FLEET Profile The Fleet Division is responsible for the acquisition, operation, and maintenance of all vehicles and grounds equipment across the Park District, with the exception of Golf Department assets. The division is staffed by four full-time mechanics, supported by the Fleet Operations Manager and an Administrative Assistant, both of whom also serve the Central Division of the Parks Department. At present, the division maintains 342 pieces of equipment, ranging from large-scale vehicles to specialized turf maintenance machinery. The fleet includes 80 pickup and dump trucks, 8 police squad vehicles, 20 construction and agricultural tractors, 19 units dedicated to athletic field and turf care, 22 ATV utility vehicles, 25 zero-turn mowers, 12 large-area mowers, 5 snow brooms, 3 woodchippers, and 3 forklifts. In addition, the division oversees 145 smaller motorized and towed assets, including snow blowers, generators, pumps, edgers, sprayers, aerators, and equipment trailers. The Fleet Division employs a proactive maintenance strategy, emphasizing weekly operator inspections and regularly scheduled service intervals. This preventive approach is essential to identifying and resolving mechanical issues before they escalate, thereby improving
equipment reliability, minimizing downtime, reducing repair expenses, and enhancing fuel efficiency. Through disciplined adherence to its maintenance program, the division extends equipment life cycles, lowers overall operating costs, and safeguards the District’s investment in its fleet. Environmental sustainability is a central priority for the Park District, reflected in the steady transition to greener fleet technologies over the past decade. The District acquired its first hybrid vehicle in 2010, followed by a plug-in electric utility vehicle in 2011, and in 2020, an all-electric zero-turn mower. Today, the fleet includes 11 hybrid vehicles, 2 plug-in electric vehicles, 2 electric zero-turn mowers, and 3 electric ATVs. These vehicles not only reduce emissions but also lower maintenance costs and lengthen service intervals due to fewer moving parts. The District has also demonstrated leadership in biodiesel adoption, operating on a 20% biodiesel blend (B20) since 2009. In 2023, the District was recognized as a member of the Illinois B20 Club, a program sponsored by the American Lung Association and the Illinois Soybean Association. By using B20 fuel, the B20 Club estimates that the District prevents the release of approximately
112 pounds of hydrocarbons and over 58,000 pounds of carbon dioxide annually. In addition, the fleet incorporates propane-fueled assets, including 4 dual-fuel vehicles, 5 propane zero-turn mowers, and 3 propane forklifts—further reducing emissions. Procurement challenges have intensified in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, global instability, and ongoing tariff-related impacts. These factors have led to limited availability, increased costs, and extended delivery timelines. In response, the Fleet Division has adopted a flexible acquisition strategy, capitalizing on opportunities when they arise and carefully evaluating each purchase to ensure cost efficiency, operational suitability, and environmental responsibility. Looking ahead, the Fleet Division remains committed to maintaining a modern, reliable, and environmentally-responsible fleet. Through diligent maintenance practices, continued investment in alternative-fuel technologies, and adaptive procurement strategies, the Park District is positioned to continue meeting operational demands while further advancing its commitment to sustainability and stewardship.
2026 BUDGET 40
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