County reviews private fleet-leasing options as road, broadband and sheriff vehicle needs rise

Rio Blanco County commissioners heard a detailed presentation on vehicle leasing and upfitting options for multiple county departments on Sept. 23, including proposals targeted at IT/broadband splicing, public works, the sheriff’s office and heavy equipment such as graders.

The vendor, represented by Spencer of Unified Lead Services, outlined multiple vehicle-lease packages (GMC Canyon, Toyota Tacoma, Chevy Colorado) and upfit options, and described a residual-equity resale approach to return proceeds to the county when vehicles are sold. He also presented a 6x10 splicing trailer, a passenger bus, a water truck and a new Cat grader as possible procurements.

Why it matters: Road and sheriff operations rely on vehicles that must survive rough county roads and heavy towing. Commissioners and department leaders emphasized the need for 3/4-ton (heavy-duty) pickups for long-lived durability and raised budget and lifecycle questions about lease vs. buy and upfit costs that affect long-term fleet budgets.

Key details - Vendor: Unified Lead Services (presenter identified as Spencer; colleague Jake was noted as…