Merced County Sheriff Proposes Vehicle Lease with Unified Fleet Services to Enhance Efficiency

Merced County's Board of Supervisors took a significant step towards enhancing public safety during their meeting on August 26, 2025, by approving a lease agreement with Unified Fleet Services for the sheriff's office vehicles. This decision aims to address ongoing challenges related to the county's aging fleet, which has been plagued by inefficiencies in procurement and upfitting processes.

The sheriff's office has faced difficulties with high-mileage vehicles, some exceeding 100,000 miles, and a procurement system that does not align with the timely ordering of new vehicles. The current model often results in delays of up to 15 months before new patrol cars are operational, hampering the department's ability to serve the community effectively.

The new leasing model proposed by Unified Fleet Services promises to streamline the purchasing and upfitting processes. By allowing Unified to handle vehicle orders and necessary installations, the sheriff's office anticipates a quicker turnaround for getting reliable vehicles on the road. This approach not only aims to improve efficiency but also ensures that taxpayer dollars are utilized responsibly.

Supervisor Silvera expressed strong support for the initiative, highlighting the importance of providing law enforcement with reliable equipment. He noted that while the program may incur additional costs, the benefits of efficiency and improved service delivery justify the investment. The leasing model also allows for the timely replacement of vehicles, ensuring that they retain higher resale values, which can be beneficial for future budgeting.

The board's decision reflects a commitment to enhancing public safety through better resources for law enforcement. As the sheriff's office prepares to implement this new leasing program, the focus will remain on minimizing costs to residents while maximizing the effectiveness of the fleet. The board will continue to monitor the program's progress, with the potential for further phases depending on its success.