In a pivotal meeting held on May 27, 2025, the Harnett County Board of Commissioners gathered to discuss a significant fleet agreement aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of the sheriff's office. The session, marked by a sense of urgency and collaboration, focused on a proposal from Enterprise Fleet Management to procure vehicles that would better serve the county's law enforcement needs.

The discussion began with a motion to approve the fleet agreement, which was met with unanimous support from the commissioners. This initiative stems from a long-standing challenge faced by various departments within the county, particularly the sheriff's office, which has struggled with aging vehicles and the financial strain of unexpected repairs. Over the years, budget cuts often forced departments to defer vehicle purchases, leading to operational disruptions when vehicles became inoperable.

Gary Deal, a key figure in the discussion, highlighted the need for a proactive approach to vehicle procurement. He explained that the county had previously set aside capital for the sheriff's department to purchase vehicles, but the process had been hampered by rising costs and delays exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The new agreement with Enterprise aims to streamline this process by allowing the county to lease vehicles, ensuring that they are equipped and ready for use upon delivery.

Devin Moore from Enterprise outlined the benefits of the proposed fleet management program, which includes a systematic approach to vehicle turnover. By placing orders in advance and coordinating with local vendors for necessary equipment, the county can significantly reduce the time vehicles spend out of service. This strategy not only promises to enhance the sheriff's office's operational readiness but also aims to be more cost-effective in the long run.

Commissioners expressed their support for the plan, acknowledging the importance of having reliable vehicles for law enforcement. They raised questions about mileage limits and equipment specifications, which were addressed by Moore, who assured them that the program would be tailored to meet the specific needs of the sheriff's office.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners recognized the potential impact of this fleet agreement on public safety and the overall efficiency of county operations. With the approval of this initiative, Harnett County is poised to take a significant step forward in ensuring that its law enforcement officers are equipped with the tools they need to serve and protect the community effectively.