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Williamsport council approves state-funded Lenco Bearcat after debate over policing and regional role
Summary
The Williamsport City Council unanimously approved a state‑funded purchase of a 2026 Lenco Bearcat armored vehicle on April 2, 2026, a $353,529 acquisition paid by a grant the chief said was provided through the state; council members debated deployment limits and whether the resource should be a countywide asset.
Williamsport’s City Council voted April 2 to accept a state grant purchase of a 2026 Lenco Bearcat armored vehicle, a $353,529 acquisition that council members and the police chief said will cost the city no local tax dollars.
Chief Taviano told council the vehicle is funded by a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and is sponsored by state lawmakers. He described the Bearcat as a multi‑purpose vehicle that ‘‘protects civilians and first responders in high‑risk situations’’ and can be used for armed threats, barricaded subjects, and…
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