The State of Montana conducts an annual competitive bidding process for law enforcement vehicles.  Pursuant to MCA 18-4-402, local government agencies are permitted to take advantage of the cost savings realized by the State's purchasing volume.  Cooperative purchasers benefit by purchasing through State term contracts through cost savings, expedited order processing, as well as insuring all procurement is completed via proper procurement rules governed by the State and City.

Historically, BPD has acquired new vehicles through the State's bid process, and the State has always included an awarded contract to each of the three main manufacturers.  In 2020, a bid was issued and an award was made for a midsize pursuit-rated SUV to Duval Ford of Jacksonville, Florida, and no other awards were made to other manufacturers.  Fortunately, the awarded contract was for the vehicle in BPD's fleet and the City was able to utilize the State's contract.

Staff is requesting that the City Council approve the purchase of ten (10) 2021 Ford Interceptor SUV vehicles from Duval Ford through the State of Montana's Term Contract, as historically completed, in the amount of $359,030. Vehicles that are being replaced will be sold a the City's bi-annual auction.

The City Council may:

• Approve the purchase of the 10 vehicles from Duval Ford; or,
• Disapprove the purchase of the 10 vehicles from Duval Ford and require BPD to issue a formal call for sealed bids, delaying the procurement by at least 8 months.

Ten police replacement vehicles are budgeted in the FY 2021 Equipment Replacement Fund budget. 

Staff recommends that the City Council approve the purchase of ten (10) 2021 Ford Interceptor SUV vehicles from Duval Ford in the amount of $359,030.