Time for a new police car
Borough deliberates on what sort of vehicle to get, By Stacy Maldonado Franklin Chief of Police Joseph Kistle says it’s time for a new patrol vehicle. The department has four vehicles now: two Dodge Chargers and two Crown Victorias, for a department of 14 people. It’s standard practice in Franklin to rotate in a new car on a regular basis. The officers put about 120,000 miles on each vehicle over the course of three to four years and after that, the car is considered worn out. “The cost factor to maintain it, is not worth it,” said Kistle. The main topic of discussion at last week’s council meeting was whether to purchase a new vehicle, how much it might cost and what type of vehicle to buy. Options include a stealth vehicle such as a quick sports car that can easily give chase or a standard police car or a four-wheel drive vehicle. Borough Administrator Richard Wolak received cost estimates for all different types from Warnock Automotive Group, a dealer they must use according to state mandates. A new police car will “come in around $28,000,” Wolak said. To be exact, the cost of a regular patrol car at the state contract price begins at approximately $26,810 and with options can run as high as $28,357. The cost for an unmarked car is $1,500 less than a typical patrol vehicle. Marked or unmarked? According to the Council, an unmarked vehicle has an advantage since it isn’t easily identified as a police car. It also doesn’t have any overhead lights. But, many council members argued at the Jan. 26 meeting that there is also a potential disadvantage to unmarked cars. For instance, an unmarked car patrolling a neighborhood can give homeowners the mistaken feeling that a potential intruder is driving around. “Most townspeople don’t see it as a police car, even if it is patrolling,” said Councilman Mark Zschack. Zschack said he would like to see the savings of $1,500, but “we need a marked one,” said Councilman Gilbert Snyder. Wolak agreed. Councilman Joe Limon didn’t think “we need any additional vehicle.” When discussion turned to buying a four-wheel drive car ranging from $19,000 to more than $23,000 some council members thought i might also be used in snowy weather. However, when reached by phone the day after the discussion, Chief Kistle said that a four-wheel drive “is not used as a normal patrol vehicle (because it) doesn’t have the speed.” He added that “its not practical.” Franklin resident Joanne Tatka suggested that council take a more conservative approach and consider the price of gas for each vehicle. “With all the miles put on in just a four-mile town,” said Tatka, “at least one vehicle should be a Smart Car or a hybrid.” The group even deliberated over a PT Cruiser but the Mayor said that “it is not very versatile as a police car not helpful when heading out to patrol.” After much discussion, Borough Attorney John Ursin advised the Council put it to a vote. The decision was 7 to 1 in favor of purchasing a new vehicle, and with Zschack objecting to a four-wheel drive vehicle. Mayor Paul Crowley directed an order to be put in for a marked patrol car. In other business Lifelong Franklin resident Michael Krupa again called for the resignation of Councilman Mark Zschack, based on a personal conversation in which he said Zschack behaved in a “threatening/intimidating manner” to him.” After listening to Krupa’s comments and request, the township attorney kindly reminded him that he asked for Zschack’s resignation at the last meeting. The Council asked Krupa to take his seat. Krupa said he plans to continue to ask for Zschack’s resignation at future meetings. He said he will also take this to other elected officials. “I will ask again and again and again,” he said.
I think the people would like to see a marked car.” Mayor Paul Crowley, on what type of police car to buy