Vernon Officials Want to Replace Aging Fleet, Streamline System

VERNON, CT — Vernon officials have introduced a plan to replace the town's aging fleet of non-police cars with more efficient models and a distribution system designed to be more streamlined.

A public hearing to hear comment on the plan has been scheduled for March 6 at 7:35 p.m. at Town Hall.

A total of 13 vehicles have been designated for retirement. They include old police vehicles that have been handed to other departments, according to a project description delivered to the town council. Most have "high mileage or recurring mechanical problems," according to a project description.

The vehicles and corresponding mileages are:

• 2003 Ford Crown Victoria, 125,657
• 2001 Ford Crown Victoria, 110,818
• 2008 Ford Crown Victoria, 119,730
• 2001 Ford Crown Victoria, 151,634
• 2003 Ford Crown Victoria, 109,007
• 2007 Ford Crown Victoria, 142,847
• 1999 Ford Crown Victoria, 80,184
• 2007 Ford Crown Victoria, 84,243
• 2007 Ford Crown Victoria, 111,076
• 2005 Ford Crown Victoria, 116,631
• 1999 Chevrolet Suburban, 128,473
• 2010 Ford E150, 136,209
• 2007 Chrysler Pacifica, 41,711 (mechanical issues)

The replacements vehicles are proposed as:

• 7 Ford Focus cars at $16,000 each
• 3 Ford Escapes at $25,000 each
• 1 Ford Transit, $30,750
• 1 Small passenger van, $27,500 (maximum)
• 1 Ford Interceptor, $28,673

The vehicles would be signed out from a centralized motor pool rather than assigned to individual departments, according to a project outline.

Photo Credit: Chris Dehnel