Public Safety Committee backs purchase of 13 hybrid Ford Explorers for patrol

Bob Miller, a police supervisor, asked the committee to recommend council approval for a waiver of the bid process and authorization to purchase 13 new patrol vehicles from Shawnee Mission Ford under a cooperative purchasing contract (MKCPP) in an amount not to exceed $569,478.

Miller said the department traditionally purchased Dodge Durangos but found Ford models to offer lower ownership costs; the department chose the hybrid Ford Explorer this year because the price matched the gas model. "Ford has offered it this year the same price as the regular gas model," Miller said, noting the hybrid is a "hybrid assist" system that provides modest fuel savings.

Committee members asked about annual fuel savings and electric vehicle options. Miller estimated the hybrid yields about one to two miles per gallon improvement over the non‑hybrid model and said the department is in discussions with Evergy and the city's sustainability staff about piloting electric pursuit‑rated vehicles (for example, a pursuit‑rated Blazer EV) and associated charging infrastructure.

The committee moved and unanimously approved the recommendation to the council to authorize the purchase and waive the bid process. Earlier in the meeting the committee also approved the minutes and recognized outgoing Council member Cox.

What happens next: The committee's recommendation will go to the full City Council for final approval under the normal procurement process.