Morris Township approves two vehicle purchases after extended debate over EV policy and procurement

The Morris Township Committee approved purchase authorizations for two municipal vehicles on Dec. 18, 2024, following an extended discussion about the township’s long-term goal of converting its fleet to electric vehicles (EVs) and the practical limits of state cooperative purchasing.

Deputy Mayor Graysell framed the debate, saying the committee has tried for years to move the fleet toward EVs: "we have wanted to do this... we have not been able to purchase cars, through state contracts or co ops," and noted the township had installed EV chargers at town hall and in other locations. Township Administrator Tim Quinn described supply-chain and cost constraints, saying the township had budgeted $40,000 per vehicle in 2024 but that recent EV models can exceed $50,000 when outfitting and required options are included. "We did purchase a hybrid EV vehicle that was ordered just before COVID... and that is operational," Quinn said, noting long delivery waits in prior years.

The committee debated procurement options, including going out to bid, forming a local buying group with neighboring municipalities, and encouraging dealers to respond to bids. Several members urged planning and larger budget allocations to allow EV purchases going forward; others pressed that operational needs and revenue-matching requirements for construction-related vehicles limit flexibility. One council member said the co-ops have not delivered EV options consistently and urged pursuing bids directly when feasible.

Two purchase resolutions were approved. A resolution authorizing the purchase of a 2024 Ford Ranger XLT crew cab 4x4 for the Building Department (not to exceed $36,309.25) was approved by roll call; the clerk called the vote and the mayor declared the resolution passed. A separate resolution authorizing purchase of a 2025 Ford Explorer for the Administration Department (not to exceed $40,043) passed after debate by a 3–2 roll-call vote, with the committee split on whether to wait for an EV alternative or act now given aging pool vehicles.

Committee members said they plan to pursue reforms in purchasing policy and shared-service options next year to increase the township’s ability to obtain EV vehicles when available. Administrators said they will continue to track availability and delivery timelines during the 2025 budget process.

The committee’s immediate action allows staff to place orders consistent with approved resolutions and with standard cooperative-purchase contract terms; members retained the right to cancel orders if delivery timelines render the purchase impractical.