KAPLAN - Faced with a fleet of aging cars that have super high mileage and maintenance costs, and a budget that allows only one new vehicle purchase a year, Kaplan Police Chief Boyd Adams knew he had to find ways to stretch his budget.

The answer to his dilemma came with him visiting a web site called Federal Surplus Property.

This site displays U.S. government surplus fleet vehicles in very good condition from the General Services Administration (GSA) Fleet Management Section. These vehicles are then offered for purchase as is, to eligible municipalities.

“Because Kaplan is not the only municipality with a limited budget,” said Adams, “you have to constantly check the site and immediately act on it if you see something that is in excellent shape and a great price.

“They acquire about 300 vehicles per year which are often sold at prices below NADA loan.”

Because of this, Adams said he recently purchased two low mileage vehicles, all with police packages, for the price of a new one.

One of three vehicles include a white 2007 Chevrolet Impala with 17,000 miles at a cost of $13,900. This unit will be used as a patrol car.

The other is a 2007 Chevrolet Impala black in color, which has 37,000 miles and cost $11,900. This car will be used as a detective unit.

Another addition will be a 2006 Ford Crown Victoria. This will be used as a detective unit and was donated by a Louisiana Sheriff’s Office.

“A new police car would cost me at least $28,000 plus another $3,800 to equip it totaling approximately $32,000 for one car,” said Adams. “I was able to get three cars for approximately $25,000.

The only additional expense will be to equip the patrol unit with additional equipment for approximately $3,800, the Chief said.

The work needed to put sirens, lights and radios on the other vehicles will be done by Kaplan Police personnel.

“We were very lucky to get these vehicles which were in excellent shape, and a reduced price.

“This program is an excellent way to maximize budget dollars.”