By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
The vehicle is just another tool when it comes to law enforcement. In March 2025, the Great Bend City Council approved four new vehicles for the Great Bend Police Department as part of the department's master vehicle replacement plan. In January, Chief of Police Steve Haulmark appeared before the council for the purchase of two more vehicles. Monday night, Haulmark sought approval for the third and final planned purchase of 2026.
"We requested quotes from both Marmie Ford and Superior Emergency Response Vehicles out of Andover," he said. "The quote from Marmie Ford is for $48,258 for a 2026 Ford F-150. Superior Emergency Vehicles also provided a quote for $13,386 for up-fitting."
SERV's bid for a similar vehicle came in at $46,363. Haulmark said the department typically uses SERV for up-fitting vehicles and has been pleased with the quality of service. Even though Marmie Ford's bid came in higher, it falls within the police department's procurement policy for buying locally. Mayor Alan Moeder asked if any equipment can be salvaged from the old police vehicle. Haulmark said some equipment is reused, but there are also other options.
"Often times, when it's feasible, we will sell the vehicle to another law enforcement agency, and we'll sell it with equipment in it," said Haulmark. "For example, last year, we sold a vehicle to Hoisington and it was still equipped. It worked out well for them and us as well."
The new Ford F-150 will replace the department's SRO vehicle, which is currently a Dodge pickup. Haulmark said the department has $75,000 in its budget allotted for the purchase, and the council voted 8-0 to approve the full purchase for $61,644.