Rangely accepts two donated police vehicles with spending cap until new manager reviews budget

The Rangely Town Council voted to accept two decommissioned Ford Interceptor patrol vehicles donated by the Town of Eagle and placed a restriction on spending to outfit the vehicles until the incoming town manager can review funding options.

Chief Hamlin described the opportunity as a cost‑effective way to add vehicles that come largely outfitted (radios included) and said outfitting and matching in‑car computers to town systems would cost up to $15,000. Council members expressed appreciation for the chief’s resourcefulness but raised budget concerns: they noted the town was over budget last year by roughly $109,000, questioned whether the council should authorize immediate spending, and discussed alternatives (holding the vehicles in storage, using unmarked cars, installing older radars, or trimming other controllable budget lines).

After debate — including a motion to table that was rescinded — council approved a motion to accept the donated vehicles but agreed no expenses from the proposed $15,000 would be spent until the new town manager begins work and works with the chief to find funding. The chief said the town’s fleet manager would inspect the vehicles on Jan. 27 and that the gifts come with substantial installed equipment, reducing incremental cost. Council asked staff to send a thank‑you to the Town of Eagle if the donation proceeds.