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Consideration of request from the Fire Department to purchase fire fleet vehicles in advance of approval of the 2026 capital improvement budget
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Submitted by:
Jim Case, Fire Chief
Department:
Fire Department
A. Issue
To avoid long vendor delivery delays, vehicle manufacturer shortages, and additional price increases due to ongoing supply chain issues, we are asking for pre-approval to begin ordering the 2026 fire fleet vehicles.
B. Background/Options
Every year, the Fire Department purchases vehicles to replace the aging fleet and utilizes capital budget funds. We purchase these vehicles using the State bid process, numerous Sourcewell contracts, and sole-source purchases from our local vendors when needed. This approach allows the City to ensure competitive pricing for all purchases made.
We are requesting approval to order one 2026 replacement staff vehicle and one utility replacement vehicle in 2025, in alignment with the current city fleet processes. These vehicles will be replacing a 2016 Chevy Tahoe, currently driven by the Battalion Chief of Training, and a 2013 GMC pickup truck, currently driven by the mechanic.
C. Strategic Plan (Area of Focus)
Priority 3: Infrastructure
D. Fiscal Impact
These are replacement vehicles; funds have already been set aside and will be reflected in the 2026 capital budget. The total cost for the replacement of these vehicles will be approximately $120,000.00, and payment will not be due until the vehicles are received in 2026.
E. Recommendation
Authorization to order the Fire Department replacement vehicles that are planned to be replaced in 2026 within the capital budget of $120,000.00.