TO: Public Safety Committee
FROM: Christopher Botzum, Deputy Chief of Police
SUBJECT:
title
Request for Approval to Purchase a Lenco Bearcat G3 for $403,867.00
end
BACKGROUND:
The Police Department is requesting authorization to purchase a Lenco Bearcat G3 for the Special Operations Squad (SOS). SOS is currently utilizing a 20-year-old Bearcat that is on loan from ILEAS. JPD is responsible for maintaining the Bearcat and paying for the increasing cost of repairing its mechanical issues, our use of it could be rescinded by ILEAS at any point, leaving us without this crucial piece of life-saving equipment. SOS relies heavily on the Bearcat during responses to all high-risk situations, including serving high-risk warrants, responding to armed barricaded suspects, potential hostage situations, and active shooter scenarios, and supporting our Quick Reaction Force during protests and major events. A 2nd armored vehicle would decrease response time and increase officer safety throughout the City as one could be stationed centralized and the other would remain at the West Station. This will also allow SOS to respond quickly to incidents occurring within the 66-mile radius of Joliet and throughout the surrounding communities we provide services to and would also provide more ballistic protection for the SOS team and the citizens we serve.
CONCLUSION:
The cost to purchase the new Lenco Bearcat G3 will be $403,867.00. Competitive bidding is not possible for this purchase due to the unique nature and capabilities of the vehicle. The Bearcat will be funded by (Org: 22060020, Object: 557500).
In accordance with section 2-438 of the City of Joliet Code of Ordinances which states that purchases over $25,000.00 may be awarded without written specifications or bidding under certain circumstances. Three of these circumstances apply:
1. (a) Purchases that may only be practicably made from a single source.
2. (c) Purchases of equipment which, by reason of train...
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