The approved FY2022 Capital Budget includes $52,829 for the replacement of the Command Van used by the Fire Department's Battalion Chiefs. 
 
The current vehicle is a 2002 Ford E350 van. The Fleet Unit has inspected the current vehicle and has deemed it is In need of replacement, based on age and condition. If the purchase is approved, the existing van will be surplused in accordance with Village guidelines, once the replacement arrives.
 
Staff is recommending purchase of a 2023 Ford Expedition Max Van, a full size SUV with the Special Service Vehicle (SSV) package. The proposed new Command vehicle will allow safer responses in inclement weather, along with the latest safety restraint systems, and driver assistance features. This vehicle will operate as an on-scene mobile Command unit, and will be outfitted with the most current available mobile radios, laptop computer, and emergency gear/equipment. The upgrading of this vehicle and interior work space will allow the Fire Department to efficiently establish a Unified Mobile Command presence on emergency scenes.

This vehicle is priced at $56,051.08 though Sourcewell (formerly NJPA), a joint purchasing cooperative similar to NWMC that uses multiple government agencies and collaborative purchasing to obtain more competitive bid pricing. The vendor is National Auto Fleet Group of Watsonville, CA.  Staff recommends award.

The vehicle cost of $56,051.08 is $3,222.08 over budget. The Village recently transferred surplus funds to the Fleet Fund in anticipation of increased vehicle costs due to supply chain issues.  As a result, Fleet Fund reserves are available to accommodate this overage. Funds for this purchase are available in Account No. 621-9003-572.50-05 (VH9501).

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that the Village Board award the purchase of a 2023 Ford Expedition Max Van to National Auto Fleet Group of Watsonville, California, in an amount not-to-exceed $56,051.08 and authorize Staff to execute the necessary documents.