Commission authorizes purchase of fleet replacements including police SUVs and dump trucks

The City Commission on Aug. 12 authorized staff to purchase replacement fleet vehicles totaling $557,013 from Berger Chevrolet and Gorno Ford.

Dan Vanderheide, director of public works, said the equipment fund — which owns and rents vehicles to city departments — pays for replacements when units reach the end of their useful life. The approved purchase includes four police SUVs (Tahoes), an F‑150 and four small dump trucks used across the city’s operations. Vanderheide said vehicles that retain useful life are auctioned; proceeds return to the equipment fund to offset future purchases.

Commissioners voiced general support for replacing aging equipment and confirmed that surplus units are auctioned to recoup funds. The motion passed by roll call vote.