Council approves order for 2026 police interceptor and hears update on lease-sale vehicle program

The Committee of the Whole authorized ordering a 2026 Ford Police Interceptor Aug. 19 and received an update on the police department’s lease‑sale program to obtain used squad vehicles.

Police Chief Weiner explained that ordering now protects the department from limited ordering windows and manufacturer allotment restrictions; the state‑contract price cited in the packet was $44,399.50. Chief Weiner described two outfitting options: a lower‑cost "flip" that transfers equipment from an older vehicle for roughly $6,500, or full new outfitting that would cost in the mid‑to‑high‑teens thousands. "My intent would be to budget for the 6 and then potentially pay the 12 gap with lease funds," the chief said, referring to the flip cost and the outfitting gap.

Councilors discussed delivery timing and the department’s preference to keep fleet type consistent (Ford) to reduce training and equipment differences. The motion to order the 2026 interceptor passed on roll call.

Chief Weiner, filling in for Lieutenant Ward, also updated the council on a lease‑sale (LISO) program to buy used squads with lease funds: the department bought one clean used vehicle for $8,500 and has approximately $27,000 in the lease account; staff recommended possible flexibility to raise single-purchase authority on lease funds to $20,000 to pursue strong used opportunities. Chief Weiner said earlier attempted purchases were returned because of mechanical issues and the department has a draft policy for assigning squads (not a take‑home program) in place.

The council approved ordering the interceptor and asked staff to coordinate delivery timing with budget availability and outfitters.