Approve Replacement of Police Chief Vehicle

The Police Chief is currently driving a Ford Taurus that was purchased new in 2005.  When the vehicle was purchased, it was thought that it would last seven years and was listed in the CIP to be replaced in 2012.  The vehicle appears to be in great condition and has low mileage at 59,000 miles. The vehicle was in for routine maintenance last week and it was discovered that the frame has rusted through.  The City mechanic has indicated that he does not believe that vehicle is safe to continue to use in this condition and should be replaced immediately.  Because the vehicle appeared to be in great operating condition, it had been placed in the 2015 CIP for replacement.

Options for a vehicle for the Police Chief.
1. Continue driving the current vehicle.  Not practical or safe.
2. Use an old squad. High maintenance costs and none available at this time.
3. Seized vehicle. One not currently available.

Staff is recommending the replacement of the Police Chief's vehicle.  Staff looked at the Minnesota State bid prices for a replacement vehicle. Ford, Chevrolet and Dodge were listed and various models and prices were found.  Chevrolet Malibu was the best price in class at approximately $23,000 delivered. (see attached price summary).  The 4 cylinder Malibu is also listed at 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, making it economical to drive.  A replacement Ford Taurus was listed at over $25,000 and does not get as good of gas mileage as the Chevrolet.  A Dodge Avenger was listed at $21,200 but was somewhat smaller in size.  The City does not currently have any Dodge products and the City mechanic is somewhat unfamiliar with them.

The City staff is recommending the purchase of the Chevrolet Malibu on the MN State bid contract.

The trade in value on the 2005 Ford Taurus is estimated to be $2800 to $3000.  The emergency lights package for the new vehicle will be purchased form forfeiture funds and is estimated at $2000.  The funding for the vehicle, net of the trade-in value, will be from the Ramsey Fleet fund, which has a balance of approximately $80,000 and was funded via the sale of older police and administrative vehicles.

Motion to approve the purchase of a replacement vehicle for the Police Chief.