Council approves up to $16 million for new twin‑engine police helicopter after debate

The Phoenix City Council on June 3 approved a government services contract that gives the city authority to purchase a twin‑engine helicopter and related parts and services under an Airbus airframe contract, with a not‑to‑exceed amount discussed by staff of roughly $16 million.

The item generated pointed questioning from Councilwoman Hernandez, who cited a 2014 city auditor review that concluded the police air unit "is larger than required to meet current air patrol levels" and suggested fleet reductions could be made without impairing service. Hernandez told colleagues she would vote against the purchase, calling it "fiscally irresponsible" to add to air‑unit spending while community needs remain underfunded.

Assistant Chief Lee, who responded to council questions, said the request was targeted at obtaining a twin‑engine airframe because that configuration is "the only ... capable of doing mountain rescues" and supports a range of public‑safety missions. Lee outlined the current fleet as comprising six patrol helicopters, one rescue twin‑engine helicopter under consideration for replacement, and two fixed‑wing aircraft used for other missions.

Councilwoman Gordado and other members expressed support for the acquisition as a tool for search, rescue and public‑safety operations; Gordado noted the helicopters assist with locating missing persons and supporting mountain rescues alongside Phoenix Fire Department units.

After discussion and roll call, the council approved the contract authorization with a recorded vote that the clerk transcribed as passing 8–1, with Hernandez the lone recorded no vote.

The motion allows staff to execute the government services agreement and proceed with procurements under its terms; the transcript records requests by council members for follow‑up detail and a possible updated audit or usage report comparing current fleet utilization to the 2014 audit.