During this week’s meeting, the Barton County Commission approved a request from the Sheriff’s Office to replace a portion of its patrol vehicle fleet.

Sheriff Brian Bellendir explained that the department regularly replaces vehicles due to high mileage, mechanical issues, or damage to ensure reliable and safe operations for deputies across the County.

The Sheriff’s Office identified four available vehicles through the Kansas Highway Patrol that meet current operational needs: three 2023 and one 2022 Dodge Durango Pursuit AWD units. These vehicles come equipped with lights and sirens for law enforcement use, making them a cost-effective option compared to purchasing and outfitting new vehicles.

The total cost of the four vehicles is $152,650. Sheriff Bellendir noted that no vehicles were replaced in the previous year, allowing approximately $116,000 in unused vehicle funds to be returned to the County. He asked the commission to apply those funds toward this purchase and use the Sheriff’s Office 2026 vehicle budget to cover the remaining balance, while still maintaining funding for any additional vehicle needs that may arise throughout the year.

The Commission approved the request, with Commissioner Chairman Duane Reif saying he approved of the Sheriff’s Office’s efforts to maintain a reliable fleet while making efficient use of County resources.

Sheriff Bellendir told the Great Bend Tribune that the vehicles being replaced will be included in the next auction of county surplus items.

BY ELLE HUTCHINSON, Barton County media consultant. Additional reporting by Susan Thacker, Great Bend Tribune.