Lake County Gazette

The Waukegan Police Department has expressed its intention to purchase two 2024 GMC Terrain all-wheel drive vehicles for its Co-Responder Unit. These vehicles are typically used by social workers and officers when a police squad is not required.

Deputy Chief of Police Scott Chastain stated in the justification letter attached to the Waukegan City Council's Feb. 20 meeting agenda, "As the unit is up and running and employees hired, the immediate need for the vehicles is paramount for smooth operation of the unit."

According to the same justification letter, these vehicles will not be equipped with any emergency equipment or lighting. They are intended for non-emergency travel and would be put into use upon arrival.

In order to avoid potential delays that could push the purchase outside of grant time frames, the police department has requested a waiver of the bid process, as per information from the justification letter.

Currie Motors, a vehicle vendor engaged by the city, has offered a discounted price of $33,810 for each vehicle, amounting to a total cost of $67,620. This detail was also outlined in the justification letter attached to the Waukegan City Council's Feb. 20 meeting agenda.