Coeur d'Alene in line for new rigs

COEUR d’ALENE — The Coeur d'Alene City Council is expected to authorize the purchase of six new police vehicles during tonight’s regular meeting.

The matter before the council, which is included in the consent agenda, is a proposal to purchase six 2026 Chevrolet Tahoes from Knudtsen Chevrolet at a cost of about $56,785 each or about $340,771 in total. 

The city’s budget for fiscal year 2026 includes $350,500 for vehicle replacement.  

“In the daily operations of our police department, fleet vehicles are more than just modes of transportation — they are essential tools that directly impact officer safety, response times and community service,” Lt. Bill Tilson Jr. said in a report prepared for the city council. 

The Coeur d’Alene Police Department routinely maintains patrol vehicles for use. Police units operate “nearly 24/7,” according to the report, “often accumulating mileage and mechanical stress at a rate far beyond standard expectations.” These vehicles move to other divisions within the department as they age and eventually move to surplus or training needs. 

The report said older vehicles lack safety features and technical upgrades that “enhance communication, navigation and situational awareness” and come standard in newer models. 

Investing in new vehicles reduces long-term maintenance costs and improves fuel efficiency, the report said, “ultimately saving taxpayer dollars.”  

“Replacing fleet vehicles is not a luxury,” Tilson said in the report. “It is a necessity rooted in responsibility. It ensures our officers are equipped with dependable, safe and efficient vehicles and support their mission to protect and serve.” 

The report recommends that the city council authorizes the police department to purchase the new vehicles. 

In 2023, the city spent about $365,470 on seven new Ford Explorers. They replaced six high-mileage rigs and one that was totaled in a collision.

The council is scheduled to meet at 6 p.m. in the Public Library Community Room.