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Quartzsite council approves two police SUVs and introduces interim chief
Summary
Council approved purchase of two fully outfitted 2026 Ford Explorers for $133,067.54 and the town introduced an interim police leader, Ned Haidu, to manage the department during the chief search.
The Quartzsite Common Council on April 14 approved the purchase of two fully outfitted 2026 four-wheel-drive Ford Explorers for the Police Department, at a total cost of $133,067.54. The vehicles were presented as budgeted and part of the department’s planned rotation.
Lieutenant (department representative) described the vehicles as new 2026 models and said outfitting will be completed through the town’s chosen vendor; council members asked whether winches would be included and were told the bumpers and winches are not yet available for that model and would be considered in a future budget if needed. Council member Nichols moved to approve the purchase; Council member Bearkat seconded the motion and the council voted in favor with no nays or abstentions.
At the same agenda item, Town Manager Ferguson told the council the department’s long-term police chief position will be filled through a search that may take three to four months; in the meantime the town has brought on an interim to manage administrative duties and evening shifts. The interim, introduced on the record as Ned Haidu, addressed the council, described a 30-plus year law enforcement background and said he will be a "working chief" who will be visible on day and night shifts.
No public comment was offered on the vehicle purchase. Councilmembers noted the purchases were budgeted and part of a five-year rotation plan for fleet replacement. The purchase motion passed unanimously.
