The Springfield City Council is questioning the price tag of a new armored vehicle for the police department.
Police Commander Jarod Maddox said the department has used the current vehicle for 20 years and it is in poor condition.
The current budget provides for a replacement at a cost of $500,000. The request for a new vehicle received its first reading during Tuesday’s council meeting.
Alderwoman Jennifer Notariano and Alderman Roy Williams Jr. said an armored vehicle’s presence could escalate a situation, but Maddox said the vehicle is for certain situations to keep officers safe.
Police officials have said the armored vehicle is used 35 to 40 times a year and has received gunfire several times.
