-forfeiture funding (specific transfer amount recorded in meeting minutes) passed 4–1. Council also asked for clearer reporting on asset-forfeiture expenditures and affirmed expectations that the vehicle be used only for operational needs.
Staff will return with procurement specifications and a timeline for order and delivery; police estimated up to an 18-month build time for a purpose-built replacement.
