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Politics & Government

Northfield Police Get OK to Buy 2 Squad Cars

Northfield board slices through a thick agenda that includes $12,000 to replace infested trees.

Except for a brief clash about the purchase of two new police cars, Northfield trustees motored through an extensive agenda at their monthly meeting Tuesday. 

Police Chief William Lustig asked the board for permission to purchase two 2011 Chevrolet Impalas for patrol use at $21,269 each. He also planned to sell two older cars based on their high mileage.

Trustee John Chapin was animated with concern that there would be redundancies. He motioned to table the issue, pointing to the police department’s inventory of 12 vehicles and comparing it to the usual six officers on duty during each shift. However, only six of the 12 vehicles are designated for patrol use, and the others are for special uses, including three unmarked cars for the chief, deputy chief and detective.

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After reviewing the research in their informational packet, the trustees debated whether adding two new cars and selling two old cars would be in the best interest police department.

“There is some redundancy in the system, but it ensures that the fleet is fully functioning if we need to go,” Lustig said.

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“Do you think your abilities to respond would be compromised if we did not purchase these cars?” asked trustee George Warga.

Lustig said three squad cars had broken down last winter, which significantly hamper his department’s ability to respond to calls. 

After Chapin’s failed motion to table the issue, trustees authorized the police department to buy the squad cars. Chapin voted no, and Allan Kaplan abstained.

The board approved a special use permit for Stormy Chadwicks to renovate the facility at 1735 Orchard Ln. A new restaurant—Stormy’s Tavern and Grille—is expected to open there before Labor Day.

Trustees approved the replacement of trees affected by the emerald ash borer epidemic at a cost of $12,774, which also includes a 10 percent contingency of $1,275. The cost will be covered under a $14,000 grant the village recently received for such a project, according to Village Manager Stacey Sigman.

The board also heard a presentation about ways to finance stormwater management.

Public comments about proposed revisions to the village’s liquor code was heard.

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