The Pulaski County Commissioners continued discussions on purchasing a vehicle for the coroner’s office during their meeting Monday.
In a previous meeting, Pulaski County Coroner Jennifer Johns brought forth quotes for a used vehicle and a used power cot lift system for the commissioners to consider purchasing. Johns explained the department had been needing a newer vehicle and a power cot lift system for some time. She stated several individuals including herself have experienced injuries with the current power cot lift system failing while in use. The commissioners approved the purchase for a used power cot in the amount of $36,000.
A quote for a used 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV in the amount of $20,000 was put in front of the commissioners to consider during the first meeting they had discussed purchasing a vehicle for the coroner’s department. The commissioners discussed where the money could be appropriated from as well as if the vehicle brought forth is the best option for them to consider. Commission President Chuck Mellon stated he wanted to see more quotes from other dealerships for the commissioners to compare.
During the following meeting, Coroner Johns announced, after doing more research, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV was not long enough to house the power cot lift system that was purchased by the commissioners. She added the dimensions needed to fit the system is 89.5 inches.
Johns had then brought forth a quote for a 2021 Chrysler Pacifica in the amount of $31,329 with 57,000 miles on it. A second quote in the amount of $14,000 for a 2013 GMC Yukon with 161,000 miles was also presented to the commissioners. It was noted both vehicles were long enough to house the power cot. The commissioners then decided to have Coroner Johns take the current vehicle in use to the dealership to see what the trade-in value would be for the 2013 GMC Yukon.
During their meeting Monday, Johns announced, the used power cot lift system the commissioners purchased, will actually be brand new. She added the company informed her, they had inadvertently ordered an extra power cot and that they are unable to put the extra cot up for sale as a new one. Johns said, the county will in now be receiving a new power cot at a used price. She went on to say she is still searching for the most appropriate vehicle for the new power cot lift system. No new information was given on the trade-in value for the 2013 GMC Yukon.
