Supervisors debate Enterprise fleet‑management program; staff to explore alternatives

Township finance staff presented follow-up information June 24 about a proposed Enterprise Fleet Management program and the Board discussed whether leasing township vehicles would be preferable to current procurement and resale practices.

Finance Director Caroline Partridge said staff had submitted follow-up questions to Enterprise and estimated finance and administrative fees associated with the program at about $70,000 to $100,000 per year. She described Enterprise's financing rate as the Federal Reserve three-month Treasury Bill plus 350 basis points, which she said currently equates to roughly 7.6% interest. "If staff and the Board were not happy with the resale price at the end of the 5-year recommended lease period, they could choose to keep the vehicle longer," Partridge said, and she noted the program would not include the township's larger construction vehicles.

Vice Chair Rajesh Kumbhardare said he was not in favor of joining the program, arguing that leased vehicles might not match township needs and that the township has capital planned for vehicle replacements. "There are people who specialize in procurement of vehicles," Kumbhardare said, suggesting alternative procurement options be explored. Chair Brian Dunn said he had mixed feelings and acknowledged both pros and cons, while Township Manager Pam Gural-Bear said staff will research other alternatives and present options during budget preparation.

The Board did not take a binding vote on enrollment; instead staff were directed to continue research and report back during the budget process.