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Committee approves purchase of 24 police vehicles totaling $2.21 million
Summary
The committee approved a $2,209,187.75 purchase of 24 police vehicles (including equipment and labor) to address a depleted fleet; city staff said patrol cars are typically replaced after 5–7 years or roughly 100,000–110,000 miles.
The City of Santa Fe Finance Committee approved a purchase of 24 police vehicles, including equipment and labor costs, for a total of $2,209,187.75 from Chalmers Ford MHQ and Code 3 Service LLC. Staff said the order will help the department move toward its replacement schedule and address a current shortfall in available vehicles.
Committee members asked the police representative about replacement thresholds and the feasibility of alternative fuel vehicles. Department staff said patrol vehicles are typically retired after five to seven years or roughly 100,000–110,000 miles, when maintenance costs and wear make replacement necessary. The department also said hybrid pursuit-rated platforms previously used had mechanical problems and that transitioning to a fully electric patrol fleet would require substantial charging infrastructure and maintenance capability upgrades, making electrification infeasible for frontline patrol vehicles at present. “Right now, we’re out of vehicles,” the department said, noting vacancies and vehicles held longer than ideal because of rising manufacturing and equipment costs.
A motion to approve the purchase passed on roll call.
