The Florida Association of Governmental Fleet Administrators (FLAGFA) hosted its spring conference to a packed crowd in Daytona Shores, Fla., last week. For the first time in the organization's history, the vendor show, hotel rooms, and member registration were completely sold out.

The conference began with keynote speaker Bill Griffiths, who was the 2015 Public Sector Manager of the Year. Attendees saw presentations from Patti Early, CAFM, and Jason Gasohol from Florida Power & Light (FPL), who discussed biodiesel, reformulated diesel fuel, and the Volkswagen settlement and what that could mean for Florida fleets. Additional sessions included technician training programs and a breakout session for future fleet managers covering American National Standards Institute (ANSI) guidance for aerial devices.

The expo floor was packed with affiliate members and two parking areas displaying everything from small GEM vehicles to compressed natural gas (CNG) garbage trucks. The conference concluded with presentations from OEMs Nissan, Toyota, FCA, General Motors, and Ford.

The conference sold out in advance, and FLAGFA members promised to bring additional members of their staff to the next event.

"I plan to bring half my up-and-comers to the next conference in September and the others next March," said CJ Thompson, fleet manager from the City of Jacksonville, Fla. Mario Guzman from the City of West Palm Beach, Fla., brought several of his staff to this conference, knowing the benefit it provides to each person. 

Sean Williams, FLAGFA president, honored Dexter Martin, retired fleet manager from the City of Gainesville,Fla., and recognized Tim Calhoun, immediate past president, for his leadership and guidance during his tenure.

FLAGFA's fall conference will be held September 20-22 in St. Pete Beach.