During a special meeting Monday night, North Judson Town Council members permitted Town Marshal Kelly Fisher to proceed with the purchase of a vehicle for the Police Department.
The vehicle is for Officer Rico Simpson and the police dog that he will be picking up next month. Members approved the purchase of a black 2014 Ford Explorer, with all-wheel drive that was requested by the town marshal. Marshal Fisher explained that it’s had routine maintenance so it is in very good condition.
She said it currently has 70,254 miles and there is still a little over a year left on the warranty. She also mentioned that the dealer agreed to put brand new tires on the vehicle before they take it off the lot. The vehicle will be purchased from Asia Motors, a dealer utilized and recommended by other law enforcement agencies, according to Fisher.
The cost of the vehicle is around $15,000. Fisher reminded board members of $10,000 that the department previously set aside for the purchase of a code enforcement vehicle. She also informed them that donations in the K9 Fund are up to $12,680.
The plan moving forward is to repurpose Officer Rico Simpson’s current vehicle to use for code enforcement and part-time car. The $10,000 that was set aside, plus $5,000 from the donations will be utilized to buy the Explorer.
Fisher explained that the NJ PD already has lights, a computer and a radio for the vehicle, as well as a kennel that was donated by the Starke County Sheriff’s Department.
The only additional purchases that have to be made are a temperature sensor alarm system, a door popper, and potentially a siren box.
She said even after purchasing the additional features with donated money, approximately $6,381 will remain in the K9 Fund for future maintenance.
Marshal Fisher added that Simon’s Speed Shop volunteered to install the K9 Kennel, as well as all of the necessary attachments free of charge.
