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Police chief asks council to weigh leasing vs. buying nine replacement vehicles amid LIT uncertainty
Summary
Police reported 862 calls and 462 investigations in July and presented Sourcewell pricing for nine replacement Tahoes (roughly $54,680–$58,157 each). The department recommended leasing (anticipated five-year term) but warned that potential future reductions to the local income tax (LIT) could affect the fund used for lease payments.
Paul (police department) briefed council on July statistics and the urgent need to replace the fleet. He said the department has 862 calls for service, 462 investigations during the month, and that many vehicles are reaching the end of their useful life. He presented Sourcewell quotes for 2026 Tahoes ranging from about $54,680 to $58,157 per unit and said nine vehicles would be needed to replace the aging fleet.
On financing, Paul recommended leasing as the preferable option to spread costs and noted the anticipated lease term of five years. He warned, however, that the local income tax (LIT) fund that has supported vehicle purchases could shrink in coming years and described that prospect as a material risk: "And the the loss of the lit fund is really scary to me." Council asked staff to prepare a precise financial analysis and fund-balance figures for the September meeting so members could decide on buy versus lease and the exact procurement approach.
Paul said upfitting (lights, radio, interior work) will add to per-unit costs and that staff will return with full cost estimates including upfitting and trade-in/ disposal options for current vehicles.
