The City of Sioux Falls, S.D., has begun a comprehensive review of fleet operations, including 900 units, which include snowplows, emergency response vehicles, Parks and Recreation equipment, and construction equipment, according to a city release.

The goal of the project is to determine the most cost-effective and efficient way to provide city fleet services. Mercury will provide the city with a recommended action plan to improve fleet operations.

"There are many ways in which internal fleet services can be utilized to get the most from each and every employee and vehicle," said Randy Owen, a Mercury senior vice president. "Our job is to find the best solutions for the City of Sioux Falls to optimize the value of its large and varied fleet."

The city is paying $70,000 for the assessment, reports the Argus Leader. The comprehensive study will include a review of seven areas:

• Fleet organizational and operational structure

• Fleet facilities and facility locations

• Vehicle utilization, preventative maintenance, and life cycle management

• Parts operations and inventories

• Fuel program and use of alternative fuels

• Use of technology to complement fleet operations

• Fleet funding, chargebacks, and cost recovery

The study is expected to conclude in March or April, allowing the city the opportunity to begin implementing any recommended changes in 2015 and budget for any additional improvements in 2016.