Riley County commissioners approved a request from Riley County Fire District No. 1 on Nov. 6 to authorize purchase of three John Deere Gator 845M utility vehicles at a total cost of $91,928.13, to be funded by the fire district.

Emergency management staff explained the vehicles would replace older, hand‑me‑down UTVs and optionally operate with tracks for steep or muddy terrain; the machines can be reconfigured with wheels for event or fair duty. Staff said the units are on state contract and the equipment committee recommended the acquisition.

A motion to approve the purchase authorization carried after a second. No additional county general‑fund appropriation was requested; the purchase will be funded by Riley County Fire District No. 1’s available budget.