The MD of Bonnyville has approved a new approach to managing its light-duty vehicle fleet, a move expected to generate significant long-term savings.

Council voted to adopt a fleet leasing program through Enterprise Fleet Management, replacing the current model of purchasing vehicles through the equipment replacement program.

Projected savings

Administration told council the lease model is expected to save:

• Approximately $2.2 million over the first 10 years

• An average of $210,000 per year after that

“It was determined the MD would save roughly $2.2 million in the first 10 years of the program,” administration said.

No additional funding is required for 2026; existing capital budget allocations will be used initially before transitioning to the operating budget.

Built-in flexibility

Council members questioned what would happen if the program did not work as expected.

An Enterprise Fleet Management representative told council the agreement includes an easy exit.

“We are a 30-day notice program,” the representative said. “If it’s not working the way you’re thinking, you give us 30 days’ notice and we’re out of it.”

One councillor acknowledged some hesitation around leasing but supported the move.

“Leasing typically makes me nervous,” the councillor said. “But this sounds like it’s going to save us money, so I’m willing to give it a try.”

Council approved the program as recommended by the Committee of the Whole.