The City of Ferndale, Mich. has entered into an agreement with Enterprise Fleet Management to reduce the cost of operating the city's 51 fleet vehicles. The analysis for this program shows a savings of $74,000 over a ten year implementation period.  

The initial stages of the implementation called for the sale of 10 late model Ford Crown Victorias. The sale of these vehicles netted proceeds in the amount of $35,595. This amount will be applied toward the new, fuel efficient compact sedans to further reduce the overall holding costs of the new vehicles. 

In addition to the cost savings, the fleet management program reflects Ferndale's goal of progressive environmental stewardship. For example, the program provides for replacement of older, higher carbon-producing and less fuel-efficient full-size sedans with more economical and environmentally friendly compact vehicles. This piece of the program will provide 35 to 40 percent better fuel economy with a similar reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

Other key program features include a provision to utilize Ed Schmid Ford as the delivering dealer and a variety of local service providers for maintenance. These businesses are located within the City of Ferndale, in keeping with city government's goal of supporting the local economy. 

The fleet management agreement also is consistent with Ferndale's recent decision to become certified under Sierra Club's Cool Cities program, which incorporates initiatives that help to reduce global warming.  More information about Cool Cities is available at www.coolcities.us.