Libby approves application to state tourism fund to seek $75,000 for a patrol vehicle

The Libby City Council voted to allow submission of an application for the Montana Emergency Tourism Assistance Program grant that would provide up to $75,000 toward a professionally outfitted patrol vehicle.

Police Chief Uren Brock told the council the program provides $75,000 from lodging-facility taxes to support emergency services; he said the grant requires no local match and would help replace or backfill vehicles so patrol operations are not compromised when a car is out of service.

Chief Brock described the department’s current fleet limitations and the operational benefits of a fully outfitted vehicle, saying the city has only six vehicles and losing one creates complications. He told the council the typical cost for an un-outfitted patrol vehicle is about $45,000 and a fully equipped vehicle (wiring, cameras, radar and other outfitting) commonly costs about $64,000, which suggests the $75,000 award could cover purchase and professional outfitting but might require additional local spending depending on final specs.

During public comment Karen Bins (1210 Dakota Avenue) asked whether the grant covers drug interdiction or enforcement-specific equipment and whether the city could obtain two vehicles; Chief Brock responded that the grant language lists police vehicles as eligible projects and that, while the $75,000 award would not likely buy two fully equipped cars, it would substantially offset the cost of one professionally outfitted vehicle.

Outcome: Council approved the motion to allow the city to submit the grant application; the approval authorizes staff to proceed with the application but does not commit the city to purchase until awarded and budget decisions are finalized.

Next steps: Staff will submit the application and return with cost estimates and recommended procurement/outfitting options if the city receives the grant.