To: Aaron Rector, City Manager
From: Bradley G. Fortune, Chief of Police
Subject:
title
Consider a resolution approving the City of Keller’s cost participation in the purchase of a Lenco BearCat SWAT vehicle through the North Texas Regional SWAT Interlocal Agreement and authorizing payment to the City of Roanoke.
Background:
The Keller Police Department participates in the North Texas Regional SWAT team, a cooperative tactical unit formed through an interlocal agreement (Contract No. 18-180) with the cities of Roanoke, Southlake, Colleyville, and Trophy Club. This regional approach allows member agencies to share personnel, training, and specialized equipment for high-risk incident response.
The regional police chiefs recommend the acquisition of a Lenco BearCat - a purpose-built, armored vehicle specifically designed for law enforcement operations.
The City of Roanoke is coordinating the purchase on behalf of the team. Under the terms of the interlocal agreement, each member city is responsible for 20% of the cost. The City of Keller’s share is $77,373.20, and funding for this purchase was approved in the FY 2024-25 Crime Control and Prevention District (CCPD) budget in the amount of $80,469.
Specific Use & Justification:
The BearCat is a mission-critical asset designed for high-risk law enforcement operations, including active shooter responses, barricaded subjects, and hostage rescues. The purchase supports officer safety, operational efficiency, and public protection across Keller and neighboring jurisdictions.
Key features and benefits include:
• Purposely built for Law Enforcement application.
• Increased Operator/Officer Safety.
• Increased mobility and versatility for vehicle operation.
• Vehicle mounted assets allow for increased tactical options for safe resolutions.
• Ports for less-lethal (gas) deployments
• Ram for breaching capabilities for rapid emergency entry access.
• Intercom system / loud hail, for improved communications during negotiations, and crowd dispersal
• Lower vehicle deck height for expediency and rescue operations.
• Increased command presence and professional appearance.
• The shared cost allows a vehicle of this magnitude to be more affordable for each agency.
Method of Procurement:
Lenco Industries, Inc. is the sole source manufacturer and distributor of the BearCat armored vehicle in the United States. A Sole Source Letter dated October 16, 2023, confirming this status is included in the backup materials.
The vehicle is being purchased directly by the City of Roanoke, and Keller will contribute its cost share pursuant to the North Texas Regional SWAT Interlocal Agreement, which authorizes such joint expenditures for shared equipment.
Financial Impact:
The City of Keller’s share of the vehicle cost is $77,373.20, and funds are available and already approved in the FY 2024-25 CCPD budget allocation of $80,469.
Citizen Input/Board Review:
The Crime Control and Prevention District Board approved the purchase of the Lenco BearCat as part of their budget at their June 26, 2024, Board Meeting and City Council approved the Crime Control and Prevention District budget on July 17, 2024.
Alternatives:
City Council has the following alternatives:
- Approve as submitted
- Approve with changes
- Denial
Council Action:
Staff recommends City Council approve a resolution authorizing the payment of $77,373.20 to the City of Roanoke as Keller’s cost share in the purchase of a Lenco BearCat SWAT vehicle for the regional SWAT team.