A comprehensive review of the City’s light fleet vehicle usage has resulted in significant savings, surpassing budget targets set for 2025.
Through a deep dive into vehicle utilization led by the Fleet Management Agency, 71 underused vehicles have been identified and returned. A small number will be retained and repurposed for internal rentals – eliminating the need for more costly external vehicle rentals.
These changes will result in:
- $359,171 in ongoing annual operating savings
- $72,987 in estimated ongoing annual savings from the vehicles repurposed for internal rentals
- A one-time accounting gain of $241,104 from the sale of vehicles (with more sales pending)
In total, this initiative is projected to positively impact 2025 financial results by more than $673,262 – above the original savings goal of $500,000.
“This is another example of smart, behind-the-scenes work that delivers real value for taxpayers,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham. “By managing our resources more efficiently, we’re freeing up dollars that can be reinvested in priority services across Winnipeg.”
“This is the kind of fiscal discipline Winnipeggers expect,” said Councillor Jeff Browaty, Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Finance and Economic Development. “It shows how a thoughtful approach to reviewing assets, like underused vehicles, can lead to real, measurable savings without compromising service.”
This initiative is part of the City’s broader effort to identify cost savings and improve operations through the Budget Savings Group, which continues to evaluate opportunities across departments. Reducing fleet vehicle costs was also part of Gillingham’s 2022 election campaign platform.