NEW LONDON, WI – The New London Common Council has approved the purchase of two new squad vehicles for the New London Police Department in 2026, at a total cost of $145,000.
The purchase was approved unanimously during the council’s December 16 meeting. Police Chief Josh Wilson told council members that rising vehicle costs and ongoing maintenance issues prompted the department to reevaluate its squad fleet.
Wilson explained the department plans to move away from Ford Explorer squads and transition to Chevy Tahoe vehicles, citing better warranty coverage, lower long-term maintenance costs, and stronger resale value. He also noted the change allows the city to keep the purchase local.
As part of the fleet update, the department plans to auction off its nearly 30-year-old crime scene vehicle. Another vehicle currently in use by the police department will be repurposed for the city’s fire department.
City officials say the move is intended to improve reliability, reduce long-term expenses, and ensure officers have dependable equipment moving forward.
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