City of Oak Creek

Common Council Report

Meeting Date:  May 4, 2004

Item No.:         13

Recommendation:  That the Common Council approve the purchase of a 2005 Chevrolet Crew Cab pickup truck for the Fire Department from Ewald Automotive Group in the amount of $25,682.00, as approved by Fire Department Staff.

Background:  This purchase is part of a two-piece unit of a pick-up truck and trailer that will replace two existing vehicles and be part of the replacement for a third vehicle. The vehicles being replaced are Truck 1892, a 1985 Ford F-600, car 1899, a 1995 Chevy Caprice station wagon, and car 1895, a Ford E-350 van.  The net result will be the elimination of two motorized vehicles with replacement of one multi-purpose vehicle with towing and inspection capabilities.  75% of the cost of the trailer unit is being paid for by a federal grant.

We used a State of Wisconsin purchasing program called Vendonet that allows municipalities to purchase at State contract prices.  We utilized this program for our two most recent staff vehicle purchases.  The purchasing policy allows State contract purchases in lieu of bidding on our own and this purchase is through that program.

Both Chevrolet and Ford offered vehicles that met our requirements.  In order to meet the towing requirements for the trailer, the Ford would require a diesel engine.  The Chevrolet can meet the towing requirements with a gasoline engine.  The Chevrolet was priced at approximately $3,001 lower and, because of that, we are recommending the Chevrolet.  In addition, the vehicle will be used on a regular basis for fire inspections.  Because of this stop and go operation, the mechanics are of the opinion that the gasoline engine is the better choice.

Fiscal Impact:  Sufficient funds for this purchase have been budgeted in the 2004 CIP Account #04007.

Prepared and Approved by:

Gerard R. Hammernik

Fire Chief

Fiscal Review by:

Beverly A. Buretta, CMC

City Clerk