BRUNSWICK, Maine — The Brunswick Police Department held a public hearing Tuesday night on the police department's request to spend $380,000 on an armored BearCat vehicle.
The department's current vehicle was made in 1979. It often breaks down because many of the parts aren't made any more, according to Brunswick Police Chief Scott Stewart. It was used eight times last year, including in the Lewiston mass shooting.
"The vehicle is attached to our special response team," Stewart told NEWS CENTER Maine. "The vehicle gets them closer to situations where there's an armed confrontation or barricade. It also gets our crisis negotiators close enough to communicate with people who don't have a cell phone.
During the public hearing, opponents argued the vehicle would further militarize Brunswick.
If approved by the council, the BearCat would be paid for using reserve funds and a possible federal grant.