The Carroll City Council reviewed and approved two major projects on Monday night, totaling an estimated nearly $2.1 million. Street resurfacing is scheduled to take place throughout the city this construction season at an estimated cost of a little more than $1.04 million, plus hourly expenses. A low bid from Ten Point Construction of Denison of almost $930,000 was accepted with work beginning as soon as is practical. The second project approved is a state mandated disinfection improvement at the wastewater treatment plant. The council accepted a low bid of around $967,000 for the project which is slated to be completed by March 1, 2020. This will provide a month of leeway for testing and tweaking prior to the April 1, 2020 required completion date. The topic that drew the most questions and comments, however, was the purchase of a new vehicle for the police department. For the first time, the council was brought competitive bids that included the option of a hybrid. Police Chief, Brad Burke, explained the benefits of the 2020 Ford Interceptor Hybrid SUV.
Five vehicle options were presented from two dealers, Wittrock Motors and Champion Ford. Three of these were 2020 Ford Interceptors with the options of a 3.3 liter, V6 engine, an Ecoboost or a hybrid. The Dodge proposals were for either a V8 Hemi or a 3.6 liter V6 Durango. Burke told the council there were concerns with the Durango as there is a center console shifter where computers and equipment are installed. The council also agreed that familiarity with the cab layout for officers is important. LaVern Dirkx asked Burke about idle time.
Efficiency and reduction of the carbon footprint are enhanced as the hybrid engine shuts down when idling. The car is similar to a Prius that charges with the braking system and has an internal generator. Jerry Fleshner also pointed out there may be savings in the ability for the department to spread out their monthly oil changes to bimonthly because of the longer life-span of the oil. He also said he would like to see what the hybrid brings at trade in. Fleshner says he fears there will not be as much value at that time as with a traditional engine. Burke adds when it comes to power, the Ford Interceptor Hybrid has been tested in pursuit trials and has actually outperformed other police models with gasoline engines. The council approved the $36,962 purchase at a little more than $5,000 over the Fiscal Year 2020 budgeted amount of $31,436. The shortfall will be made up through the crime prevention and police forfeiture funds.
