During its Wednesday meeting, the Mancos town board voted to approve the purchase of two new vehicles for the Mancos Marshal’s Office.
Marshal Jason Spruell said two out of his department’s patrol vehicles are beginning to show their age in ways that make it more difficult for deputies to do their job. Earlier this year, the town budgeted $90,000 to acquire replacement vehicles. On Wednesday, the board granted Spruell’s request to buy two for $89,002.
Spruell told the town board that his office’s two Crown Victoria patrol cars, purchased in 2005, have been spending more and more time in mechanic shops lately for minor repairs. He said that takes away patrol time from his deputies, but he added he was also concerned about the aging look of the vehicles.
“They don’t look professional,” he said. “And for our employees, that’s their office.”
The town previously approved Spruell’s request to sell one of his office’s older vehicles for $13,000, and directed him to buy two new vehicles for a price not to exceed $90,000. Spruell said he received three quotes from dealerships for new, fully equipped vehicles, and he felt Morehart Murphy Auto Center in Durango gave the best value.
Spruell’s ultimate request was for two 2018 Chevy 1500 Crew Cab trucks with a three-year warranty.
Trustees commended him for finding a way to purchase the vehicles under budget.
“I want to thank your office for doing the in-depth research,” Mayor Pro Tem Fred Brooks said.
The board voted unanimously, with Michele Black absent and Cindy Simpson participating via speaker phone, to approve the purchase. Spruell thanked them, saying his office hasn’t always been able to buy brand-new vehicles. Because they are so new, he said it will probably be a few months before these ones are ready for use.
Spruell said 2018 is starting off well for his office. In addition to the new vehicles, he said he has a full staff of deputies for the first time in several years. Earlier in Wednesday’s meeting, he read aloud a Valentine’s Day card that was delivered to the Marshal’s Office by members of Mesa Trails Cowboy Church, along with a gift bag.
“Thank you for your service in a time when the dangers of being an officer are increasing,” the card said. “Your willingness and dedication is greatly appreciated.”
Other actionBefore Wednesday’s meeting, Town Administrator Heather Alvarez held a candidate orientation for the five people running for trustee positions in the April municipal election. She told them about the town’s meeting schedule, the difference between a regular meeting and a workshop, trustee wages and other town government policies.
During the meeting, the board:
Held a workshop on possible changes to the town’s utility rates and fees.Discussed possible options for repairing or replacing the town’s oldest water tank.Reviewed the 2018 work plan, which includes all the projects and capital improvements discussed during the creation of this year’s budget.