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Amarillo council approves new police motorcycles after debate over make and local service
Summary
After public debate about buying BMW vs. Harley-Davidson machines and concerns about local maintenance, council approved replacement of aging police motorcycles (item 8G) 5‑0 following presentations by police and fleet staff citing safety and upfitting parity.
The Amarillo City Council approved a consent‑agenda item May 13 to replace police motorcycles after a public debate over model choice, cost and local maintenance.
The item (8G) drew several public speakers who urged buying American and supporting local dealers. One speaker noted online pricing that suggested new Harleys cost about $25,000 and urged staff to shop locally. Another speaker, Jackie Payne, a participant in the Amarillo Citizens Police Academy, encouraged the council to approve the scheduled replacement so officers have safe equipment.
Chief Johnson of the Amarillo Police Department told council the motors unit had requested the switch to BMW bikes on safety grounds. “My officers that are riding them every day are telling me how they’re safer, they’re more maneuverable, the braking is better,” Chief Johnson said, explaining the department’s recommendation.
Fleet staff and council members said apparent MSRP differences narrowed once police‑specific upfitting was included. City staff added that a local service provider is approved for preventive maintenance on the BMWs, while major warranty work would go to a larger metro area. Jason Jup, the fleet superintendent, said the city is pursuing certification for local mechanics to service the new bikes.
The council approved the item by voice vote, 5‑0. The agenda discussion referenced an estimated purchase price discussed publicly before the meeting — about $248,000 for seven units, an average of roughly $35,000 each after upfitting was included — and council members said safety and performance informed the decision.
What it means: The motors unit will receive new bikes upfitted for police use and staff said they will work to maintain as much local service capability as possible. Councilmembers said they tried to balance local procurement preferences with the department’s equipment and safety needs.
