News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
The Cookeville Police Department ordering eight new patrol cars at a price tag of some $250,000.
“We generally try to surplus our [vehicles] around the 100,000 mile mark,” Evans said. “The Sheriff’s Department and THP will probably get a little more mileage out of their because they’re on longer stretches of highway at higher speeds. When you drive around in circles at 30 miles an hour, the mileage kinda takes its toll on the vehicle itself.”
Evans said vehicles last longer because officers keep them until new ones are issued. He said officers take them home and are meticulous with upkeep. Patrol cars have a life of eight to ten years.
“When you got an officer that it’s his vehicle, he takes ownership of that vehicle,” Evans said. “He’s responsible, he’s accountable to it. Of course we inspect those vehicles on a regular basis, not just their maintenance but supervisory inspections. That’s equipment and the vehicle itself.”
City Council approved the order Thursday night. Evans said he wanted to quickly place the order, which also includes two administrative sedans, early in the new fiscal year. Evans said the city has not yet received all the cars ordered last year. A supplier caused a problem with the 2019 order.
Evans said the police department has been able to get by during the last 12 months, using parts from car to fix another. He said the department is also a few officers short.
