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Fort Recovery council weighs cruiser replacement options after breakdown
Summary
Council members and the police chief discussed cruiser problems and compared available models — a 2024 Durango and 2025 Explorer — agreeing to test-drive options before deciding on a replacement.
Fort Recovery — Council members and the police chief discussed options for replacing a police cruiser that recently experienced mechanical failure and was repaired at nearly $1,000 for radiator work.
The chief reported the Charger went down and required towing and repairs; staff described available alternatives including a 2024 Dodge Durango (roughly $65,000 without decals or rear storage) and a 2025 Ford Explorer. Councilors debated performance differences—acceleration, heat management and turning radius—and agreed to arrange test drives before committing to a purchase.
Why it matters: The village needs reliable patrol vehicles for weekend events such as the upcoming WOW festival; the chief said four officers will work Saturday and requested four additional officers from other agencies. Council discussed warranty coverage and existing supply lead times and directed staff to arrange visits and test drives.
Council direction: No purchase motion was made. Jared Laux and other staff will inspect available models, test-drive both the Explorer and the Durango, compare features and prices, and report back to council for a future decision.
Quote: "If we want an Explorer, it would be a matter of signing a PO and saying yes," Laux said; he added that prices are being locked in by dealers and that differences between the two models were "a close one within $200." The mayor encouraged on-site visits and test drives before committing.
Next steps: Staff to return with recommendation after comparison and test drives; council retained discretion on color, package and timing of any order.
