Saline Purchases Two Police Vehicles

Saline City Council approved the purchase of two vehicles for the Saline Police Department’s fleet, not to exceed $113,000, on June 22.

“While the City typically replaces one patrol vehicle annually, the Police Department is currently operating some fleet vehicles beyond their intended replacement cycle, resulting in increased maintenance and repair costs that now outweigh the value of retaining the vehicles in service,” the June 22 meeting agenda reads.

The purchased vehicles will be 2026 Chevrolet Tahoes, in contrast with other vehicles in the fleet, which are Ford Explorers. When asked about the change by council member Janet Dillon, Director of Public Services Brandon McNeil explained the cost effectiveness of the decision.

“The chief complaint with [the current vehicles] is there’s too much ongoing maintenance in order to keep up with them, and therefore they’re trying to switch to a vehicle that’s more reliable,” McNeil said.

The price quoted for the vehicles does not include necessary upgrades to make them fit for police duty. A separate contract will be negotiated for that work. According to McNeil, the current estimate for upgrade work is around $22,000 per vehicle.

Currently, a decision has not been made regarding what will be done with the two vehicles being replaced.

The council approved the purchase of the new vehicles 6-0, with Mayor Brian Marl absent.