Middletown approves new patrol vehicles, a dump truck and three fixed license‑plate readers

Middletown Township supervisors on Feb. 5 authorized a package of equipment purchases for public safety and public works, including four patrol vehicles, one dump truck and three additional fixed license‑plate readers (LPRs) at busy intersections.

Police Chief Joseph Bartarelli told the board the department’s fleet replacement is driven by higher vehicle and upfitting costs and shortened vehicle lifespans. He said the Redevelopment Authority (RDA) casino grant will cover the majority of 2024 vehicle purchases and that the department will supplement with township capital funds as needed. The board approved purchase and upfitting of four police vehicles at a total cost of $239,854.

The board also authorized the purchase of a 2023 F600 4x4 regular cab dump truck with stainless steel dump, spreader and plow from Chapman Ford and US Municipal, for a combined total of $126,158; township staff said the RDA grant and road machinery fund will cover the purchase.

On license‑plate readers, Chief Bartarelli described the technology’s uses — locating vehicles in proximity to crimes, assisting Amber and Silver Alerts and enabling information sharing — and referenced a September 2023 Pennsylvania Superior Court ruling that described license plates as plainly visible. He said the department’s policy limits long‑term storage and restricts access to authorized personnel. The board authorized the LPR system installation at three intersections with a five‑year contract term and an annual recurring cost of $15,900; the RDA has committed funding for year one and staff intend to request RDA funding for remaining years.

All motions passed by voice vote, 5‑0. Chief Bartarelli and public works staff said operating costs for new LED lighting and vehicles are expected to be modest and that grants offset initial capital expenses.