Item No. 6
Town of Atherton
CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT – CONSENT AGENDA
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
GEORGE RODERICKS, CITY MANAGER
FROM: STEVEN D. MCCULLEY, POLICE CHIEF
DATE: APRIL 16, 2025
SUBJECT: ACCEPTANCE OF A $180,000 DONATION IN SUPPORT OF
POLICE DEPARTMENT TRAFFIC DIVISION WITH THE
PURCHASE OF THREE BMW PATROL MOTORCYCLES
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Council accept a $180,000 donation for the purchase of three BMW police patrol motorcycles.
BACKGROUND
The police department has a long history of a police motorcycle traffic safety enforcement unit which responds protectively to enforce traffic safety laws and to investigate vehicle collisions.
Traffic safety concerns are the number one resident complaint we receive on a routine basis. Currently our motorcycle traffic unit consists of a motor sergeant and two motor officer positions.
ANALYSIS
The three BMW motorcycles for replacement have exceeded their recommended service life in terms of both mileage and operational hours. Over time, these motorcycles have experienced increasing maintenance costs, reliability concerns, and diminished performance, making them less safe and efficient for patrol duties.
Key Reasons for Replacement:
Safety Concerns: As motorcycles age, wear and tear on critical components—such as braking systems, suspension, and engine performance—can lead to potential safety hazards for officers operating them at high speeds or in emergency situations.
Rising Maintenance Costs: Repairs have become more frequent and costly, diverting resources from other essential policing needs. In some cases, replacement parts for older models are harder Acceptance of Donation for Patrol Motorcycles
APRIL 16, 2025
to obtain, leading to longer downtimes.
Operational Efficiency: Reliable motorcycles are crucial for traffic enforcement, emergency response, and public safety operations. The aging fleet may not meet the department’s needs in responding quickly and effectively to incidents.
Cost-Effectiveness: Investing in new motorcycles now will reduce long-term maintenance expenses and ensure a modern, fuel-efficient fleet that serves the community effectively.
Staff were approached by a resident who wants to donate $180,000 to the Town for the express purpose of funding the purchase of the three replacement BMW police motorcycles.
FISCAL IMPACT
None.
The private funding of $180,000 will support the purchase costs of the three BMW patrol motorcycles. Ongoing costs to support motorcycles will be limited to fuel and routine maintenance costs. Those costs currently exist.
GOAL ALIGNMENT
This Report and its contents are in alignment with the following Council Policy Goals:
• Goal B - Improve Public Safety & Emergency Preparedness • Goal D – Be Forward Thinking
• Goal F – Build Community & Promote Civic Engagement
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public notification was achieved by posting the agenda, with this agenda item being listed, at least 72 hours prior to the meeting in print and electronically. Information about the project is also disseminated via the Town’s electronic News Flash and Atherton Online. There are approximately 1,200 subscribers to the Town’s electronic News Flash publications. Subscribers include residents as well as stakeholders –to include, but be not limited to, media outlets, school districts, Menlo Park Fire Protection District, service provides (water, power, and sewer), and regional elected officials.
COMMISSION/COMMITTEE FEEDBACK/REFERRAL
This item has not been before a Town Committee or Commission
ATTACHMENTS
None