Williston OKs phased take‑home vehicle program for police, citing retention and fleet longevity

Commissioner Bervig proposed a two‑year, phased take‑home vehicle program for the Williston Police Department and the City Commission voted unanimously to approve it on Feb. 24.

Bervig, identified in the agenda as a commissioner, said the program is intended to improve recruitment and retention, and to reduce wear on vehicles used round‑the‑clock. “This is an investment in our people first and foremost, and in the long term stability in one of the two arms of our public safety operation,” he told colleagues, adding the city invests “just under $90,000 to run recruits through training.”

City Administrator Shawn Wenko and Finance Director Hercules Cummings explained the payment timing: the vendor invoices when vehicles are delivered, so the commission could order in 2026 and delay final payment to a 2027 delivery, or accommodate the cost with a 2026 budget amendment. Finance Commissioner Bekkedahl urged caution about off‑budget spending and suggested that, if delivered in 2026, the commission identify reductions so the year does not end in deficit.

Police Chief Steven Gutknecht supported the program, saying a take‑home vehicle is a significant recruitment and retention tool and fosters officer ownership of assigned equipment. “It is a huge benefit to have a take home vehicle as a patrol officer,” he said.

On a motion by Commissioner Bervig, seconded by Commissioner Bekkedahl, the commission approved a phased program that begins with six end‑of‑life patrol units and targets a follow‑through purchase in fiscal 2027 to normalize the replacement cycle; the motion included a pending legal review. The vote was 5‑0.

Next steps: staff will work with legal to finalize the program terms and with finance on the timing of orders and payments so the purchase aligns with delivery schedules and the city’s budgeting plan.