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Police seek to buy utility vehicle with forfeiture funds; applications open for eligibility list
Summary
Police reported 10 Tasers certified for officers, opened applications through Oct. 3 to reestablish an eligibility list, and proposed buying a John Deere Gator (quote $22,955.75) for crowd and event use funded from asset‑forfeiture funds.
The police chief told council the department received and certified 10 new Tasers and has implemented them for officers to carry, though none have been used in the field yet.
The department also reopened a recruitment list: applications for a police‑officer eligibility list are being accepted through Oct. 3, after which the police commissioners will interview and test applicants to create a hiring list the city can use if vacancies arise.
On equipment, the chief proposed the exclusive purchase of a John Deere Gator for departmental use at parades, festivals and downtown events, and suggested paying from asset‑forfeiture funds. He provided a vendor quote of $22,955.75 for a 2026 model and estimated $2,000–$4,000 additional cost for wrapping and lights to make it look like a police vehicle.
"We currently have $90,000 plus in that account," the chief said, referring to asset‑forfeiture funds, and council members expressed support for using restricted funds for this purpose while noting future purchases (for example a squad car) would also need to be prioritized.
Council did not take a final purchase vote at the meeting; the proposal remained under discussion pending any formal purchase authorization and compliance with fund restrictions.
