Oct. 2, 2009

Media contact: Chris Gleason, Community & Media Services manager, (253) 502-8222

The team that keeps Tacoma Public Utilities’ vehicles in top shape has earned recognition as one of the top 100 government fleets in the nation by Government Fleet Magazine. There are more than 38,000 government fleets in the United States.

Judges specifically called out Tacoma Public Utilities’ aggressive efforts toward plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles. The utilities have 4 PHEVs, 36 hybrid cars and 1 hybrid bucket truck.

The work group’s core values effort, which leads to “building a work environment that encourages and enables each employee to work towards full potential and embrace that environment with dedication and enthusiasm” also impressed the judges.

Tacoma Public Utilities fleet includes 800 on-road vehicles and 300 off-road vehicles, maintained at two facilities. Fleet Services has 30 employees.

The 100 Best Fleets program recognizes and rewards peak performing fleet operations in North America. Currently in its 7th year, the program identifies and encourages performance improvement within the public sector fleet industry.

The program aims to improve public fleet performance. Judging criteria include:

· Accountability

· Use of technology and information

· Collaboration

· Creativity

· Celebration

· Evidence of a high trust culture

· Performance recognition

· “Doing it right the first time”

· Quick, efficient turnaround

· Competitive pricing

· Staff development

· Resources stewardship