County fleet and green‑fleet staff presented a 2026 request to replace vehicles across several departments. The original request totaled about $1.58 million but administration recommended funding $680,000; the difference left roughly $900,000 in unfunded vehicle needs.

Facilities and fleet staff said the recommended funding level reflects prior cuts and constrained capital. Legislators expressed concern about retirements and safety: one noted some sheriff’s vehicles show high engine hours and frame corrosion that could remove vehicles from service. Another legislator said older vehicles have led to higher repair costs and occasional service interruptions.

Fleet staff described ongoing pilot leasing for some units (public health, DSS and some sheriff vehicles) and said they are evaluating whether leasing reduces long‑term lifecycle costs. "The hope with enterprise is that when you lease, when you go to sell the vehicle, it'll have a better resale value... We'll see whether there is actually a financial benefit to turning them over more quickly," staff said. (Fleet manager/Terry Carroll)

Questions and follow‑up: Legislators asked for a department‑by‑department list of the 21 vehicles cut from the recommended budget, prioritized by safety and criticality, and for a breakdown of how much of the funding shortfall would buy in additional leases or purchases. Staff agreed to provide the list and to share data on mileage, engine hours and repair costs to inform prioritization.

Ending: Fleet and finance staff will supply the requested vehicle list, cost comparisons of buy vs. lease for relevant vehicle types and a recommendation for re‑prioritizing purchases or leases in 2026.