Harnett County officials are taking significant steps to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of their fleet management, particularly focusing on the sheriff's vehicles. During the Board of Commissioners Work Session on May 27, 2025, discussions centered on a comprehensive analysis of vehicle costs, which includes acquisition, maintenance, fuel, and resale values. This analysis aims to identify the most cost-effective strategies for managing the county's fleet over time.

Key findings from the analysis suggest that the optimal holding period for sheriff's vehicles is approximately five years. This timeframe balances the need to minimize operational costs while maximizing resale value. Currently, many vehicles in the county's fleet are held for an average of 17 years, leading to increased maintenance costs and diminished resale equity. By transitioning to a more structured replacement schedule, officials anticipate reducing overall expenses and improving the fleet's reliability.

The county is collaborating with Sourcewell, a cooperative purchasing organization, to streamline the procurement of fleet management services. This partnership allows Harnett County to leverage established contracts and best practices from other municipalities, ensuring a more efficient and cost-effective approach to fleet management.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted the potential for leasing vehicles as a viable option. Unlike traditional dealership leases, the proposed open-ended equity lease offers flexibility in mileage and maintenance, allowing the county to better manage its fleet without incurring penalties for excess wear or mileage. This model is designed to optimize cash flow and reinvestment into newer vehicles, further enhancing operational efficiency.

The discussions also touched on the possibility of allowing county employees and citizens to purchase vehicles once they are retired from the fleet. This option could provide additional value to the community while ensuring that the county maximizes its return on investment through strategic vehicle sales.

As Harnett County moves forward with these initiatives, officials are optimistic about the positive impact on public safety and operational costs. The focus on a sustainable fleet plan is expected to not only improve the performance of the sheriff's office vehicles but also set a precedent for managing other county vehicles in the future.