Date: September 8, 2020
Author: Cal Bryant
Location: Winton, VA
"WINTON – Separate partnerships with USDA and Enterprise Fleet Management is allowing Hertford County Local Government an opportunity to maintain a fleet of service vehicles in an affordable way.
At a recent meeting, the county’s Board of Commissioners approved a grant/loan agreement with USDA for the purchase of two new ambulances to add to the Hertford County Emergency Medical Services fleet as well as purchasing a new quick response EMS vehicle.
After listening to the proposal made by USDA Area Specialist Monica Thornton, the commissioners agreed to a financial package that includes a federal grant of at least $243,760 and a loan not to exceed $232,040.
In addition to the three new vehicles, those funds will also cover the cost of installing a generator at the Hertford County Administration building, allowing for crucial operations to continue during power outages.
Further, the Hertford County Board of Commissioners are pushing the boundaries on innovative and collaborative measures to improve the services offered to the citizens, businesses and visitors.
“The county is able to leverage finite resources through an innovative leasing program, which is allowing us to update and modernize our vehicle fleet via a public private partnership with Enterprise Fleet Management, a funding mechanism which provides for a level, predictable budgeted amount,” stated County Manager David Cotton."
Cotton said the Sheriff’s Office will be replacing nearly half of their fleet through this long term strategic partnership. The Hertford County Building Inspections Department, Utilities Department and Building & Grounds Maintenance Department are also participating in the fleet management program.
“These programs, which will ensure that we continue to meet the expectations of the community that we live and serve in, are two examples of the creative and progressive measures being implemented by the Hertford County Board of Commissioners for the betterment of our community,” Cotton said."
