TO: LINDA REICH, CITY MANAGER
FROM: KEVIN MENSEN, CHIEF OF POLICE
SUBJECT
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Federal Asset Forfeiture - Purchase of a Side-by-Side Vehicle.
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RECOMMENDATION
1) Establish a Federal Grant Number G4257; 2) appropriate $47,195.95 from unappropriated reserves of the Asset Forfeiture/Department of Justice Fund 120 for the purchase of a Side-by-Side vehicle; 3) increase the Asset Forfeiture revenue by $47,195.95; and 4) authorize the City Manager to execute all necessary documents on behalf of the City.
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FISCAL IMPACT
These purchases require an appropriation of expenditures and revenue in the amounts of $47,195.95 from the unappropriated reserves of the Federal Asset Forfeiture/Department of Justice Fund balance. There is sufficient fund balance for this appropriation.
CITY OF CHINO MISSION / VISION / VALUES / STRATEGIC ISSUES
The recommendation detailed above furthers the City’s values and strategic issues that serve as key pillars on which identified priorities, goals, and action plans are built, by fostering:
• Effective Technology
• Public Service Excellence through Internal and External Partnerships
• Commitment to Our Community
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Revenue: 12040002-51539-G4257 |
Expenditure: 12040002-40010-G4257 |
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BACKGROUND
For several years, the Chino Police Department has participated in federal investigations and prosecutions that have resulted in forfeitures. As a result, the City receives an equitable share of the net proceeds from these forfeitures. These funds are strictly designated for law enforcement purposes and must be used to supplement the Department's resources rather than replace them.
ISSUES/ANALYSIS
Side-by-side vehicles provide versatile capabilities that support the changing demands of law enforcement. The Chino Police Department currently uses a Honda Pioneer, purchased in 2018. However, this model is primarily intended for utility tasks, such as material transport in agricultural environment.
Advancements in side-by-side vehicle technology have led to models with significantly improved comfort and performance, including enclosed cabs with full-size doors, power windows, and HVAC systems for heating and air conditioning. These enhancements would allow officers to operate the vehicle in off-road and wash areas during adverse weather conditions while remaining clean and dry. The superior performance and comfort of these newer models would greatly increase the utility of the vehicle for the Department.
The proposed side-by-side vehicle would be deployed by the Chino Police Department's Quality-of-Life Team. This team conducts searches for homeless encampments and locates individuals in need in areas such as flood washes and freeway embankments; areas inaccessible by patrol vehicles and impractical to enter on foot. The Quality-of-Life Team connects those in need with vital resources, such as long-term rehabilitation programs and housing. The use of this vehicle would enhance their ability to locate and safely engage with the unhoused population and provide these essential services.
Additionally, this vehicle would be utilized during community engagement events, including the 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular, Corn Feed Car Show, Run 4 Russ 5K, Youth Christmas Parade and Fair, and other large-scale gatherings like concerts in the park or events at Prado Regional Park. Its unique capabilities would make it a valuable asset in serving the community effectively.
Staff obtained three competitive bids for this vehicle, with the most cost-effective quote coming from Bert’s MegaMall. They offered a fully equipped Can-Am Defender Max Limited for $37,902.63. This model features four doors, two bench seats (accommodating four officers and their equipment), power windows, a flip-up front windshield for easy communication, a large dump bed for carrying equipment, and a front bumper winch for remote-area operations. An additional cost of $9,293.32 will be required to equip the vehicle with emergency lighting from 10-8 Retrofit.
Staff requests that the City Council approve the use of asset forfeiture funds for the purchase of the Can-Am Defender Max Limited and associated equipment, totaling $47,195.95, inclusive of tax.
By investing in this vehicle, the Chino Police Department will be better equipped to locate and assist those in need to further engage with the community.
Attachment: Quotes