Madison County sells surplus vehicle to Grantfork Fire District for $1

From left are: Deputy Sheriff Marcos Pulido, County Board Chairman Chris Slusser, Grantfork Fire Chief John Markus, Grantfok Firefighter William Essenpreis and Sheriff Jeff Connor. (Photo courtesy of Madison County)

By Tribune Staff • EDWARDSVILLE — The Madison County Sheriff’s Office sold one of its surplus vehicles to the Grantfork Fire District for $1, continuing a county practice aimed at extending the useful life of public assets while supporting local emergency services.

Madison County Sheriff Jeff Connor said the department regularly evaluates its fleet to determine when vehicles are no longer practical for patrol use.

“When that happens, we look for ways to re-purpose them so they can continue serving the public,” Connor said.

The vehicle, which had reached the end of its frontline patrol service, will now be used as the fire chief’s vehicle.

“This vehicle will help us with daily operations and response coordination,” Grantfork Fire Chief John Markus said.

Madison County Board Chair Chris Slusser said the sale reflects the county’s commitment to collaboration and fiscal responsibility.

“This is about making smart use of taxpayer-funded assets while supporting the communities that rely on us,” Slusser said.

Madison County Procurement Director Bianca Jackson said the county prioritizes keeping surplus equipment in public service when possible. She said offering vehicles to local agencies helps reduce expenses while making responsible use of county assets.

The sale to Grantfork marks the sixth sheriff’s surplus vehicle sale since November. Other agencies to receive vehicles include East Alton.

Connor said the transfer underscores a shared focus on public safety across Madison County.

“If a surplus vehicle can help another department do its job more effectively, then it’s still serving the people of Madison County,” he said.