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Council authorizes emergency vehicle purchases after marked squad totaled; council also approves new aerial‑lift truck
Summary
After a marked public safety vehicle was totaled in a July crash, the council authorized purchasing a 2026 Chevy Tahoe (approx. $68,000) for Public Safety and approved purchase of a 2027 Freightliner M2 aerial‑lift truck (approx. $261,650) for Public Works; the city attorney outlined limited immediate civil recovery options.
Deputy City Manager Dave DeCoster told council that a marked public‑safety vehicle was totaled when, during a traffic stop, a drunk driver rear‑ended the vehicle in the early morning hours of July 25. Staff recommended purchasing a 2026 Chevy Tahoe through the state contract with an estimated cost of about $68,000 and using the general fund fund balance for the purchase; if approved, delivery was expected in two to three weeks.
Director Cooper described the crash and said the driver was intoxicated, arrested and charged. City Attorney advised the council that the city can pursue up to $4,000 under Michigan's mini‑tort statute and could seek restitution under the Michigan Crime Victims Relief Act if the driver is convicted or pleads no contest. Council also approved purchasing a 2027 Freightliner M2 with upfitting for approximately $261,650 to restore aerial‑lift capability for tree trimming; staff said funding is available by reprioritizing planned vehicle purchases. The motions carried on roll call.
