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Fort Recovery police present options for cruiser replacement; cost estimates range from about $5,000 to $11,000
Summary
Police Chief Jared Laux outlined repair and replacement options for a cruiser with mechanical and fueling problems, saying a used engine option would cost just under $5,000 while a remanufactured Chrysler engine would be just under $11,000; council discussed using an unmarked backup cruiser.
Police Chief Jared Laux told the Village of Fort Recovery council on Oct. 21 that the department is weighing repair versus replacement for a patrol cruiser that has fueling and battery issues.
Laux said a used engine option—described in the minutes as carrying a limited warranty—would run just under $5,000, while a Chrysler remanufactured engine would cost just under $11,000. He described the used-engine route as carrying less warranty coverage. "If we do this, we would have an unmarked cruiser," Laux said, noting the vehicle could serve as a backup cruiser while the department retains equipment from the current marked car.
Council members raised cost and longevity concerns. Council member Luke Knapke said he believed the vehicle could become a "money pit," and Mayor Dave Kaup said an additional officer would make the purchase more justifiable. Laux noted maintenance considerations, saying cruisers in the fleet are upgraded on average every 10–12 years and that the current vehicle is a 2018 model he plans to keep in service as long as feasible.
Laux also flagged more immediate problems with the cruiser: a battery replacement is needed and the fuel tank exhibits an overflow issue that prevents filling above three-quarters capacity. He said staff will proceed with stripping the cruiser down if that is council’s consensus.
No motion or vote on the cruiser purchase or engine replacement was recorded in the minutes; council discussion left the decision to future staff recommendations and potential quotes to be provided by a local mechanic.
