AMERICAN PUBLIC WORKS ASSOCIATION • SEPTEMBER 2012 • www.apwa.net
Elizabeth Treadway takes the helm of APWA The All-New APWA Members’ Library More than 350 recorded Public Works Education Sessions Hundreds of articles, publications, videos, and more
All at your fingertips, 24/7/365
www.apwa.net/memberslibrary September 2012
Vol. 79, No. 9
The APWA Reporter, the official magazine of the American Public Works Association, covers all facets of public works for APWA members including industry news, legislative actions, management issues and emerging technologies. FLEET SERVICES ISSUE INSIDE APWA 2 President’s Message 8 Technical Committee News 9 Recognize Your Leaders 10 The mentors of the APWA Donald C. Stone Center 12 Celebrating National Public Works Week 2012 with Southern Charm 16 City of San Antonio Disability Access Office 18 Employee Recognition 20 Fleet Services Committee announces new replacement planning publication 30 22 CPFP Campbell named Fleet Manager of the Year
COLUMNS
6 Washington Insight 24 The Great 8 28 Global Solutions in Public Works 58 Ask Ann
FEATURES
34 34 City of Ames, Iowa: Police cars replaced by need, not by time or miles 38 Road map to fleet success 42 How to reach out to the media 44 Fleet consolidation 48 Purchasing and installing publicly-accessible electric vehicle charging stations 52 Tool policies for employees 54 Six purchasing tips for fleet professionals 56 Trucking USA
WORKZONE
38 56 WorkZone: Your Connection to Public Works Careers
MARKETPLACE 60 Products in the News 65 Professional Directory
CALENDARS
5 Education Calendar 68 World of Public Works Calendar 68 49 Index of Advertisers
September 2012 APWA Reporter 1 Our profession has stepped up
Elizabeth Treadway, PWLF APWA President
Editor’s Note: As has become tradition, 2009-11), and most recently co-chaired each new APWA President is interviewed the Certification and Professional by the APWA Reporter at the beginning Development Group. Treadway was of each presidential term. In this manner, named one of APWA’s Top Ten Public Official Magazine of the presidential plans are laid out, hopes Works Leaders of the Year in 1997. American Public Works Association revealed and observations noted. She has been a member of the Board PUBLISHER American Public Works Association of Directors since 2007 as Director 2345 Grand Blvd., Suite #700 First, some background on President of Region III and for the past year as Kansas City, MO 64108-2625 Elizabeth Treadway, PWLF, who serves (800) 848-APWA (Member Services Hotline) President-Elect. (816) 472-6100 (Kansas City metro area) as Principal with AMEC Environment FAX (816) 595-5330 & Infrastructure, Inc., Johnson City, How did you get involved in e-mail: [email protected] Website: www.apwa.net Tenn., and has been with the firm for 13 public works? My first introduction EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR years. Her responsibilities with AMEC to public works as a career was Peter B. King include leading the water resource practice with the City of Greensboro, EDITOR and working with officials from many North Carolina. I came into the R. Kevin Clark locations on solving water resource organization as a Transportation GRAPHIC DESIGNER Abbey Russell issues. Prior to joining AMEC, Treadway Planner and worked principally in the area of multimodal planning ADVERTISING SALES worked for the City of Greensboro, N.C., Kristen Creel R. Kevin Clark for 16 years in public works, joining the and implementation of our public Amanda Daniel Kansas City Liaison department in 1983 as a Transportation transit ride-share programs. From (800) 800-0341 (816) 595-5230 Planner. After being promoted to there, I was introduced to the other APWA WASHINGTON OFFICE elements within public works and was 1275 K Street NW, Suite 750 Environmental Services Director, she Washington, D.C. 20005-4083 was responsible for the delivery of encouraged by a number of mentors (202) 408-9541 FAX (202) 408-9542 solid waste collection and disposal, to expand my knowledge base and Disclaimer: The American Public Works Association recycling, stormwater management, horizons. As a result, I moved up assumes no responsibility for statements and/or opinions advanced by either editorial or advertis- fleet management, hazardous waste through promotion to take over the ing contributors to this issue. APWA reserves the management, and household hazardous Environmental Services Department. right to refuse to publish and to edit manuscripts to conform to the APWA Reporter standards. waste collection and disposal. Publisher’s Notice: The APWA Reporter, September What do you see as the critical 2012, Vol. 79, No. 9 (ISSN 0092-4873; Publications Treadway has been actively involved in issues today for public works Agreement No. 41450540). The APWA Reporter is published monthly by the American Public Works APWA at both the chapter and national professionals? There are several, Association, 2345 Grand Boulevard, Suite 700, levels. In addition to having been North but right at the top is the continuing Kansas City, MO 64108-2625. Subscription rate is $174 for nonmembers and $25 for chapter- Carolina Chapter President, she has challenge of dealing with the sponsored students. Periodicals postage paid at been the chapter’s committee chair economic crisis that started with the Kansas City, MO and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the APWA for the Administrative, Audit, Budget, deep recession of 2008. It stretches Reporter, 2345 Grand Boulevard, #700, Kansas Education and Training, Nominating, not only our financial resources, City, MO 64108-2625. Canada returns to: P.O. Box 2600, Mississauga, ON L4T 0A8. State Government Affairs, and PACE but requires us to be creative, to be Reprints and Permissions: Information is available Committees. At the national level, she adaptive, and to be able to continue at www.apwa.net/Publications/Reporter/guidelines. has served on many committees and to provide top-quality service to our asp. task force groups including the Water communities. And really, to be able © 2012 by American Public Works Association Resources Management Committee as a profession to take on innovation Address Change? (1995-98; Chair, 1996-97), Government efficiency measures so that our To alert us of a change to your membership record, contact an APWA Membership Specialist at Affairs Committee (1998-2000), citizens don’t see a difference in their (800) 848-APWA or [email protected]. Congress Planning Committee (2000- level of service. Truly, our profession The APWA Reporter is printed by Royle Printing, 01), Membership Committee (Chair, has stepped up and needs to continue Sun Prairie, Wisconsin.
2 APWA Reporter September 2012 to step up to ensure that our role is several. First of all, to ensure that we We want to absolutely be sure that supported and that our communities continue to invest in the professional our chapters remain financially and are receiving what they need from us. development of our members and technically healthy, and that we’re member agencies. The strides that delivering good value to our members It’s also a challenge to our we made over the past several years through them. professionals to recognize that we in education of our public works are not simply one community or professionals will continue to offer The third is that I want to be sure I one state or one nation dealing with us opportunities to build on new and represent the body of membership of these issues, and that we have a lot expanded initiatives in professional APWA and our profession effectively to learn and gain from others across development. I want to make sure that as an advocate on their behalf. the globe. We must continue to be we continue to mature that effort. open to new ideas and practices that What are some of the highlights come out of other cultures that have And, in concert, my commitment is of your involvement with faced significant hardships and unique to ensure that our chapters remain APWA? My journey with APWA situations and faced those effectively. strong and capable of serving their began immediately upon my We’re a continuous learning group and members. Chapters are the strength employment with the City. We I really hope that we will always be. of the Association and the point of were an agency member and I was delivery of support and services to our immediately added to the agency What will be your priorities membership. Our members recognize roster. I was encouraged very as APWA President? There are and relate to their own chapters. strongly to get involved in the North
“The road to sustainability runs through the world’s towns and cities. By building sustainable towns and cities, you will build global sustainability.”
– United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon appealing to mayors to further intensify their work beyond the 2012 Rio+20 Earth Summit
AMERICAN PUBLIC WORKS ASSOCIATION Mission Statement: The American Public Works Association serves its members by promoting professional excellence and public awareness through education, advocacy and the exchange of knowledge.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS ADVISORY COUNCIL
PRESIDENT DIRECTOR, REGION IV DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE, ENGI - Elizabeth Treadway, PWLF Tommy J. Brown NEERING & TECHNOLOGY (Past APWA Presidents) Principal, Water Resources Superintendent of Fleet Services David L. Lawry, P.E. Robert Albee Robert Miller Executive Director AMEC Environment & City of La Grange, GA Director of Village Operations Roger K. Brown Judith M. Mueller Peter B. King Village of Wauconda, IL Infrastructure, Inc. George Crombie Ronald L. Norris Johnson City, TN DIRECTOR, REGION V Linda Petelka, B.Sc., PWLF DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE, Nick W. Diakiw Michael R. Pender Executive Director ENVIRONMENTAL Emeritus PRESIDENT-ELECT Manager, Wastewater Program Robert C. Esterbrooks Richard L. Ridings Edward A. (Ed) Gottko, P.E. (ret.), Planning MANAGEMENT Robert D. Bugher Jerry M. Fay John J. Roark PWLF The Regional Municipality of William E. (Bill) Spearman, III, P.E. Vice President Adjunct Professor Peel, ON Bob Freudenthal Harold E. Smith Editorial Advisory Board Woolpert, Inc. New Jersey Institute of Technology Larry W. Frevert June Rosentreter Spence Gordon R. Garner Newark, NJ DIRECTOR, REGION VI Columbia, SC Larry Stevens, P.E., PWLF Herbert A. Goetsch Noel C. Thompson Neil S. Grigg PAST PRESIDENT Project Director DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE, FLEET & Ken Haag Tom Trice Susan M. Hann FACILITIES MANAGEMENT Diane Linderman, P.E., PWLF HR Green, Inc. Brian R. Usher, PWLF Erwin F. Hensch William A. Verkest Stephen J. O’Neill Director, Urban Infrastructure & Johnston, IA Director of Public Works Ronald W. Jensen Win Westfall Kyle E. Schilling Development Services City of Largo, FL Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc. DIRECTOR, REGION VII Dwayne Kalynchuk Carl D. Wills Jimmy B. Foster, P.E., PWLF Richmond, VA DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE, LEADER- Larry T. Koehle Retired SHIP AND MANAGEMENT Diane Linderman FPO DIRECTOR, REGION I Plano, TX Cora Jackson-Fossett, PWLF Richard F. (Rick) Stinson, PWLF Martin J. Manning DIRECTOR, REGION VIII Public Information Director II Director of Public Works Department of Public Works James J. McDonough Town of Wakefield, MA Ronald J. Calkins, P.E., PWLF Director of Public Works (retired) City of Los Angeles, CA DIRECTOR, REGION II City of Ventura, CA DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE, FPO FPO Harry L. Weed, II, PWLF TRANSPORTATION DIRECTOR, REGION IX Superintendent of Public Works Susan M. (Sue) Hann, P.E., AICP, Jill M. Marilley, P.E., MPA, PWLF Village of Rockville Centre, NY ICMA-CM Senior Project Manager City Manager DIRECTOR, REGION III HDR, Inc. Follow us on Twitter City of Palm Bay, FL Like us on Facebook William “Bo” Mills, PWLF Shoreline, WA @apwatweets Director of Public Services City of Germantown, TN
2 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 3 Carolina Chapter and to participate What are some of the highlights A third thing is that I taught my as an active volunteer, not simply from your years in Greensboro? management team to back each to attend meetings but to step up There are some things that we other up. I did my best to take down and take a leadership role. That accomplished with the various the silos, even though in public was supported throughout my time divisions that I was responsible for works you have such an interesting both with the City of Greensboro that I take a lot of pride in. One is collection of operations that may and with my current employer. It the full automation of our solid waste seem to have little in common—solid is personally rewarding to serve my collection operation. It allowed us waste, fleet services, stormwater fellow members, providing leadership, to do several things, not the least management, landfill operation encouragement, mentorship and of which was to provide to our and so forth. I had my management friendship. employees an opportunity for long- team work together so that they term employment as professionals could really share and reinforce each Recognition as a Top Ten Public in our solid waste operation. We got other, assisting in strengthening our Works Leader is a key highlight of my our employees off the back of a truck leadership capabilities regardless of involvement with the Association. and reclassified as heavy equipment their individual role, whether it was I know that the accomplishments operators, and that really gave the Fleet Manager, the Stormwater recognized with that award are not folks a sense that they could have a Manager, or the Solid Waste Manager. only mine but honor the talent and thirty-year career in the solid waste They learned about each other’s commitment of the team I worked business and would be using high-tech business and became a supportive unit with as Environmental Services solutions and equipment. It changed that helped manage the department. Director for Greensboro. This year the stature, I think, of the individuals’ That’s a great legacy to leave behind. I have been able to present the role in community service and Top Ten award to others and it is a expanded their self-confidence and What is the greatest benefit you special experience to recognize these respect for what they did each day. In see in being a member of APWA? outstanding recipients. addition, automation increased our Wow, there are so many. It starts with ability to provide excellent service to the resources that the Association Tell us about your work with our citizens at a very efficient cost. provides to the individual. There is a AMEC Environment and network of like-minded professionals Infrastructure. I serve as our global A second thing that is a highlight who are just ready to give, to share leader for our Water Management for me is that we were able to put in ideas, to be supportive. We are a practice. It relates very closely to place a stormwater user fee, to place sharing organization, and there isn’t a work that APWA does on behalf of our stormwater operation on the problem out there that you can’t find the profession. My commitment and same financial basis as our water and someone to help you work through responsibility to my peers is to support sewer operation. And in turn, that and work toward an effective solution. and improve our technical skills, provided our engineers and scientists It’s just a great family of professionals to share knowledge internally, to the opportunity to stop the flooding that really do embrace the challenges support their individual development, in various areas of the city and that we face and are ready to step to support the practice of water contribute to revitalizing parts of our up and help. And it’s a great place management, and to bring the best community. We had the resources to to find answers and support and value to our clients. I personally invest in changes within our drainage camaraderie. We may overwork the consult with local government in system, and that was very powerful. word “networking,” but it really is North America on issues of water It’s a terrific legacy to establish the an important fabric of professionals management, finance, operational long-term viability of our drainage that can be so supportive when you’re excellence, permit compliance and system as a critical asset for the looking for solutions and ideas and negotiation, and organizational community. support. management.
“We all live with the objective of being happy; our lives are all different and yet the same.”
– Anne Frank (1929-1945), Holocaust victim and famous diarist
4 APWA Reporter September 2012 For more information about these programs or to register online, visit www.apwa.net/Education. Program information will be updated as it becomes available. Questions? Call the Professional Development Department at 1-800-848-APWA.
2012
September 13 Trees & Municipal Infrastructure - Creating a Sustainable Alliance
EDUCATION AT YOUR DESKTOP
October 18 Utilizing an Incident Command System for Public Works
EDUCATION AT YOUR DESKTOP
If you have expertise that you would like to share, please use the online Call for Presentations form to describe your expertise and perspective on the topic. www.apwa.net/callforpresentations/
= Click, Listen, & Learn program = Live Workshop
EDUCATION AT YOUR DESKTOP
4 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 5 APWA Past President Linderman represents APWA at MAP-21 bill signing
Jim Fahey Director of Government and Public Affairs American Public Works Association Washington, D.C.
PWA Past President Diane had been working to pass legislation. of temporary funding extensions and Linderman joined more With his signature, the President ensuring stable, predictable funding than 200 dignitaries and concluded a nearly three-year effort for the next two years. In addition, transportation leaders at to reauthorize federal highway, it contains a number of provisions the White House when President transit and safety programs. He aimed at expediting project delivery Obama signed into law the new wasted no time thanking the two to help save money and build two-year, $105 billion federal surface Senate and House members who projects more efficiently. Project transportation authorization, MAP- led the reauthorization effort in delivery reform was a key element of 21, in July. Congress. “I want to recognize APWA’s reauthorization priorities. Senator Boxer and Congressman Members of Congress, representatives Mica, whose leadership made this For APWA, enactment of a from the U.S. Department of bill a reality,” the President said. transportation reauthorization bill Transportation, and officials Senator Boxer of California chaired had been a priority long before MAP- representing state and local the Environment and Public 21 was introduced as legislation. governments, the business Works Committee, the Senate’s APWA’s SAFETEA-LU Reauthorization community, industry, unions and lead committee on transportation Task Force, Transportation other stakeholders attended the authorization. Rep. Mica of Florida Committee, and Government historic event. “It was an honor to chaired the Transportation and Affairs Committee worked together represent APWA and witness the Infrastructure Committee, the signing of MAP-21,” said Linderman, lead committee in the House of who was APWA President at the time Representatives. of the bill signing. “Many dedicated APWA members contributed The President kept his remarks brief countless hours to helping shape the and to the point. He emphasized the new law.” need for a new transportation bill and its job-generating importance. The bill signing marked the first “There’s work to be done building time in nearly seven years that a roads and bridges and wireless major surface transportation bill had networks,” he declared. “There been enacted. MAP-21’s predecessor, are hundreds of thousands of SAFETEA-LU, was signed into law in construction workers that are ready late summer of 2005. This signing to do it.” The President maintained ceremony was perhaps one of the an economic message throughout, largest gatherings of transportation linking the legislation to jobs, dignitaries, leaders and decision- economic security and rebuilding makers assembled in one place infrastructure. He concluded by since then, a clear indication of its saying he was pleased Congress got a significance. bill done.
APWA Past President Diane Linderman The bill signing therefore was Although MAP-21 did not contain at the White House with Federal High- welcomed by just about everyone everything that everyone at the state way Administrator Victor Mendez with an interest in transportation, and local levels sought, its enactment before President Obama signed MAP- including those in Congress who was applauded for ending the series 21 into law
6 APWA Reporter September 2012 to develop the Association’s reauthorization policy prior to the expiration of SAFETEA-LU.
Throughout the process, the members of these committees, the Board of Directors, and other APWA leaders at the national and chapter levels dedicated their time to advocating APWA’s reauthorization priorities. APWA leaders met with Leaf Loader congressional leaders and staff and top officials at the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration. APWA testified at hearings and submitted testimony to congressional committees. APWA wrote letters to congressional leadership, issued legislative alerts to APWA members, and worked to advance amendments improving the legislation as the bill moved through the legislative process. From the beginning, APWA worked with many partners at the state and local levels.
MAP-21 is now the new federal transportation act. It will provide funding for federal highway, transit and safety programs through The Trackless Leaf Loader is the most advanced and efficient leaf loading machine on the market today. Leaves are picked up at curbside, mulched and blown into a truck. September 2014 at current levels Faster Pick-up, Heavier Loads and Fewer Trips with a small inflationary adjustment. Most customers claim to be 3 - 4 weeks ahead of schedule due to the ability of the It also authorizes collection of Trackless Leaf Loader to load 100,000 pounds of mulched leaves per day. current motor fuel taxes through September 30, 2016. Its policy and Mulch, Compost and Recycle As more communities ban leaf disposal or incineration and focus on diverting programs changes include reforms organic waste from landfills, the Leaf Loader provides an efficient means of creating expediting project delivery, policies mulch which can be sold or offered free of charge back to landscapers and the to improve freight movement, general public. innovative financing options, and Reduce Labour, Increase Comfort the consolidation of the number of An enclosed heated cab provides a comfortable work highway programs by about two- environment from the elements. Rain, snow or cold thirds, with a focus on the National weather does not affect the Leaf Loader’s ability to Highway System. Most of MAP-21’s pick up the leaves even if they are stuck to the asphalt. provisions take effect October 1.
Snow Blowers (Standard or Ribbon) Leaf Loader with Truck Loading Chute For more information about the new Angle Plows, V-Plows Power Angle and Pickup Sweepers transportation act, visit APWA’s MAP- Front/Rear Salt & Sand Spreaders Spraying Systems 21 Resource Center at www.apwa.net. Flail Mowers, Boom Flail Mowers Infrared Asphalt Heater & Generator Rotary Finishing Mowers Asphalt and Concrete Cold Planers Jim Fahey can be reached at (202) Specialty Mowers & Turf Equipment Line and Stencil Painting 218-6730 or [email protected]. Phone: 519.688.0370 Email: [email protected] 6 APWA Reporter September 2012 Web: www.tracklessvehicles.com Elevating the professionalism of public fleet specialists
Teresa Hon Professional Development Program Manager American Public Works Association Kansas City, Missouri
side from the annual progressive educational experiences Fleet Services Committee who can responsibilities for that lead to CEUs, certificates, and share experiences, lessons learned Reporter articles, web- the Certified Public Fleet Professional and successes. based training program (CPFP) certification. ideas, and Congress and Snow If you are interested in playing a role Conference sessions, the Fleet The Fleet Services Committee has in the development of the DCS Fleet Services Committee members have identified a structure for the Fleet Technical Specialty Career Path or undertaken a new and exciting Technical Career Path which will working with chapters to establish a project for the coming year which include three levels: Fleet Services Committee, it isn’t too will play a key role in the APWA late. Contact staff liaison Teresa Hon Donald C. Stone (DCS) Center. • Level I: Entry Level/Technician via e-mail at [email protected] or by The vision for the DCS Center, phone, (816) 545-5224. • Level II: Supervisor once mature, is that it will provide multiple career paths: • Level III: Manager The City of Seattle’s Fleet Management Division was chosen as the No. 1 fleet in the top 100 Best • Leadership & Management A solicitation of volunteers through Fleets for 2012. Congratulations to Career Path the CPFP and Fleet infoNOW Dave Seavey and all the employees Communities generated a list of • Technical Specialty Career Path of the Fleet Management Division. individuals who, using the Public Congratulations also go out to the • Professional Career Path Fleet Study Guide as a starting remainder of the Top 10 fleets—all point, are assigning skills and APWA member agencies: Now that the Leadership and responsibilities to each of the three Management Career Path is in levels. The next step will be the 2 – City of Columbus, OH place it is time to begin work on review and evaluation of content development of the Technical currently available from APWA 3 – City of Culver City, CA Specialty Career Paths. The first of and other sources, followed by those paths to be developed will development of new curriculum 4 – City & County of Denver, CO be the Fleet Technical Career Path, and training by our subject matter 5 – City of Rochester, NY which is where the Fleet Services experts. Committee comes in. These paths 6 – City of Conroe, TX will help participants grow through A second major focus for the a specific technical area with the committee in the coming months 7 – City of Mesa, AZ combined use of mentors, training will be implementation of a process 8 – City of Sacramento, CA and work projects. These paths the committee has been developing which will assist chapters that do will assist participants in honing 9 – City of Fort Worth, TX skills, considering new strategies, not currently have a Fleet Services and finding new ways of working Committee. Through staff, the Fleet 10* – City of Colorado Springs, CO through the challenges that today’s Services Committee will provide public works professionals are information on available training 10* – City of Santa Ana, CA facing. As with the Leadership & options, identify potential members *Two fleets tied for the number Management Career Path, the Fleet for the committee, and assign a 10 ranking Technical Career Path will provide mentor from an established chapter
8 APWA Reporter September 2012 Recognize Your Leaders
Submitted by: Yvonne Tindall, Works Training Officer, Region of Durham, Whitby, Ontario, and member, APWA Certified Stormwater Manager Council; Nominee: Clifford R. Curtis, Commissioner of Works, The Regional Municipality of Durham
Clifford R. Curtis, Commissioner of facility to be built in Ontario in over that currently has the Region at Works for the Regional Municipality twenty years. As a decision maker, an enviable diversion rate of 53 of Durham Works Department, has Commissioner Curtis and his team percent, with a goal to reach 70 championed numerous initiatives carefully examined a wide variety of percent diversion. The Ontario to improve infrastructure systems waste disposal options, completing a Electronic Stewardship recently across the Region. His ongoing five-year EA before the EFW process identified Durham Region as a top support of staff productivity through was ultimately chosen for Durham. 10 collector in Ontario (per tonne best practices and continuous and per capita basis) for electronic improvement initiatives such as The EFW facility will be capable of waste (e-waste)—The Region of the current Works Organizational processing post-diversion residual Durham was rated 5th overall in this Renewal Project inspires a positive waste, recovering materials and category. workplace for the more than energy, and will be sized to meet the 850 employees in the Works Region’s residual waste processing Mr. Curtis is a registered professional Department. needs. engineer in Ontario. He holds a Masters of Science Engineering As a great team builder, The Durham York Energy Centre will (Water Resources and Hydraulics) Commissioner Curtis developed use a thermal mass burn technology. and a Masters of Business a senior management group that This EFW facility will produce high- Administration. accomplishes projects using the best pressure steam, which is fed through examples of emerging technologies a turbine generator that produces in the public works sector, including electricity and/or hot water energy ORDER CUSTOM BULK the first energy-from-waste (EFW) that can be used for district heating in the future. The facility is currently EDITORIAL REPRINTS under construction with a design capacity to treat 140,000 tonnes per year of municipal solid waste. Now that you have been featured in the The EFW facility will be located in the Municipality of Clarington on APWA Reporter, why a 12-hectare parcel, north of the not leverage this Courtice Water Pollution Control opportunity to promote Plant, in The Regional Municipality of Durham. your product or service with custom reprints? Commissioner Curtis has overseen 20-plus years of rapid growth and intensification in Durham Region. Call our reprint His vision and leadership has helped see the Region through this partner at (866) period of intense development. Under his leadership, the Region 879-9144 for has implemented an award- complete details. Clifford R. Curtis winning waste reduction strategy
8 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 9 The mentors of the APWA Donald C. Stone Center
Mabel Tinjacá, Ph.D. Director of Professional Development American Public Works Association Kansas City, Missouri
his article continues the this is a service designation, each step of the way. The DCS customer conversation about the PWLF agrees to provide 40 hours support staff is available to answer APWA DCS Public Works of mentoring each year to a DCS questions, to guide and provide Leadership Fellows (PWLF) candidate—approximately 45 minutes information about the program. The from last month’s issue of the Reporter of mentoring per week. mentors and mentees have materials and focuses on the important role specially developed for them. As the mentors play in the development The program elicits leadership staff sees the need for additional of future leaders in public works. from the start support, materials are modified or Certainly, this was the vision of Other organizations use a variety of added to the library. For instance, Donald C. Stone, that leaders be of ways to match mentors with mentees. both mentors and mentees have service to others. In the DCS Center program, mentees a detailed manual, along with a select their mentors. This places the checklist that provides instructions Mentoring is becoming one of the responsibility on the mentees to find about what the first few conference most prevalent and growing strategies a match based on their interests, calls or meetings should cover. for professional development. future goals and experience. The From there, the mentor and mentee Mentoring is increasing in use mentees are asked to prepare for and collaborate to develop a Professional because it is such an effective way place the first call to their mentors. Development Plan (PDP). Progress of passing on valuable information, The program is meant to develop on the plan is documented on the discussing critical and sensitive issues leadership; thus, it is strategically mentee’s online professional journal. and, most importantly, promoting designed to prompt and elicit behavior change and professional leadership from the very start. The staff has noticed that questions maturity. Within the DCS Center, such as, “What do we do next?” mentoring will ensure that aspiring are becoming frequent; thus, a new This doesn’t mean candidates are left leaders who earn their credentials “Next Steps” manual is currently to sink or swim—candidates receive will make a difference in their underway. Additionally, Donal support and encouragement every organizations and the communities Hartman from Norwich University they serve. Participation in DCSC: Frequency, Percentage and Gender The caliber of DCS mentors is 350 305 extraordinary 300 As of July 1, there were 184 mentors 14% in the DCS program. Estimating 250 184 on the low side, these mentors 200 collectively represent 3,600 years of 9% significant public works experience. 150 86% 121 92 92 92 24% 17% 12% Of the 184 mentors, 12 are national 100 22% Past Presidents, 66 are Top Ten 91% 29 50 78% award winners, and the majority 76% 83% 88% 5% are Directors of Public Works or 95% 0 Total Mentors hold senior executive positions. Total Mentors Total Candidates Total Candidates Total Participants Total Mentors Total Candidates without with Candidates with Mentors without Mentors The PWLF mentors are dedicated Candidates to investing in the next generation Female 43 16 27 11 5 22 5 of public works leaders. Because Male 262 168 94 81 87 70 24
10 APWA Reporter September 2012 and a member of the DCS Research will be placed on a waiting list. This in professional development. We Council has developed a rubric for will allow the mentee population to believe the DCS Center will be the the capstone projects that the Public grow to meet the mentor numbers. “go to” program for aspiring leaders Works Executive (PWE) candidates As the Technical Career Paths are seeking serious professional growth are required to submit. A rubric piloted and implemented, additional and development, mentored by those is a document that describes the mentors will be added to this group who are committed to Donald C. expectations for an assignment of leaders interested in giving back. Stone’s vision of community service and lists criteria and levels of and professional excellence. performance. A rubric should Summary support student self-reflection and The unique nature of the APWA DCS Mabel Tinjacá can be reached at (816) self-assessment; it should prompt Center program will be a benchmark 595-5214 or [email protected]. conversation between the mentor and candidate regarding what is expected and whether the expectations are being met. The capstone rubric is in the final stage of development and will be ready for distribution this month. Two other rubrics are under development: Professional Portfolio Rubric and the “Project” Rubric for Level 1 Public Works Supervisor (PWS) and Level 2 Public Works Manager (PWM).
A strong and growing young program The first 96 PWLFs received their pins at Congress 2011 in Denver. Since then the program, mentors and candidates, have grown to a total of 305. The figure on page 10 shows the current participation in the DCS Center program. There are 184 mentors and 121 candidates in the three levels: 34 in PWS, 64 in PWM and 23 in PWE.
Reaching the goal of 200 mentors At Congress last month, 102 PWLFs received their pins and certificates, including 12 individuals who were accepted into the program in late July. With these most recent additions, there are now 196 leadership fellows in the mentor catalog, just four short of the goal set last year of 200.
Applications to all of the DCS Center programs are reviewed quarterly each year. Once the 200 mentor goal is met, additional PWLF applicants
10 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 11 Celebrating National Public Works Week 2012 with Southern Charm
Amanda Stirgwolt Mosquito Control Inspector Department of Public Services Georgetown County, South Carolina COMMUNITIES
t was a bright, sunny day on enthusiasm coming from the teachers stickers for all the students, he asked Wednesday, May 23, 2012 in as the students. He explained that them what their favorite piece of Georgetown, S.C., as National learning to operate the equipment equipment was. “We liked them all!” Public Works Week celebrations was just like learning anything else, they yelled out in unison. got underway for the Georgetown which is why it is so important for the County Public Services Department. students to master their learning skills On the following day, National Public To involve and educate the public while they are in school. Works Week celebrations continued about the importance of public with a Safety Olympics event held for works in the community Georgetown Lynn Barrineau, Curriculum Coach, Public Services’ employees. During the County employees brought some asked Derome to show her how to event employees learned how to use a heavy-duty equipment and parked operate the equipment; once inside fire extinguisher and drive a golf cart it on the multi-purpose field of the cab, she handled the equipment with “drunk driving” goggles. They the Brown’s Ferry Elementary like a pro. Maybe there is a job for participated in competitive events School. Students and teachers from Ms. Barrineau at the Public Works involving super soakers, nerf balls kindergarten to grade 5 gathered Division! With close supervision from and other sporting equipment that outside on the school grounds to the staff, each student was permitted taught about safe work practices. This watch as Derome Gibson, Heavy in the backhoe to test “operate” the event not only served to educate, but Equipment Operator, explained machinery. also brought a sense of camaraderie each type of equipment. He guided between employees. In truth, nothing the children through the various When asked what she learned from lets off steam like “accidentally” functions performed to maintain this event, student Aleyaiyah Coakley squirting your boss or coworker with a the county infrastructure and said “the middle of the backhoe can super soaker! demonstrated the operations of the float high up in the air and you can heavy machinery. As he maneuvered operate it with a joystick.” All the Immediately following the Safety the backhoe on the school grounds children enjoyed the demonstration Olympics the opening ceremonies you could hear the “ooh’s” and and from the look on Derome’s face for the Annual Georgetown County “ahh’s” coming from the crowd. it is obvious that he enjoyed it just Regional Backhoe Rodeo events as much. As Bill Hatoway, Public commenced with a surprise parade. After the demonstration Derome asked Works Supervisor, helped hand out The Brown’s Ferry Elementary School for questions and found just as much Georgetown County pencils and Marching Band filed in with their flags and drums along with Plantersville Elementary School students carrying signs expressing their appreciation for all that public works employees do. The entourage was welcomed by the crowd and everyone was genuinely touched by the youngsters.
Ray Funnye, Public Services Director, thanked all the students and teachers for coming out to help celebrate National Public Works Week and acknowledged the department employees for all of their hard Public Works employees show the equipment to Brown’s Ferry schoolchildren work during the year. He noted the
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importance of bringing staff and Harrison Walker, Team Player known by his peers for his willingness students together to demonstrate how Award recipient, started his career in to help other employees in the the functions of public works help to the county as an inmate guard. Due department and for volunteering for improve our community and enhance to his hard work and willingness to the difficult tasks which he performs the quality of life in Georgetown take on challenges he was promoted to the highest standard. Harrison County. He said, “In doing so, we through the ranks to heavy equipment Walker truly epitomizes the title of hope to inspire the next generation to operator on the Public Works Drainage “team player” in the Public Services follow in our footsteps into the public Crew. He was recognized for his Department. services arena.” participation on the new Pavement Management Program team where he Jerry Stafford was presented with Mr. Funnye introduced Johnny evaluated road conditions in addition the “Green Earth Award.” Jerry’s job Morant, County Council Chairman, to his day-to-day responsibilities. He is is to control the mosquito population who read the resolution by Georgetown County Council to recognize this week as “National Public Works Week” and to thank the employees for all that they do, which was reiterated by Sel Hemingway, County Administrator.
Ray Funnye called Tracy Jones, Stormwater Manager, to the podium to announce the winners of the Public Services Team Player, Green Earth and Leadership Awards. Plantersville Elementary School signs of gratitude
12 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 13 in Georgetown County which is and the Environmental Education was stiff and other local jurisdictions not an easy task. With the County’s Center, where they learned the manage to snag the top three spots of Pesticide Permit, it is necessary to importance of recycling. the event. limit chemical applications and use eco-friendly products and techniques Of course, no public services event Georgetown County employees and to reduce stormwater pollution. Jerry can be celebrated without food, and visitors all had a good time during took the lead in devising a method since we are in the South, that means this year’s festivities. Everyone was to control mosquito breeding in a healthy helping of barbeque and happy to share their knowledge and ponds and ditches which helps to greens for everyone. enthusiasm with the community in eliminate the use of pesticides. His celebration of National Public Works hard work, dedication and concern Finally, the Backhoe Rodeo Week. for the environment made him the Competition got underway. Although exemplary candidate for the “Green Georgetown County employees Amanda Stirgwolt can be reached at (843) Earth Award.” managed to do well, the competition 545-3063 or [email protected].
Leroy Davis, Public Works Area Supervisor, is this year’s winner of the Leadership Award. He demonstrates outstanding leadership skills by his consistent work ethic, cooperation, foresight, problem solving, and overall management of employees and duties. His crew functions without issues and all projects are completed on a timely basis setting the highest standards for the department. Leroy Davis sets an excellent example for all Public Services employees and truly deserves the accolades associated with the “Leadership Award” for the department.
Following the award presentations Sel Hemingway, County Administrator, unveiled the new sign for the reopening of the Georgetown County Environmental Services Nature Center. The center has been completely renovated for this event. At this venue, visitors of all ages can see live animals native to this area as well as participate in a 21-station interpretive trail that explains the natural resources and wildlife. Numerous educational and interactive programs are available for school groups including a vermin-composting worm bin and freshwater ecology lab program.
Earlier this day the students were given a tour of the new center and taught about local wildlife by naturalist Jerry Walls. The students also got a tour of the County’s landfill A thank-you letter from one of the students
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14 APWA Reporter September 2012 City of San Antonio Disability Access Office
Mike Rogers Assistant Director, Department of Public Works City of San Antonio, Texas Member, APWA Diversity Committee
he Americans with Disabilities universally-designed environment consists of consumers with disabilities, Act (ADA), arguably the single that makes it easy for all people, providers of services to people with most important piece of regardless of disability, to participate disabilities, and other interested San legislation to improve the lives fully in community life. The DAO Antonio residents. of people with disabilities, turned 22 works with other City departments to years old on July 26, 2012. The ADA review and amend city codes, policies, The DAO and DAAC have both been has changed millions of lives with and procedures to assure they are busy since 1977. These groups initially this fundamental right of all people usable to all. The DAO also oversees helped develop the City of San to enjoy access to public buildings, an interdepartmental sidewalk Antonio’s ADA Pedestrian Transition offices, meetings, facilities, programs compliance team, participates in Plan. The plan identified four major and equal employment opportunities. other jurisdictions’ access and components: planning initiatives, and trains and The City of San Antonio has been provides technical assistance to City • List of physical barriers in the forefront of working on departments and the private sector in • Outline of methods to remove disability access issues since 1977. meeting the requirements of the ADA. barriers At that time the City established The DAAC was established to work the Disability Access Office (DAO) closely with the DAO as part of San • Schedule to remove barriers and the Disability Access Advisory Antonio’s efforts to provide accessible Committee (DAAC). The DAO’s services and facilities for citizens with • Names of positions responsible for charge has been to work toward a disabilities. The advisory committee plan implementation
The listing of physical barriers was captured from the Department of Public Works regular inventory and assessment of streets, sidewalks and ramps. To outline the methods for the removal of the barriers, a sidewalk strategy document identified all sidewalk construction methods within the city. The schedule for removal of barriers was accomplished through the City’s five-year infrastructure management plan, specifically laying out the type of improvement and the year of implementation. The ADA Pedestrian Transition Plan has been the catalyst to many other initiatives within the City of San Antonio.
• The DAO is active in providing Department and citywide training on access issues and compliance.
• The development of an ADA Tourists enjoying full access of the San Antonio River Walk grievance process.
16 APWA Reporter September 2012 • The “River Walk” accessibility visual pedestrian signal in an audible plan and accessibility maps format. The Department of Public available to tourists. Works will have installed APS at 88 intersections throughout the city The DAO and the DAAC efforts have by the end of September 2012. The been robust in attempting to integrate initial APS plan was an output of the disabled individuals into the daily DAO working with the local council functions of community life. One of the blind. example of the City’s commitment to the disabled is the continued support The City of San Antonio is fully of installing Audible Pedestrian committed to making the city Signals or APS. An APS is a device that accessible to all. With the support communicates information about of the Disability Access Office and pedestrian timing in a non-visual the Disability Access Advisory format such as audible tones, verbal Committee, many plans, projects messages, and/or vibrating surfaces. and updates have been made since Changes in intersection design and 1977. The program has evolved and signalization, as well as the presence is versatile and comprehensive, and Audible Pedestrian Signal push button of quiet cars, have affected the the model and methodology are traditional street crossing techniques transferable and applicable to other • The development of an Audible used by pedestrians who are blind communities. Pedestrian Signal Plan. or visually impaired, making the pedestrian phase harder to recognize Mike Rogers can be reached at • A funding agreement with the without seeing the visual pedestrian (210) 207-7084 or Mike.Rogers@ local transit agency for bus stop signal. APS provides the same sanantonio.gov. accessibility. information that is provided by the
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16 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 17 Employee Recognition Value to your organization: “Priceless”
Allen Persons Director of Public Works Village of Plainfield, Illinois
s I think back to my first have become some of the scariest regular basis may be one of the best management class I can words in the dictionary and new terms ways to boost job satisfaction. recall being told that “people like “rightsizing” are just nauseating. are the most valuable Are we, in some unintended way, You may want to try some or all of resource within an organization.” I informing our employees that they are the following: thought…how true. Organizations just a liability on budget worksheets spend a great deal of time and energy that need to be properly managed? If Say “Thank You” – For example, to help protect the safety of their this is the message that we are sending as you are walking past “Bob” one workers, educational opportunities it is about time that we get back to the snowy morning say something are offered to encourage professional basics and dust off that Management like, “Thank you for taking time development, and a variety of 101 book that has been sitting on the away from your family last night to employee assistance programs are shelf. plow the roadways. I appreciate the commonplace these days. fact that the streets were clear for I believe that one of the ways you emergency vehicles as well as the So why do we see study after study can improve employee satisfaction general public. Nice work.” Saying that confirms employee satisfaction is to consistently practice employee “thank you” in a group setting is is at an all-time low? I guess we recognition. This should occur extremely important as well. The could blame the turbulent economic on an individual level as well as message should be positive and times that our country has recently group level. And while this may be specific. encountered. Expressions like uncomfortable for some managers, “downsizing” and “restructuring” expressing sincere gratitude on a Celebrate Milestones – If you have an employee that has served your organization for five, ten or twenty years, you should do something to recognize them for this accomplishment. I have found that while many people dread birthdays, they do like to be noticed for years
Brian Fahnstrom (right), Village Arbor- ist, celebrates his five-year anniver- Mayor Mike Collins (left) recognizes John Neef, Vehicle Maintenance Supervi- sary with Plainfield. At left is Allen sor, for his ten years of service with the presentation of a custom banner. Persons, Director of Public Works.
18 APWA Reporter September 2012 of service. No need to worry about and beyond the call of duty, respond breaking the budget—a nicely framed appropriately. For example, after one certificate and some positive public of our engineers passed a difficult comments are usually well received. course that allowed him to become Comments in the group setting a certified bridge inspector, the should always be positive. Consider management staff constructed a adding a small gift that has some unique award that you will not find meaning. Additionally, consider at any store. Be creative and have having the management staff prepare some fun. lunch for the field employees once or This “one of a kind” handmade award twice a year. This can be a great way Boast About Your Staff’s was presented to Scott Threewitt, Village Engineer, for attaining certi- to celebrate National Public Works Accomplishments – “Hey Mayor, fied bridge inspector status. Week. I am so proud of the way that the public works staff responded from residents should get posted Celebrate Accomplishments – If to the storm event. They are and copies should always be placed one of your employees passes a water really dedicated to serving our within the employee’s personnel file. certification examination or becomes community.” a certified arborist, a copy of the Allen Persons was named a 2011 certificate should be provided to the Positive News About Employees APWA Chicago Metro Chapter Top Ten city council or board of directors. Gets Posted – If you see a positive Leader of the Year. He can be reached Consider inviting the employee to news story in print or on the at (815) 436-3577 or apersons@ a board meeting for recognition. If Internet, copy it and place it on goplainfield.com. one of your employees goes above the bulletin board. Positive letters New APWA Board member Harry L. Weed II, PWLF, a member As Superintendent of Public Works members, and new superintendent of the New York Metropolitan for the Village of Rockville Centre, training; and the selection by Chapter and the Chapter Delegate, N.Y., Weed supervises the Highway APWA to attend the Third National has been appointed to the Board of Division, which handles road Conference on Strengthening the Directors as the Director of Region II. maintenance and tree-trimming; the Public Safety Response to Terrorism His appointment fills the unexpired Sewer Department, which handles and Other Hazards. term of Ed Gottko, who assumed the the pump stations, sanitary, and position of President-Elect during the storm sewers; the Sanitation, Water, Weed is a former member of APWA’s APWA International Public Works and Parks Departments; and the Emergency Management Committee Congress & Exposition in Anaheim. Central Garage. He also oversees and was also a member of the parking meter and console repairs Facilities & Grounds Committee for and maintenance, street sweeping, five years, chairing the committee for road opening permits and sidewalk two years. He is a Past President of inspection program. the New York Metropolitan Chapter, chaired the chapter’s Government Weed’s managerial accomplishments Affairs Committee in 2003, and has include presenting a class in been the Chapter Delegate since Weapons of Mass Destruction 2005. He has been a contributor Awareness to the Village Sanitation to the APWA Reporter’s annual Department staff and meter readers; Facilities & Grounds issue, penning presenting, on behalf of the New “Workplace Safety” (April 2007) and York Conference of Mayors, Public “Intergovernmental Cooperative Works Planning Committee, a Initiatives” (April 2006). Weed was program for public works schools on named one of APWA’s Top Ten Public plastic recycling, dealing with board Works Leaders of the Year in 2008.
Harry L. Weed II
18 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 19 Fleet Services Committee announces new replacement planning publication
Mary Joyce Ivers, PWLF, CPFP Fleet and Facilities Manager City of Ventura, California Member, APWA Fleet Services Committee
n any municipality, a fleet of the community, evaluate the fleet’s Fleet Services Committee has updated vehicles and equipment represents ability to meet those needs, and its Vehicle Replacement Guide by an investment of hundreds of develop a plan for replacing vehicles publishing a new book, titled Planned thousands to millions of dollars, and equipment before service delivery Fleet Replacement. The updated booklet plus the ongoing expenses for labor, is impacted. It takes into account is designed to provide public managers maintenance, and overhead. The right-sizing and right-typing the at all levels including fleet managers, responsibility of the fleet manager fleet, maximizing vehicle availability public works directors, and equipment is to provide an acceptable level of and utilization, minimizing costs operators with the basic guidelines to service to the organization and the and vehicle downtime, reducing determine when and how to replace community in the most efficient maintenance and operational costs, vital fleet equipment. It introduces and economical way possible. and providing an opportunity for financing strategies, evaluation Having a sound fleet replacement new technologies and sustainability criteria, as well as outlines ideas on plan is essential to fulfilling initiatives to be implemented. how to dispose of and achieve the that responsibility. A good fleet maximum residual value from vehicles replacement program gives the fleet To assist the fleet manager in and equipment that are selected for manager tools to assess the needs of developing such a plan, the APWA replacement.
Planned Fleet Replacement will be useful in establishing and improving vehicle replacement programs by helping to:
• establish an effective program and determine replacement criteria,
• develop budgets and plan appropriate financing,
• select units to be replaced and determine optimum disposal methods,
• provide alternatives for compliance with “green” fleet sustainability initiatives,
• develop specifications and purchase replacements.
APWA is providing the following excerpt as a “teaser” and introduction to the new publication. If you would like to purchase the updated publication after reading this material, check our online store at www.apwa. net/bookstore to make your purchase.
20 APWA Reporter September 2012 One best management practice of Before replacing a vehicle candidate While most government agencies an established fleet replacement the fleet manager must work require the lowest-priced vehicle to plan is the selection of vehicles to collaboratively with the operating be selected in a competitive bid, other be replaced. The fleet manager must department customers and ask the factors may be considered in selecting evaluate the overall right-sizing following questions during the the new replacement vehicle. Check and right-typing of the fleet before evaluation: your agency’s procurement policies. selecting the vehicles to be replaced Other financial benefits such as fuel • Does the operating department with the available replacement funds. economy, life cycle cost, improved have a continued need for the Many factors may be considered in productivity and utilization by the vehicle or equipment? determining the additional benefits department to deliver services to of a new replacement vehicle. Many • Is the fleet cost effective and right- the community may be considered fleets may have to comply with sized and right-typed correctly? to justify the selection of the replacement vehicle. “green” fleet initiatives. A sustainable • Can a vehicle be shared or can the fleet replacement program can provide motor pool be expanded? opportunities to increase the number Fleet managers may consider deferring of alternative fuel vehicles, hybrids • Can a vehicle be reassigned for replacement of a vehicle if it is in good and electric vehicles, comply with optimal utilization? working condition, the vehicle can regulatory emissions, and improve the • Can a shared construction be operated safely without excessive environmental impact of fleets, while equipment motor pool be repair and maintenance costs, or reducing greenhouse gas emissions for established? surplus value will not be negatively impacted. In a down economy, fleet the community. • Can the vehicle be retrofitted with managers may not have a choice to emission devices or repowered replace vehicles. While this may be During the evaluation of the to comply with new regulatory financially beneficial in the short replacement vehicle candidates, emissions and extend the life of term, it will have negative effects several factors must be reviewed and the vehicle? evaluated. State-of-the-art technology sooner than anticipated. However, in fleet vehicles may have an increased • Is it cost effective to refurbish an established replacement policy capital investment, but the overall life the vehicle, for example heavy provides credibility and justification cycle cost of the vehicle will be less, construction equipment? for replacement of vehicles that are such as fuel economy or improved • Can underutilized vehicles be essential and necessary for the agency reliability and durability of vehicles. deleted from the fleet? to deliver its services. It is important to consider the fuel • Can two heavy-duty trucks be economy and environment labels of The APWA publication Planned Fleet replaced with one chassis and the replacement vehicle. The label Replacement is essential for the fleet multiple service bodies with a manager’s tool kit. It contains current will compare energy use and cost for hook-lift system? fuel, hybrids or comparable electricity government and private sector “best usage, estimated fuel costs, ratings on • Will an alternative fuel, hybrid or practices” for an effective planned emissions, and access to information electric vehicle meet the needs of fleet replacement program. The fleet on how various vehicle models the operating department? manager demonstrates personal and professional credibility to the public compare on fuel economy and other • Does the proposed replacement and agency customers by managing environmental and energy factors. vehicle provide the maximum a fair and equitable fleet replacement compliance with fuel economy program. Just because a vehicle meets the and “green” fleet sustainability minimum replacement criteria, initiatives? Mary Joyce Ivers is Fleet and Facilities does not mean it has to be replaced. For best value selection, fleet managers Manager for the City of Ventura Public Other factors should be evaluated in are responsible for selecting the Works in California and chairs the determining whether the potential lowest-priced vehicle for the vehicle APWA Fleet Services Committee. She candidate vehicle should be replaced type, size and required equipment, served as the chair of the Publications or if other alternatives exist that including meeting the minimum Subcommittee that updated the manual. provide benefits to the fleet and the GHG rating that complies with the Ivers is also a member of the Donald operating department. This allows specification. Many Internet websites C. Stone Program Council. She can the fleet manager due diligence in allow fleet managers to evaluate a be reached via email at mjivers@ evaluating the overall fleet and the side-by-side comparison for potential cityofventura.net or (805) 652-4539. financial impacts. replacement vehicles to be selected.
20 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 21 CPFP Campbell named Fleet Manager of the Year
Teresa Hon Professional Development Program Manager American Public Works Association Kansas City, Missouri
ook at the list of public works phone interview, Campbell remarked, in the top 20 or designated as an Elite professionals who have attained “It is an honor to be nominated and Fleet each year since. Larry was also the Certified Public Fleet make it to the final three but it is a selected for the Fleet Environmental Professional (CPFP) designation major accomplishment to be named Leadership Award in 2009 and 2010. and you’ll find the names of several as the Government Fleet Manager of Last year he was named as one of nationally-recognized professionals— the Year.” the first 40 Sustainable All-Star one of whom was recently honored Award Winners (private and public as the 2012 Public Sector Fleet Selection of the Fleet Manager of the recipients). Manager of the Year. Larry Campbell, Year is determined by a peer group of Fleet Director for the City of Fort 16 members from across the country. Campbell credits management and Wayne, Ind., accepted his award Recognition of Fort Wayne’s fleet and staff for his success and that of Fort at the Government Fleet Expo and Larry’s leadership isn’t something new. Wayne’s fleet. He would especially Conference this past June. Campbell Fort Wayne was recognized as the like to thank his family. “As you go received his CPFP designation on Number 1 fleet in the 2006 list of the through your career there are times November 21, 2008, and currently 100 Best Fleets and the honors have that you are away from your family,” serves on APWA’s CPFP Council. In a continued with the agency appearing he said. “They make sacrifices.”
We Are The Asphalt Preservation Specialists! Campbell’s commitment to his community, agency and sustainability led him to work with Fort Wayne’s City Contractor to obtain ISO 9000 certification for their City Fleet Garage. He was the first to use the GSA specs in purchasing small vehicles preservation, compared to using state QPA bids for preservation, bidding at the local level, resulting in itit’’ss notnot aa luxury,luxury, over $3 million in savings between itit’’ss aa necessitynecessity!! 2005 and 2010. gsbgsb-88-88 sustainssustains pavementspavements!! Always one to give back to the profession, Larry serves on the APWA “Data shows that every dollar Indiana Chapter’s Board as a Director spent on preservation yields and has led their training sessions on close to a 10 to 1 return!” fleet management. He also chairs the – National Center for Pavement Preservation chapter’s Fleet Services Committee. His contributions aren’t limited to APWA and his community. Larry l AsphaltAsphalt PreservationPreservation worked with the Indiana LTAP for l ten years and still works with their l Sustainable Pavement Strategies Sustainable Pavement Strategies Board of Education, speaking on fleet l EnvironmentallyEnvironmentally SoundSound PracticesPractices green initiatives. The Greater Indiana Clean Cities Coalition claims him as a Get More Info: ((800)) 747-8567 member of their Board and President Get More Info: 800 747-8567 for the past four years. geeasphalt.net/apwa
22 APWA Reporter September 2012 Larry has given presentations on a operator safety, it is now a stepping number of topics, including: stone to the statewide snowplow roadeo, where City of Fort Wayne • Tracking costs and knowing where employees have consistently taken your costs are home top honors.
• Spec writing and awarding bids Campbell’s extensive experience using a point system includes private and public positions, responsibility for as many as seven • Fleet carbon footprint facilities and over 3,000 pieces of equipment. The introduction of • Greening your fleet to hybrid many sustainability initiatives in vehicles the City’s fleet were a direct result of his efforts. With this record of service and accomplishments, it isn’t Larry was part of a team which surprising that he was selected as the implemented a joint citywide 2012 Public Sector Fleet Manager of equipment operator contest and the Year. APWA offers our heartfelt safety training day for Fort Wayne congratulations to Larry Campbell. employees. While providing a venue for employees to compete for Teresa Hon can be reached at (816) 595- recognition as a top operator, the 5224 or [email protected]. For additional event also offers an opportunity for details on Campbell’s Fleet Manager of training in equipment unfamiliar to the Year Award, see the July/August issue Larry Campbell with his Fleet Manag- the operators. Initially developed as of Government Fleet magazine. er of the Year Award (photo provided a way to reinforce the importance of by Government Fleet magazine)
22 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 23 Integrity in Public Works
Donal F. Hartman, Jr., J.D., LL.M Program Director, College of Graduate & Continuing Studies Norwich University, Northfield, Vermont Member, APWA Leadership and Management Committee
The APWA Leadership and for services—lapses in integrity must The core principles of Management Committee has introduced be frustrating to those who know integrity are virtues, a new series of articles entitled “The they don’t have the ability to “shop such as: compassion, Great 8” which focus on leadership elsewhere.” dependability, generosity, traits and qualities. This is the eighth honesty, kindness, loyalty, series of articles contributed by the Integrity is an essential quality for maturity, objectivity, committee over the past several years. leaders of public works organizations respect, fairness, dignity, The Leadership and Management as well. Integrity is viewed—and trust and wisdom.1 Committee, working with a rightfully so—as an absolute for subcommittee composed of public works the leader. The leader doesn’t have Reasonable minds can differ on these leaders with decades of experience, has to be smarter than his colleagues, qualities. For example, many would identified a number of qualities required more talented, work harder or know add such qualities as transparency, for success as a leader of a public works more. But the leader cannot lack self-control, etc. But many of the organization. The series will explore integrity. Why? People will not above principles appear on most the following traits over the next eight follow those they don’t trust. When shortlists. Moreover, there does not months: a leader exhibits principle-centered appear to be a serious debate on the leadership, those in the organization value of these qualities. This is akin 1. Vision know there is a foundation for the to emotional intelligence—the aspect 2. Charisma leader’s decisions and actions— of our thinking processes which 3. Symbolism they will flow naturally from those create or foster the bonding process 4. Empowerment principles the leader holds dear. That with those in the organization. All 5. Intellectual Stimulation leads us to the question—are there of these qualities find their roots in 6. Integrity common principles of integrity that studies of human behavior, religion, 7. Knowledge Management define the leader as having the right philosophy, etc. They form the 8. Power of Relationships stuff? foundation for the high ground from which a leader must function. “The supreme quality for What is integrity? leadership is unquestionably One definition we often see goes How does leadership relate to integrity. Without it, no real like this: a system of principles integrity? success is possible, no matter which guides our behavior. When Leaders must possess most if not whether it is on a section gang, we are acting with integrity we do all of the above-listed qualities of integrity if they expect to enjoy a football field, in an army, what is right—even when no one is full-throated support from the or in an office.” – Dwight D. watching.1 The only problem with organization. As social beings we Eisenhower this definition is its circular nature— tend to follow those in whom we right is defined by what one thinks repose our trust to make decisions. In the public sector personal is right. That sounds too subjective. That trust is conditional, not integrity is held in high regard, and After all, history is filled with absolute. It is not automatic and the public’s expectations for integrity examples of misanthropes acting depends largely on the qualities of are likewise high. Public officials are out of a sense of their own vision of integrity shown by our leaders. expected to be selfless, thinking only what is right. At some point we have of the public good. The inescapable to identify objective criteria. fact is our customers can’t turn to Occasional lapses on the part of another public works organization leaders may not destroy trust in a
24 APWA Reporter September 2012 leader. Confidence by those in the organization in his or her ability to look at things with a sense LUBRA-SEAL of objectivity may not be lost; ALL SEASON Spreader and Conveyor Encapsulant even serious questions about the leader’s ability to see the human dimension of his or her decisions may not completely tarnish the image of leadership. But they don’t help, either. While we may even sympathize with a lapse on the part of the leader, leaders risk the loss of support and trust with continued lapses of integrity. Apply once to lubricate & seal – Easy, one step application process and your spreaders are all set for winter operations.
Where the leader has fallen short Lubricates drag chains – Helps prevent against costly drag chain in the area of integrity we have seizure or breakage all winter long. a right to expect some sort of Seals components – Creates a protective barrier against corrosive salts and chlorides. reconciliation or apology. Blindness Environmentally responsible and will not wash off. to lapses in the arena of integrity will not be forgotten or forgiven in Trusted by over 40 State Departments of Transportation. most organizations. It may not be a zero tolerance game, but there is an expectation that the leader must be NEUTRO-WASH sensitive to the impact of his or her Salt & Chloride Neutralizer lapses, and the expectation as well left behind from that the leader will at least strive to Removes white salt residue pressure washing with detergents – use act with integrity. Leadership is, in a NEUTRO‑WASH after every winter storm. sense, a social contract between the leader and those being led. Where Put a stop to corrosion and expensive repairs – either party disappoints, the other enjoy more efficient equipment that works harder, expects reconciliation or a reaching lasts longer and looks better. out to restore the contract. A leader Save thousands of dollars needs to learn to “move on” when simply by protecting the he or she makes a good faith mistake equipment you already in judgment about many issues, but have in your fleet. with a lapse in integrity the leader has some serious repair work on his or her hands.2 PROTECTION • PRESERVATION • PERFORMANCE
Like it or not, the leader is the face of the organization to the public. www.rhomar.com There are innumerable instances [email protected] 1-800-688-6221 where a leader has acted contrary to a community’s sense of integrity, Does the organization need to the ethics of the organization—the and was removed from the position exhibit integrity? connection between doing the right of leadership. While the leader may While we often look to personal thing at an individual level and an not have seriously eroded his or her integrity as a quality essential to a organization doing the right thing ability to lead, the leader lost the person’s ability to lead, we don’t in terms of the nature and mission confidence of those looking to the often examine the question of the of the organization. When we look organization for a moral quality of “integrity” of the organization. Here to the organization we tend to view leadership. is where we make the link with the moral aspects of organizational
24 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 25 lapses in integrity or ethics where they are made to suffer in terms of quality of services, costs of services, 2012 APWA Public Works Congress & Exposition or errors in service that threaten quality of life. They want and deserve Education Sessions their needs—their common good—to be the focus of our decisions and actions. In fact, that is the essence of Online APWA Congress Library the ethical code for public servants identified by the American Society of Public Administration (ASPA):
• Exercise discretionary authority to promote the public interest.
• Oppose all forms of discrimination and harassment, and promote affirmative action.
• Recognize and support the public’s right to know the public’s business.
• Involve citizens in policy decision-making.
• Exercise compassion, Recordings of most of the over 150 technical benevolence, fairness and and leadership presentations are available optimism. via the online conference library. Full Congress registrants receive FREE access! • Respond to the public in ways that are complete, clear, and easy to understand. Order today and learn from the top experts in the $ public works profession! • Assist citizens in their dealings 229 with government.
To Order: • Be prepared to make decisions Call 800-679-3646 or visit www.prolibraries.com/apwa that may not be popular.3 Daily registrants or those who cannot attend Congress may purchase library access by visiting the website above. What is the leader’s role in shaping the integrity of the organization? The leader plays a role greater behavior in the context of ethics. The These concepts share common than modeling behavior—the distinction between these concepts is ground in the area of public service leader should be a force in shaping that integrity generally applies to the in general, and public works organizational culture around individual’s sense of right and wrong, specifically. Those depending on integrity. This process describes an and ethics describes rules or a code of the services of our public works emerging field in the private and behavior created by others. Is there organizations look to their needs public sectors, with the private a real connection between integrity being addressed in ways that benefit sectors taking the lead—integrity and ethics? them. They are not supportive of management.4
26 APWA Reporter September 2012 The term flows from the experience 1 Czimbal R. & Brooks, M., aspanet.org/public/ASPA/Resources/ of many private companies which Ethics & Integrity, http://www. Code_of_Ethics/ASPA/Resources/ have been battered by conduct rising abundancecompany.com/ethics_ Code%20of%20Ethics1.aspx to a near-total collapse of integrity. integrity.htm Private sector leaders often have 4 See e.g. Petrick, J. A., Management 2 failed to appreciate the importance DMBA News Team, “Why Ethics: Integrity at Work, SAGE Pub., of integrity in terms of the impact or Leaders Need Vision, Integrity reviewed at http://www.powells. its “lack thereof” to customers and and Compassion to Succeed,” com/biblio?isbn=9780803957961 shareholders, low employee morale Diversity MBA Magazine, http:// and the damage to the reputation of diversitymbamagazine.com/ 5 Kerns, C.D., Creating and the company. They also have been why-leaders-need-vision-integrity- Sustaining an Ethical Workplace insensitive to the ways their decisions compassion-to-succeed Culture, Graziadio Business Review, have created a fertile ground for http://gbr.pepperdine.edu/2010/08/ conduct that exhibits a lack of 3 American Society for Public Creating-and-Sustaining-an-Ethical- integrity. Both causes are a result of Administration. See: http://www. Workplace-Culture/ a lack of leadership in the area of integrity—not the personal integrity of the leader, but the sensitivity of Board of Directors election results the need for integrity to be integrated into the culture of the organization. The 2012 Board of Directors election closed on August 3, 2012, at midnight. On August 7, 2012, Robert J. Miller, P.E., of the Kansas City Metro Chapter, In both instances public works serving as Head Teller, verified the results. A total of 630 ballots were cast. A leaders can learn from the private ballot for every position was not necessarily cast. At the closing of the ballot, sector. We can do more to sensitize there were 28,650 current members of APWA. Regional Directors are elected by our employees and managers to members voting in their specific region. The membership of each region varies the need for integrity and how its in number. absence erodes public support. We can take a hard look at the pressures Election results are as follows: we place on employees to meet our expectations such as saving costs, • Edward A. (Ed) Gottko, P.E. (ret.), President-Elect: 582 votes; Write-ins delivering public works services Aggregated: 12 votes faster and more efficiently, etc. As • David L. Lawry, P.E., Director-at-Large, Engineering & Technology: you may expect, training, awareness 583 votes; Write-ins Aggregated: 7 votes and talking about integrity sets the stage for changing organizational • William E. (Bill) Spearman, III, P.E., Director-at-Large, Environmental culture. But just as importantly, Management: 583 votes; Write-ins Aggregated: 3 votes when new services or changes in the delivery of services are contemplated • Cora Jackson-Fossett, Director-at-Large, Leadership and Management: 573 votes; Write-ins Aggregated: 9 votes the organization must also discuss the potential impact or lessening of • Susan M. (Sue) Hann, P.E., AICP, ICMA-CM, Director-at-Large, organizational standards of integrity Transportation: 586 votes; Write-ins Aggregated: 4 votes in light of the changes. This is not a quick-change process; culture • William (Bo) Mills, Jr., PWLF, Director of Region III: 66 votes; Write-ins develops and changes slowly. But in Aggregated: 0 votes shaping the culture of integrity in • Tommy Brown, Director of Region IV: 62 votes; Write-ins Aggregated: the organization the public works 0 votes leader can achieve significant positive change for the long term.5 • Jimmy B. Foster, P.E., PWLF, Retired, Director of Region VII: 52 votes; Write-ins Aggregated: 1 vote Donal F. Hartman can be reached at (802) 485-2767 or hartmand@ • Jill M. Marilley, P.E., Director of Region IX: 94 votes; Write-ins norwich.edu. Aggregated: 4 votes
26 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 27 Let the collaboration begin: APWA lands in Helsinki
Bill Burns, Ph.D., P.E., AICP Project Manager City of Orlando, Florida
stumbled into some dumb luck Munich Olympics as a kid—seeing then I connected to Helsinki (2.5 or perhaps it was serendipity. I this lanky-bearded Finn named Lasse hours). If you have a fondness for was perusing the APWA Central Viren glide by the other runners in German beer and wine, Lufthansa is Florida Branch Chapter newsletter the field, including the American for you, as Warsteiner beer (which earlier this year and a particular page favorite Steve Prefontaine, to win the is brewed in accordance with the caught my attention. It encouraged gold medal in the 5,000 meter race. German beer purity law of 1516) and APWA members to apply for a I remembered the Finland flags—a Riesling are served free throughout $1,000 APWA scholarship to attend stark blue Nordic cross on a white the entire flight! After arriving the International Federation of background, being exuberantly in Helsinki-Vantaa Airport and Municipal Engineers (IFME) 17th waved by the Finnish spectators. advancing the time on my watch by World Congress on Municipal seven hours, I hopped on Bus No. Engineering conference in Helsinki, I submitted my application. My 615 (4 Euros) to Central Railway Finland (June 4-11). The opportunity good luck continued when APWA’s Station, in the heart of downtown to receive a partially paid trip to a International Affairs Committee Helsinki (Finnair also runs a bus city I never thought of visiting was informed me that I had been selected between the airport and the railway enough for me to check out Helsinki to attend the IFME conference. station). From the railway station on Google Earth. I then researched Awesome! The APWA Central Florida I walked 10 minutes to the Hostel IFME and read how this organization Branch Chapter said they would Academica (62 Euros per night) integrates municipal professionals match National’s scholarship. More where I had a single room with a from around the world to learn from awesome—I was on my way! My private bath and kitchen. This place one another. Thinking about Finland, flight on Lufthansa took me from was absolutely perfect—very clean, I remembered watching the 1972 Orlando to Frankfurt (8.5 hours) and affordable, great staff and yes, older people are allowed to stay there too! In fact, I wasn’t the only conference attendee staying there. The hostel also had a sauna and one small indoor pool, but don’t think you’ll be swimming laps in it; the water was freezing—it’s there to provide a quick cool off after a hot sauna!
The theme of the Congress was stated as: “Sustainable Communities – Plan, Design, Construct and Maintain….for a better future.” The conference delegates were a mix of engineers, planners, urban designers, developers and politicians from 26 countries. The IFME is a consortium of fourteen member organizations, which includes APWA. Other Market Square (“Kauppatori” in Finnish), one of the most popular places in member organizations that had a Helsinki. The aroma of fresh Baltic Sea-grilled salmon fills the air! (photo by Bill Burns) strong presence at the conference
28 APWA Reporter September 2012 The conference kicked off with problem in Europe and the western very candid remarks from the world as a whole, as 5-10% of distinguished Keynote Speaker, many nations’ yearly budget goes Mr. Carl Haglund, one of Finland’s to meet debt obligations, therefore thirteen members of the European constraining the ability to deliver Parliament. His talk was entitled needed infrastructure improvements. “The impact of the economic crises Mr. Haglund said that rational on municipalities in Europe – which decision making by politicians is way forward?” Mr. Haglund said that necessary versus political decisions. twelve years ago the EU forecasted He said that the level of the “gray” A sea gull perched on the head of the Europe to have the best economy economy (corruption) is substantial statue of Johan Ludwig Runeberg on in the world by 2010. However, in several EU countries and puts the green at the Esplanadi (photo by when economic crises hit Europe a huge drain on the EU’s open Bill Burns) in 2008, Europe was not ready and economy efficiency. things have obviously changed. were from Finland, Estonia, United Although he said he was optimistic, After the first-day sessions, the Kingdom, Denmark, Norway, he said that demographics don’t Mayor of Helsinki held a reception Australia, Sweden, The Netherlands, favor a European comeback due for the attendees at beautiful South Africa and New Zealand. One to a burgeoning aging population Helsinki City Hall. The second-day of the main objectives of IFME is combined with low birth rates, which sessions concluded with a wine to spread best practices through will translate into fewer tax dollars party sponsored by SITO held at the dissemination of information and greater demands on government. the Helsinki Music Center. SITO and knowledge outside traditional He said that debt burden is a real department directors Tommi and national boundaries, and in today’s global world, the triennial World Call for Applicants for 2013 Jennings Randolph International Fellow- Congresses afford ideal opportunities ship Program (Mexico, Australia and Czech Republic/Slovakia) for achieving this. The objectives of IFME mesh well with APWA’s desire The APWA International Affairs Conference is being held from 11-15 to develop and support the people, Committee is pleased to announce August 2013 in Darwin, Northern agencies and organizations that plan, the call for applicants for the 2013 Territory, Australia. build, maintain and improve our Jennings Randolph International communities and contribute to a Fellowship Program. ICLEI – Mexico: ICLEI-Mexico higher and sustainable quality of life. typically holds two conferences per It is the intent of the International year—a public works and services The Congress could not have been Affairs Committee (IAC) to award conference (most commonly held held in a better city as Helsinki fellowships each year for APWA in the spring or fall) and the annual was recently named the World members to travel to countries with national conference, usually held in Design Capital of 2012—a biennial which APWA has formal international the late summer. Past conferences designation by the International partnerships with other public works have been held in such notable Council of Societies of Industrial associations. destinations such as Cancún, Ixtapa, Design. The City of Helsinki’s and Cozumel. submittal for this designation was Applications are now being accepted entitled “Open Helsinki – Embedding for 2013 for the following locations: To be eligible for 2013 fellowships, Design into Life.” The conference applications must be received at venue was Finlandia Hall, designed CZPWA/SPWA – Czech Republic– APWA headquarters by midnight on by the world renowned architect Slovakia: The Spring 2013 combined November 15, 2012. The successful Alvar Aalto and ideally located in the Czech and Slovak conference will be applicant(s) will be notified by the end heart of downtown.‐ The conference in Slovakia in April 2013 (tentative). of January 2013. addressed six major themes through The location has not been determined. The location and the final dates will To access the Jennings Randolph Fund tracts of discourse: Municipal Design be resolved in December 2012. Guidelines and the application form, and Engineering, Traffic Solutions, visit http://www.apwa.net/About/ Construction and Renovation, Energy IPWEA – Australia: The IPWEA International/ or contact Gail Clark at Solutions, Urban Planning and Asset International Public Works (202) 218-6732 or [email protected]. Management.
28 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 29 Jenni were wonderful hosts and invited me to join them and several of their colleagues afterwards for a drink. After a short walk, I settled in a comfortable chair at the idyllic outdoor Storyville Café and tasted my first Karhu beer, which is a Finland-brewed pilsner. Compared to most basic lagers, I understand Karhu employs more raw ingredients and refrains from adding filler grains of corn and rice. The beer has a strong hearty flavor, but beware, the alcohol content (5.3%) is a higher than most beers. After Wednesday’s sessions, a Gala Dinner with a marvelous three-course dinner was hosted by the conference chairperson, Mr. Jorma Vaskelainen, complete with entertainment by a magician. On Thursday, we hopped Looking north on Pohjoisesplanadi (Finnish for North Esplanade Street) (photo on the Tallink Shuttle Star cruise by Bill Burns) liner (35 Euros round trip) for a two-hour trip straight across the this grave. The most prominent population of Finland. Helsinki is on Baltic Sea to Tallinn, Estonia. In members not only received the the cusp of undergoing the largest Tallinn, we visited the famous Song best seats inside the church—glass- change to its built environment Festival Grounds where we were enclosed balcony seats (there wasn’t in its history. Mr. Kyösti Oasmaa, treated to an authentic Estonia meal any heating in the churches then) City of Helsinki Urban Projects of freshly seasoned fish, buttery directly up from the front podium— Director, who I had the opportunity potato cakes and a delicious sweet but they also were buried in the to converse with, is at the helm of kraut. Afterwards we visited the church building! this transformation. Mr. Oasmaa Medieval Old Town which had presently supervises ten major urban several churches that were about It was fortuitous timing that the IFME projects within three major harbor nine hundred years old. One of the Helsinki Sustainability conference areas, which will provide housing churches had flat gravestones in the was held just prior to APWA’s 2012 for about one hundred thousand center aisle. One of the stones noted Conference on Sustainability in people and jobs for tens of thousands the date of “1492” as the passing Public Works, held in Pittsburgh, at full buildout. The project is date of the individual. I wondered if Pennsylvania. Having grown up called “Helsinki Horizon 2030” Christopher Columbus was touching in Pittsburgh, I know firsthand (see YouTube http://www.youtube. foot in the Americas simultaneously how Pittsburgh has reinvented com/watch?v=FvMi2pJqNj4). As of with the lowering of the casket into itself from a smoky industrial town the late 1980s, much of Helsinki’s into a world-class high-tech city, shoreline was occupied by cargo complete with beautiful riverfront port industrial operations and parks, marketplaces and bicycle warehouses that were old and needed trails. Helsinki, like Pittsburgh and to be rebuilt. But instead of doing many cities around the world, has so in these valuable shoreline areas, embarked on transforming their the City worked with the private former industrial and harbor areas entities to relocate these industrial into traditional urban communities. operations to a newly-constructed The Helsinki region is home to over harbor in Vuosaari. The City of a million people, which represents Helsinki will invest 100 million On the Esplanade (photo by Bill Burns) almost one-fifth of the total Euros, most of it borrowed money,
30 APWA Reporter September 2012 in roadway, bicycle, pedestrian and Some of the must-see places in something to cover your eyes for park infrastructure within the new Helsinki are the Railway Station, sleeping in the summer months as waterfront districts. Helsinki has a the Senate Square, the Market Place, it doesn’t get semi-dark until about lot of good things going for it as it the Uspenski Cathedral and The midnight and the sun rises around was recently selected as the world’s Esplanade. The church in the rock 3:15 a.m.! The electric current in top country by Newsweek magazine or “Temppeliaukio church” is the Finland is 220-240 V/50 Hz and (http://www.thedailybeast.com/ top tourist attraction. I would also a two-pin plug system, standard newsweek/2010/08/15/interactive- recommend visiting Cafe Ursula throughout Europe, is used. Buy an infographic-of-the-worlds-best- which enjoys a serene setting, nestled adapter online in advance and leave countries.html) and has the world’s between Kaivopuisto Park and the your electric razor at home as certain leading educational system. Helsinki Gulf of Finland, providing a great electrical motors made for 110 V is centrally located between the view of the water and Harakka Island. will burn out. My electric razor was west and the east—about 12 hours This is one of the classic coffee toast on the third day. I thought it of travel time from the heart of the houses in Helsinki. All of these places sounded louder and felt warmer! U.S. and 12 hours to China/India are within walking distance of one and three hours or less to most another. Helsinki is a wonderful city. Go European cities. Helsinki sees itself visit the Finns and sip their culture. as a knowledge-based hub and they If you travel to Helsinki in June, And keep your eye out for a future are working to further their ability to bring your coat and carry a rain APWA Reporter or chapter newsletter deliver knowledge services to the rest poncho in your pack and dress in conference advertisement—perhaps of the world. layers as temperatures may swing to the next IFME World Congress sharply without much notice from on Municipal Engineering (2015) in In June, the City of Helsinki the low ’70s into the low ’50s. July Rotorua, New Zealand! I will. Kiitos! completed a major bicycle is Finland’s warmest month and thoroughfare from the proposed from what I understand practically Bill Burns can be reached at redeveloped port areas into the everyone is on vacation then. Bring [email protected]. heart of the city. This exclusive bicycle “freeway,” constructed within a former railroad viaduct, was constructed prior to the building development phase. This bicycle freeway provides the most efficient means of travel from the proposed redeveloped port areas into the city core. It is a straight shot—no stop signs, no traffic lights, and no automobile backups and it enables healthy utilitarian exercise.
I walked most of urban Helsinki and I noticed that practically all of the Finns were in good physical shape. There was a plethora of bicyclists. Don’t be surprised that the Finns don’t make eye contact with others in public. However, they do so if you ask them for directions and they are very courteous and helpful, and pretty much everyone forty years In July, then-President Diane Linderman represented APWA at the INGENIUM Conference in Rotorua, New Zealand, and had the opportunity to visit with of age or younger speaks excellent the leaders of INGENIUM and the Institute of Public Works Engineers Australia. English. With Diane at the conference are Neil Cook, INGENIUM President (center) and Paul Di Lulio, IPWEA President.
30 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 31 An update on Global Solutions in Public Works
Gail Ann Clark International Programs Manager American Public Works Association Washington, D.C.
“Nimble” is the adjective that one of public works programs in Finland I am particularly pleased to note our International Affairs Committee and attended the International that the program also saw a great (IAC) members used in regard to Federation of Municipal Engineering deal of new participation in 2012. In APWA’s “Global Solutions in Public (IFME) Global Conference there. addition to the projects mentioned Works” program as it evolves in Helsinki, Finland, is known for its above, applications ranged from its second year. I really liked that “underground master plan” that two members seeking to explore descriptive term. As we enter our includes a plethora of city services high-speed rail transit in China, to second year of Global Solutions in located below the city streets. A great a Canadian member who will be Public Works, APWA is able to use deal of innovation was seen by these presenting a paper on extracting this program in a flexible manner to participants and they have plans to heat from raw sewage for district allow our members and the public take that information back home energy and then touring several works community to take advantage and to our APWA membership. district energy systems in the of opportunities as they arise. Czech Republic. The program also On the flip side, in August 2012 supported the Jennings Randolph As an example, this is a program that one of our members delivered a Fellowship participants to New has sent a group of New England program on a major sustainability Zealand with the possibility of an public works directors to research the project from their city before the additional $1,000 of support. We’ve latest, most modern innovations in members of ICLEI-Mexico at their literally “gotten a lot of mileage” out stormwater management in Toronto, 10th Anniversary Congress. Gina of the program and this has been Canada, many of which are being Garcia from the City of Duncanville, one of the most rewarding programs considered for implementation in Tex., saw the opportunity to become that I have worked on as APWA staff. the New England region. And, the involved in this conference in the I can’t wait to see what opportunities same program also aided an APWA APWA Reporter and quickly moved the new year will bring. member from California to mentor to seize the moment of opportunity. an Engineers Without Borders Her sustainable infrastructure project Gail Ann Clark can be reached at (202) student team from the University of from her city of 40,000 was of 218-6732 or [email protected]. Oregon on a project in Guadalupe- much interest to the ICLEI-Mexico Carney, Honduras. The students attendees from around the world. implemented a stormwater solution Gina delivered this presentation ORDER CUSTOM BULK that will solve seasonal rain runoff in Spanish to the ICLEI-Mexico EDITORIAL REPRINTS problems in a small village. Two very Congress audience. different locations and economic Now that you have been circumstances, but common These are valuable international featured in the APWA problems that must be solved with exchanges that help us build Reporter, why not leverage innovative solutions. relationships with our public this opportunity to promote works colleagues internationally. It is because the program remains I really love the give and take that your product or service with flexible that we also see our members is involved in this program—our custom reprints? taking advantage of opportunity members learn from other countries’ Call our reprint partner as it presents itself. Several APWA innovations and our members members and public works mentor and inform others of our at (866) 879-9144 for leaders recently toured innovative innovations. complete details.
32 APWA Reporter September 2012 We want to hear from you!
Three opportunities to share your vision, best practices, lessons learned, and real- world strategies, systems, and insights…
April 7–10, 2013, Charlotte, North Carolina (date and location to be determined) 2013 North American 2013 Sustainability in Snow Conference Public Works Conference Submission deadline extended: September 15, 2012 Submission deadline: October 15, 2012
August 25–28, 2013, Chicago, Illinois 2013 International Public Works Congress & Exposition Submission deadline: September 30, 2012
Conference information and online submissions:
32 APWA Reporter September 2012 www.apwa.net/conferences/cfp City of Ames, Iowa: Police cars replaced by need, not by time or miles
n April 2010, Paul Hinderaker, The team met numerous times from conducted to gather the information Director of Fleet Services for the April through September 2010. They they used to accomplish this task. City of Ames, Iowa, chartered considered the fact that police cars The team also searched the web of a team of City employees from would be changing in the near future the OEMs of police cars for similar the Police Department and Fleet due to models either being changed information, but no useful or Services to review and update the in style or size, discontinued, or new practical information was found. An process and criteria used for taking ones being introduced. In addition, in-depth review of the survey data police cars out of service. Historically it was noted that police cars are indicated that agencies tend to use the cars had been removed from being used more as a mobile office either miles or time as the primary service at 130,000 miles, determined than before. criteria. The survey also found no mainly by fleet maintenance records. correlation between extending either However, in 2003, this was changed Ultimately, a survey of 14 other miles or time limits (done for budget by a new police chief to 25 months agencies, similar or close to the purposes) on cost effectiveness. in an effort to improve officer size and operations of Ames, was morale. Under this mandate, the cars came out of service with fewer miles on them, but the condition of the cars ranged widely from very poor condition to very good condition. Changes in technology, fuels, maintenance requirements, performance, up-fitting costs, usage, vehicle size and ergonomics, and miles and condition, justified revisiting this process.
The Team’s Charge The team was charged with the following:
• Identifying measurable operating and economic factors, and vehicle condition that could be used to permanently remove a police car from service.
• Identifying the factors that would ensure that each car would reliably remain in service for the optimal length of time or distance at the lowest life-cycle cost. Rich Bruns, City of Ames ASE Master Certified technician, performs preventive maintenance and inspection on one of the Parking Enforcement vehicles.
34 APWA Reporter September 2012 As part of the charter, the team focused on three concepts they felt impact the effectiveness of a squad car. The first is the perception of the condition of the vehicle by the officers. Although difficult to quantify, the team concluded that if the officers felt the car had passed its point of usefulness (i.e., they believed the car was not operating at appropriate standards) then its usefulness really did decline as officers would find repeated faults— resulting in extra shop time—or opt to drive another vehicle whenever possible. This perception became apparent for both mechanical and driver comfort issues.
The second concept, contrary to the first one, found that officers who did Officers take an active role in evaluating the condition of the units. They not take care of a vehicle, or acted helped develop the replacement program and provide valuable feedback. in a way that was detrimental to the quality of the vehicle, should not be “rewarded” for such behavior Conclusions and Recommendations Prior to 80,000 miles or 20 months: by getting a new car earlier than Although time and mileage alone • Any major repair will require a would normally occur. The concern are too rigid to use as replacement review of the cost effectiveness is that if officers were to act in a criteria alone, and they do not of the repair manner that purposely, or through reflect the actual condition of a vehicle, they do remain the best indifference, decreased the quality • A major repair is defined as base characteristics to work from of the vehicle, they could effectively $2,000 or more argue that a car should be replaced when establishing a rotation much earlier than expected. In the schedule. With additional criteria • The repair will be evaluated for a end, this was not a great concern, added that reflects the concerns one-time permanent repair or a and this concept or action became of the officers, the actual physical symptom of a recurring problem an employee issue. condition of the car, the expertise of the fleet maintenance staff, and the • It is anticipated that repairs The third concept is that as an maintenance and service history of at this point will be made; emergency response vehicle, the vehicle, a more accurate picture however, beyond this point every squad car should be reliable of the condition, reliability, and the they become more significant (i.e., expected to perform within remaining life of each car can be and replacing the car would be specifications) at all times and they determined. considered should be removed from service before they fail, not after. Reliability To accomplish this, the team created At 80,000 miles or 20 months: should never be in question and any a flow chart/matrix of tasks and retention schedule should reflect time frames that every car will be • Police staff circulates a prepared that concept. Director Hinderaker subjected to. The goal is to remove a questionnaire and vehicle repair set the stage for this idea early when car from service due to its decline in request checklist to the officers he characterized “reliability” as a condition and reliability, not its age who operate the vehicle standard that meant that “anytime or miles driven. This will now occur or anywhere, an officer can climb at the following milestones of each • Fleet services conducts a detailed into a normally performing vehicle car’s service life: inspection without hesitation.”
34 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 35 New From APWA!
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Tree Protection & Preservation A Pocket Guide of Best Management Practices Planned Fleet Replacement 2012 • APWA 21 pp • 2012 • APWA Without a viable and comprehensive replacement This handy pocket guide provides basic program, fleet managers will be unable to and practical information on how to best replace vehicles and equipment when needed, or accomplish the most important management for that matter, may even be unable to identify activities for trees at-risk in construction areas. the optimum time to replace these items. This These BMPs will help give the trees the best book will help you get a plan and work the plan chance to survive and thrive during and after to your agency’s benefit. the construction process. PB.A1223 • Members $15 /Non$20 PB.A1221 • Members $6 /Non $11
An Interview with Robert Albee Bayou City Rails: A History of 2012 • APWA Urban Transit in Houston, Texas A unifying theme of Robert Albee’s career has 2012 • APWA • Stephanie Fuglaar Statz been its focus on the design, maintenance, and The history of the streetcar in Houston (1868- management of that most humble yet vital part 1940) illustrates the importance of long- of the urban landscape, the city street. As a term urban planning and coordination of top level official on the Big Dig, Albee played multiple forms of transportation for successful a major role in overseeing one of the greatest development of mass transit. This essay examines and most complex public works projects the consequence of many decisions made over ever undertaken in the history of the United decades, which resulted in the demise of the States—Boston’s Big Dig, the Central Artery/ streetcar and the rise of the automobile. Tunnel Project. PB.A1220 • Members $12 /Non $17 PB.A1222 • Members $15 /Non $20
APWA is YOUR one-stop public works resource! To order call: 1-800-848-2792, ext. 5254 or buy online 36 APWA Reporter September 2012 at www2.apwa.net/bookstore • Fleet tech and police liaison use Another benefit of this process— Summary the questionnaire, repair request, valuable data will be created to assist This revised process is an excellent and inspection to complete a staff with “data driven decision tool that not only will benefit the vehicle Review Form making,” one of the City’s core Police Department’s budget, but can cultural values. This information be modified to fit the remaining • Fleet tech and police liaison will also help identify inappropriate vehicles and equipment in the City’s recommend retention or driving habits of officers that can be fleet of about 250 vehicles, three replacement to the Fleet Services used for driver training needs. dozen pieces of heavy equipment Director and Police Chief and over 400 pieces of support Economic Impact on Police Dept equipment. This practice will • If retention is recommended, Budget ultimately contribute to the City’s any repairs needed will be made As part of the fleet management overarching goal of “Providing and the car will be detailed to program, Ames also uses a revolving Exceptional Services at the Best Price improve the appearance and replacement fund to pay for and to Create an Enjoyable and perception of the car’s reliability the purchase and up-fitting of Stimulating Work Environment.” • If replacement is recommended, their cars. To do this, funds are From Ames applying this Exceptional that process will be scheduled transferred monthly from the Police Service concept and practice to not Department’s operating budget only the fleet but in all the services they provide, the citizens and At 100,000 miles or 25 months: into a replacement fund, which is protected from predation from taxpayers are getting the most value • Use the same steps as done at maintenance program expenses. for their tax dollars. 80,000 miles These funds are equal to 1/25th of the estimated replacement cost and Contributed by Paul Hinderaker, • Consideration can be given up-fitting of the next car, times the Director of Fleet Services, City of to rotate a squad car out of number of cars operated. When the Ames, Iowa, (515) 239-5521, the patrol service and into the retired cars are sold, those funds [email protected]. service of either a Community also are returned to the replacement Service Officer (CSO) or a School fund. Resource Officer (SRO), which ORDER CUSTOM BULK neither requires a new car due to Using the new replacement process low utilization will benefit the City’s budget by EDITORIAL REPRINTS realizing a savings for every month At 125,000 miles or 30 months: a car remains in service beyond 25 months, and of course will realize a Now that you have • Use same steps as done at 80,000 loss, or higher cost, for every month been featured in the miles anticipating replacing the a car is replaced before 25 months. APWA Reporter, why car at this point Since this practice was instituted, more months have been saved not leverage this • These milestones, however, are than lost. Should this prove to be opportunity to promote to be used as guidelines and the norm, the amount of funds the any car found to be in reliable Police Department will be required your product or service condition will remain in service, to put in the replacement fund will with custom reprints? but will be monitored closely be reduced to reflect the savings; at each service level or repair and every 25 months gained is equal requirement to the value of one car, or around Call our reprint $28,000. This savings could also be Since the inception of this process, used as an incentive to the officers partner at (866) one car has been removed from operating the vehicles, to help service earlier than the 125,000 their department’s budget for other 879-9144 for mark, while two other cars have resources requested but previously remained in service past the 125,000 denied due to lack of funding. complete details. mile point.
36 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 37 Road map to fleet success
Rob Hoysgaard Utility Business Development Manager Automotive Resources International (ARI) Mount Laurel, New Jersey
anaging the life cycles of that throws off an expected vehicle ensure there is little to no overlap utility and government fleet delivery. To successfully time the entry or downtime between the purchase vehicles is like navigating and removal of complex utility and of a new vehicle and the phase-out a road map. If given the government vehicles from service, of an old vehicle. This technology option today to plan the course fleet managers need to know the streamlines the process, relieving the using either an old, outdated method status of where their vehicles are in burden on managers, freeing their such as a printed map or using the the process and be able to rely on time to address more complex fleet latest technology such as a GPS, who accurate delivery dates. challenges. When delays do occur, the wouldn’t choose technology? Both tools swiftly notify fleet managers, the printed map and the GPS will Fleet managers can leverage allowing them time to more help you arrive at your destination, production status information effectively plan the usage of their in- but the latest technology will help through new technologies and web- services vehicles to minimize potential you with turn-by-turn support, early based tools that integrate real-time disruptions. notification of potential problems, information from manufacturers, and confirmations that you’re on upfitters, delivery companies and Turn #2: Vehicle Maintenance the right track. To achieve successful others within the supply chain to Regularly scheduled maintenance is a fleet management, fleet managers need to navigate the vehicle life cycle using a road map backed with technology to achieve greater success in getting where they want to be and have greater control over costs while getting there.
Turn #1: Supply Chain Management While trying to focus on the day-to- day activities, even a fleet manager known for running an efficient and cost-conscious operation can fall victim to a lag in its supply chain
Finding true savings for complex utility fleets can be a sophisticated balancing act that requires research Given the amount and cost of specialized equipment in the electric industry, and strategy. routine vehicle maintenance is critical.
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38 APWA Reporter September 2012 fundamental way fleet managers can maximize the life of their vehicles and equipment. But the process used to allocate maintenance is often overlooked. It takes more than just having a routine schedule in place. Streamlining the vehicle maintenance process can uncover significant savings, while extending the life of the vehicle or equipment.
One area where improvements can be found is with the decision process for allocating in-house maintenance work vs. vendor-out maintenance. Garage management systems that integrate data from both in-house and vendor-out maintenance work provide valuable support for fleet managers to allocate repairs based on timeframes, Effectively managing an electric fleet requires an acute awareness of and ap- costs, manpower and expertise. For preciation for data. instance, a manager can generally a company will get the most return within a certain radius of a business. allocate light-duty maintenance for a used vehicle. Unfortunately, But the worldwide buying and selling to outside vendors and keep the fleets are not always in a position to audience has significantly expanded specialized and complicated work in- sell vehicles during these maximum in recent years. Buyers from around house for the company’s highly-skilled return windows. But even the oldest the globe can now participate in in-house teams. An integrated garage vehicle in the fleet can still return an auction in Topeka, Kans., and management system can provide fast some value, even if it’s just for parts or Tallahassee, Fla., in the same day— and thorough analysis of each work scrap. The first place managers should thanks to the Internet. This allows order so a fleet manager can identify look to improve their remarketing managers to put their used vehicles times when the work should be given strategy is in their parking lots. in front of more potential buyers and alternative treatment. With a greater Managers need to dump the dead maximize the potential return. level of control and efficiency, fleet weight. Eliminating unused vehicles managers can take a more strategic from the fleet’s balance sheet can save When time is of the essence, fleet approach to managing maintenance fleets thousands of dollars. managers can’t afford to wait months schedules and maximizing vehicle life to attend a local auction. Instead, cycles. Many fleet managers may be they should turn to online resale sites hesitant to put older vehicles up for and auctions with virtual capabilities. Turn #3: Remarketing auction for fear that the expense This combination expands the vehicle Even with the best maintenance will outweigh the return. While this exposure and provides immediate programs, no vehicle lasts forever. is understandable there are ways to resale potential. Similarly, it doesn’t make sense ensure a positive return. There are for fleets to wait until a vehicle companies that will buy the vehicle Destination on Right completely falls apart or is sitting at a guaranteed price, remove it from The time is now for fleet managers idly in the lot all day to phase it out. the vehicle’s location and then take to embrace the systems available to Remarketing, like many things, is a the risk of reselling it or harvesting streamline their journey toward fleet balancing act. Fleet managers can the parts themselves. This gives fleets success. With this technology-boosted recoup significant value from their the opportunity to have a consistent road map as a guide, fleet managers used vehicles and equipment by measurable return. can search for new solutions and establishing an effective, balanced uncover unrealized loss and potential remarketing strategy. Vehicle age is simply one example, moving forward. but successful channel selection is A fleet management system with key to success. In the past, exposure Rob Hoysgaard can be reached at (856) proactive life cycle cost analysis at auto auctions was limited to buyers 787-6563 or [email protected]. can help reveal the point at which
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40 APWA Reporter September 2012 www.apwa.net/workzone How to reach out to the media
Dan Berlenbach, CPFP Fleet Maintenance Superintendent City of Phoenix, Arizona
Under scrutiny dollars. Not so accustomed to liability, and protects the public (let Gone are the days when vehicle operating under this microscope, we alone supporting the department’s maintenance shops stayed (and are forced to defend our decisions missions). Your hybrids, CNG preferred to be) hidden behind the and processes, and to clean up and vehicles, use of E-85 fuel, B-20 diesels, operators’ glory in getting the mission modernize what we do to be most re-refined oil use, antifreeze recycling, done. While it used to be that we efficient. While this is not news etc., make you an excellent steward preferred to be “out-of-sight, out- to most of you, there is a strategy of the public’s resources. Your ASE of-mind,” fixing our trucks, talking that allows you to head off some certification program, extended life our own lingo, getting dirty and of the questions of your operation cycles, off-season rebuilds, reverse enjoying the challenge of repairing and perhaps even to keep the Grim auctions, fleet utilization cuts, etc., the unrepairable, those days are gone. “Outsourcing” Reaper away from your all are proof of your efficiency. Over and done with, in fact. The shop’s door. new normal in fleet maintenance/ Continuing in the proactive service units is that we along with the The best defense is a good approach, if you participate in other “support” functions within the offense national awards programs such government structure are all under The idea behind reaching out to as The 100 Best Fleets in North intense scrutiny. media is to tell your story, to head off America program, or certification the bad news with some good news. programs for your techs (APWA’s This scrutiny is due to two main There are countless things you do in Certified Public Fleet Professional; reasons—the economy’s harsh effect a well-run fleet that are interesting, ASE Blue Seal) or for your shop/fleet on governmental operations, and the green, sustainable, and above all, (such as the Center for Professional high cost of operating a fleet, both efficient. Your comprehensive PM Fleet Certification) you have the in capital and ongoing maintenance program keeps City staff safe, reduces best possible material for a strong outreach.
Most political leaders enjoy telling a success story and recognizing those involved. Presenting the award your fleet won or certification earned to City Council is an instant statement of your competence, it makes a great media story, and as a bonus, it’s absolutely fantastic for morale. In a previous position, when our team earned a spot in the 100 Best Fleets program we presented the award and a large banner to City Council. The photo of our mayor and councilmen holding that banner was priceless.
Friend or enemy? This depends on your perspective. Would you rather see an article about A refurbished side loader from the City of Phoenix fleet an audit that uncovered fraud or
42 APWA Reporter September 2012 mismanagement in your area? Of As for trade and fleet publications, course not. Reaching out to the media there are a myriad. For these you can assumes you are doing the basics right contact them directly, and can usually and running an efficient fleet, with find contact info on their website. sound processes and in accordance Besides the APWA Reporter, some of with (best) industry practices. my favorites are:
If you think they’re the enemy, • Public Works Magazine you probably need to take an introspective look at your operations. • Government Fleet Transparency is much more than a • Fleet Maintenance buzz word; it is an operating mantra for most governments nowadays. • Fleet Equipment A CNG vehicle from the City of Phoe- Embrace it or it will embrace you, if nix fleet you know what I mean. • Automotive Fleet into affirmation that your area “has • CCJ Commercial Carrier Journal In my many contacts with the its stuff together.” It can also help media, I’ve found they generally • Light and Medium Truck when those in upper management want to tell the story, highlight are considering outsourcing. It the positives, and relate it to the • Work Truck Magazine often happens that those operations reader. So if you’re reaching out to targeted first for outsourcing are • Green Car Journal a fleet publication, tell it in fleet those that are performing poorly or terms. If you’re talking to the local • Police Fleet Manager have the reputation as such. You can newspaper, stress the savings, safety, combat this with positive press to or efficiency aspects. Don’t look at it • Waste Advantage improve your area’s reputation. as bragging, look at it as telling the story of your great employees and • Waste Age As for pride and morale, these benefits are a natural by-product their accomplishments. After all, it’s Many of these trade publications send of your staff reading about what all about them, not you. And it’s not regular e-mail blasts and are very they accomplished, showing it to really bragging when you’re talking receptive to including a story you their families, and appreciating that about someone else. send of even less than momentous someone has “finally” recognized news. For example, the latest the hard work they do behind the Types of media Government Fleet eNews had stories scenes. Certainly pride and morale There are two main types of media on one fleet’s choice of the Chevrolet increase teamwork, productivity and that will benefit you. First, there Tahoe for their Police Pursuit vehicle, efficiency. is local media, most likely still the a city that installed DriveCam on newspaper, although your story could their vehicles, a university that Downside? be featured on their website as well. installed wireless charging systems for None really. Just be careful that you The second is the many fleet (trade) electric vehicles, and features on the go through your PIO and that you publications that exist, either in Number 1 Fleet in the country and stick to the story you’re telling. The printed or electronic form. Public Sector Fleet Manager of the “new normal” of transparency, tight Year. For the local news, consider stories budgets, and increased scrutiny are that will be of interest to the local Benefits of an outreach program strong incentives to boosting your populace. Stories of increased reputation. Reaching out to the media Reaching out to media has two efficiency, green/sustainability is an ideal way to do just that. main benefits—it enhances your success, and national awards make operation’s credibility and it boosts great stories. Make sure to check Dan Berlenbach has responsibility for pride and morale of your workforce. with your organization’s Public maintenance of the City of Phoenix’s Better credibility can translate Information Officer (PIO) before you 7,600-vehicle fleet. He has 37 years of into easier approval of initiatives put a story out there so that you don’t fleet experience with the U.S. Air Force, and budgets from your area when run afoul of local policies. The PIO is City of Oxnard, Calif., and Phoenix. He Council members or management also frequently the conduit between can be reached at (602) 262-7037 or staff remember that positive press you and the local media. [email protected]. that you recently had and translate it
42 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 43 Fleet consolidation
Craig Croner, CPFP Administrative Services Manager City of Boise, Idaho
entralizing fleet management deciding when to replace vehicles. In – Develop Fleet replacement activities from a previously fact, there were no City policies that policy decentralized business model set standards and criteria for replacing – Conduct a right-sizing analysis can be a daunting task. This vehicles. As a result, the overall fleet process inevitably results in a general utilization was low, fleet asset count – Develop long-range reduction of operational control was high, and Fleet Services was replacement plan and will most likely affect change completely decentralized. – Analyze alternative financing management within departments. approaches Pushback will likely ensue in In order to promote an open, • Cost Control, Cost Allocation and several areas such as procurement, transparent communication strategy Charge-back Rates preventive maintenance scheduling a Gantt chart was created to identify and outsourced vehicle repairs. objectives and time frames for goal – Develop the Fleet budget Since most departments involved accomplishment. We successfully further to include capital costs, with the centralization process used the Gantt chart in briefings maintenance and repair costs, will have competing interests, it is for executive management and in fuel costs and the appropriate vital that the fleet centralization communication with departments. allocation of indirect and project be conducted with executive This tool provided the right mix of overhead costs management support in conjunction information for both groups and – Develop capital cost charge- with an open, transparent facilitated change management for back rates communication strategy. everyone. – Develop operating costs charge- back rates In 2007, the City of Boise performed Major goals identified by the Fleet a fleet management study that Strategic Plan and tracked on the • Fleet Management Information resulted in a directive to centralize Gantt chart are shown below: System (FMIS) and optimize all fleet operations. – Identify budget for FMIS The study was performed by City • Information Technology acquisition staff in coordination with Mercury Administration and and Associates. For purposes of this Implementation – Develop FMIS specification criteria project “optimize” meant achieving – Develop a centralized Fleet a balance between the best services budget – Obtain Council approval to to fleet users at the lowest possible fund the FMIS overall cost. A Fleet Strategic Plan was – Create a Fleet Advisory Board – Place FMIS specifications out to created that identified the goals and – Update business plans to reflect bid made recommendations on how to the reorganization of Fleet best achieve them. After further review Services – Implement FMIS of the goals and the extent of the • Policies and Regulations • Maintenance Operations consolidation project, it was decided – Consolidate supervision and that Step 1 would be to recruit and – Analyze peer city policies and management of remotely hire a dedicated Fleet Manager. regulations located technicians – Create draft policies and Fleet activities in Boise at that time regulations – Create an office for the new were substantially decentralized. Fleet Services Manager • Fleet Replacement Planning Departments were responsible – Develop and implement an for developing their own asset – Develop Fleet replacement outsourcing policy that has the management strategy including criteria
44 APWA Reporter September 2012 “best Bang for the Buck” should be centralized under • Developed FMIS specification Fleet Services after software criteria – Develop a facility space needs implementation assessment • Obtained Council approval to fund the FMIS – Develop a technician training The Gantt chart was built around the program • Placed FMIS specifications out to goals identified in the Fleet Strategic bid – Create a comprehensive Plan. As of May 2008, the chart looked maintenance procedure manual like that shown in Figure 1. • Analyzed alternative financing reflecting centralized operation approaches and long-range replacement plans – Create basic Service Level Items in green are those which had Agreements for each been completed; items in yellow • Consolidated supervision and department are those next in line to start on or management of remotely located already underway; and items in red technicians • Fuel and Supply Operations show the expected delivery date. Items • Created an office for the new Fleet – Review the City’s supply and completed by May 2008 include: Services Manager fuel procurement policies, procedures and practices. • Developed a centralized Fleet • Developed a facility space needs Modify as needed budget assessment – Analyze Fleet-related • Created a Fleet Advisory Board • Developed a technician training transaction and establish a program • Analyzed peer city policies and formal contract for parts and regulations • Reviewed and analyzed the services current fuel procurement policies, • Identified budget for FMIS – Determine if responsibility procedures and practices. Modify acquisition for City’s fuel transactions as needed
Figure 1: Boise City Fleet Strategic Plan Gantt Chart as of May 2008
44 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 45 By November 2008, the chart reflected • Conducted a right-sizing analysis • Implement FMIS the completion of several additional • Developed a long-range • Developed and implemented an tasks and established the historical replacement plan outsourcing policy that has the timeline, as shown in Figure 2. “best Bang for the Buck” • Analyzed alternative financing New items achieved include: approaches • Created a comprehensive • Developed the Fleet budget maintenance procedure manual • Updated business plans to reflect further to include capital costs, reflecting centralized operation reorganization of Fleet Services maintenance and repair costs, fuel costs and the appropriate • Created basic Service Level • Created draft policies and allocation of indirect and Agreements for each department regulations overhead costs • Analyzed fleet-related transactions • Developed official Fleet • Developed capital cost charge- and establish formal contracts for replacement criteria back rates Parts & Services • Developed operating costs charge- • Developed Fleet replacement • Determined if responsibility for back rates policy City’s fuel transactions should be
Figure 2: Boise City Fleet Strategic Plan Gantt Chart as of November 2008
46 APWA Reporter September 2012 centralized under Fleet Services The Gantt chart held all the by the Fleet Strategic Plan. We used a after software implementation objectives and recommendations in Gantt chart to track and monitor our one document. By using the Gantt progress as a tool to promote an open, Two additional tasks were identified chart during briefings and updates, transparent communication strategy. and added to the chart during this we were able to clearly show the We also used this tool when reporting period: individual tasks and our progress progress to executive management. toward achieving them. This helped Using a Gantt chart proved to be • Developed Motor Pool charge- gain executive management support essential to the success of this project. back rates for the fleet centralization project. As • Implement Motor Pool software goals were attained, the changes in Craig Croner has worked in the fleet the chart gave a clear, concise record industry for 28 years and has managed to see and gauge progress. Using the private and public fleets since 1992. He As of October 2009, all tasks identified Gantt chart during Fleet Advisory has been the Fleet Manager for the City of by green in the Gantt chart had been Team meetings with department Boise since 2008 and helped implement completed. However, the motor pool representatives provided the open, a rapid centralization to the formerly software was procured in FY 2010 and transparent communication needed to decentralized city fleet. The City of Boise the implementation was completed in gain their support. was recognized for the last four years January 2011. as one of the “100 Best Fleets” in the Throughout the process of nation. Craig can be reached at (208) Including the two additions regarding implementing Fleet Centralization, 384-3747 or [email protected]. the Motor Pool, the Gantt chart we followed the timelines established looked like that shown in Figure 3.
Figure 3: Boise City Fleet Strategic Plan Gantt Chart as of October 2009
46 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 47 Purchasing and installing publicly-accessible electric vehicle charging stations
Chuck Spratt, CPFP Fleet Services Superintendent Village of Wheeling, Illinois
f you are currently the manager to 5,000 by the end of 2011, and their constituents before approving of a municipal fleet, chances are 6,300 by March 2012. A recent report expenditures. In my mind, the key you’ve been asked to research by Pike Research forecasts that more phrase that led me in how to present ways to reduce your fleet’s fuel than 1.5 million charging locations this idea was “publicly-accessible.” costs, start greening that fleet, and will be available in the U.S. by 2017 In all parts of the country, publicly- at the same time promote energy with a total of 7.7 million locations and privately-installed EV charging conservation in your community—oh, worldwide. stations are showing up in popular and by the way, there is no money locations such as shopping areas and in the budget to do this! While we’ve So where do you start? The spark town centers. The theory behind this taken numerous measures to reduce (no pun intended) for me came is that people with EV’s will seek out our fuel costs and reduce our fleet’s when I was going through my e-mail areas they can go to shop, dine, find carbon footprint, this article discusses and was alerted to a program in entertainment or just run normal promoting energy conservation my state sponsored by the Illinois errands while at the same time be within your community, specifically Department of Commerce and able to charge their EV’s. This was the the installation of publicly-accessible Economic Opportunity. This was a angle I took and was eventually given electric vehicle charging stations. first-of-its-kind program which offered approval for the project. a rebate award of 50% of the cost of Gas prices consistently hovering installation (including equipment and With the first pitch out of the way, I around the $4 to $5 mark the past labor) up to a maximum of $3,500 per started on my second pitch which was year and advancements in electric unit, for up to a maximum of fourteen to the agency awarding the rebates. vehicles (EV’s) and the batteries that units. This rebate amount was for I downloaded the rebate documents power them have caused public publicly-accessible EV charging units. and got to work. Not knowing a entities, private companies and The rebate amount was less for private whole lot about EV charging stations individual citizens alike to seriously stations. I started researching them on the consider these fuel-efficient vehicles. Internet. To my surprise I found quite One of the biggest hurdles in the Okay, now that there is at least a few manufacturers of these units. promotion of electric vehicles has a partial funding mechanism for They ranged from simple residential been the infrastructure needed to keep purchasing and installing these chargers to sophisticated commercial these modern wonders charged up and units, what’s next? Since this project charging stations. So which one was on the road. Because of this hurdle, would still require some local dollars right for our project? The rebate manufacturers have been reluctant to complete and was not something program application guidelines helped to spend money on the research, we had budgeted for, the idea of out here as they listed the criteria development and manufacturing of purchasing and installing publicly- for program-eligible equipment. For these cars. But in the last year or so, accessible EV charging stations had to example, the equipment had to be several visionaries have taken a leap be presented to and accepted by the single or dual Level II EV charging of faith and jumped into this market Village Manager and elected officials. units (“Level II” means 208-240 volt with both feet. And it is because While stating that the reason you AC charging with a cord connector of this that there has been a rather are recommending a project like this that meets the SAE J1772 standard). sizable increase in the number of is because EV’s reduce the carbon I chose to go with a “dual level” unit charging station installations recently. footprint and are another step toward which means that in addition to a greener society is great, you have the 208-240 volt connection, a 110- Charging station installations are on to remember that elected officials 115 volt outlet is also provided for the rise. In April 2011 there were 750 are charged with keeping a watchful charging. Several of the commercially stations nationwide. By August 2011, eye over the taxpayers’ dollars and available EV’s have 110 volt charging the number had grown to 2,916, close like to see some financial benefits for cords for home use and most
48 APWA Reporter September 2012 Neighborhood Electric Vehicles industry, the NEC has included • A place where people park their (NEV’s) which are becoming popular specific articles to address these vehicles while shopping, dining and accepted in more areas are also units and an increasing number of or possibly commuting to work generally charged with a 110 volt electricians are attending training to is ideal. Visibility from nearby cord. Other important requirements learn about the proper installation of arterial streets is also a plus. for EV charging stations are: EV stations. Now that you’ve found the perfect • Certified by Underwriters So your rebate proposal has been spot that is highly visible and Laboratories or equivalent submitted to the rebating agency, and easily accessible, there is one more certification. after a week or so you receive a notice consideration. You have to ensure to proceed. Now it’s time for the that any location you choose has • Manufacturer’s warranty of no less installation. the necessary infrastructure to power than one year. these units. Each dual level II station As I stated earlier, when preparing a requires two dedicated 40 amp grant or rebate proposal for a project • Compliant with the current circuits to power them. It somewhat like this, location is key; and, when version of the National Electrical negates the benefit of obtaining the choosing a location, there are several Code (NEC) Article 625 and equipment at a reduced cost if it ends considerations: all state and local codes and up costing you two or three times certification requirements. more to bring in the power you need • The charging stations should be to run it. In our case we decided to easily accessible to the public place two dual level charging stations Publicly-accessible charging stations because if they are difficult to find at one of our commuter parking should also meet the following or too much of a hassle to get to, lots located directly off of a heavily- technology requirements: they probably won’t get used. traveled road. This location is also in • Networking to enable real- time location and status communication capabilities.
• Non-proprietary, standards-based communications protocols.
• If use of the units requires a monetary transaction, units should have an open transaction platform.
• Uniform signage clearly displaying equipment specifications, including power level and instructions for use and payment.
• Compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
In addition to these equipment requirements, the units should be installed by a professional electrician licensed to transact business in your state. I recommend seeking out an electrician who has experience in the installation of EV charging Installation of two dual level II charging stations in commuter parking lot stations. While this type of equipment adjacent to heavily traveled street. Power was drawn from traffic control box is relatively new to the electrical at right.
48 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 49 close proximity to a parcel of land EV station owners can monitor their 20 years, formerly with the City of that is earmarked for a transportation- stations through this same network Evanston and currently with the Village based retail and residential and remotely set pricing, hours of Wheeling, Illinois. He is a member development in the near future. We of operation and perform other of the Chicago area-based Municipal were able to utilize a streetlighting administrative tasks. Networking is an Fleet Managers Association, NAFA, and control box to draw power for important feature when choosing and APWA. He holds the title of Certified the charging stations so electrical installing EV charging stations as it Public Fleet Professional through APWA installation costs were relatively low. allows EV users to easily find stations and is working toward becoming a By using department personnel to along their route, and it makes paying Certified Automotive Fleet Manager perform the concrete work we saved for their charging sessions as easy as (CAFM). He can be reached at (847) even more on installation costs. Total swiping a credit card. 279-6961 or [email protected]. cost of purchase and installation of two stations after the rebate was While no one can predict for sure $5,934. which alternative fuel will someday ORDER CUSTOM BULK replace the rapidly depleting supply EDITORIAL REPRINTS The stations we installed are of fossil fuels we now use, electric- connected to a network of charging powered vehicles will certainly play an Now that you have been featured stations through a cellular uplink. EV important roll in our transportation in the APWA Reporter, why not users can log on to the “ChargePoint” future—so you might as well start leverage this opportunity to promote network from their PC or smart phone building the infrastructure now. Just your product or service with custom and find charging stations all over like in the movie Field of Dreams, “If reprints? the country. The website will give the you build it, they will come!” location of the stations, what kind Call our reprint partner of hookup is available, how much it Chuck Spratt is a graduate of Lincoln at (866) 879-9144 for will cost, and will even tell you if that Technical Institute and has been a station is currently occupied. Municipal Fleet Manager for over complete details. EVERYTHING YOU NEED UNDER ONE SIGN. SALES · LEASING · RENTALS USED EQUIPMENT ALL MAKES REPAIR & PARTS 24-HOUR PARTS & SERVICE FLEXIBLE FINANCING
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6456-3_WS_Construction1p_APWAR.indd 1 4/9/12 12:29 PM Tool policies for employees
Angela Marazita, CPFP Fleet Manager City of Windsor, Ontario
ools enable a tradesperson impact guns, air drills and torque annually and determines a budget to efficiently carry out their wrenches are kept securely in the for the purchase of additional tools duties and are considered a parts stockroom and distribution is as deemed necessary. condition of employment controlled by the stockkeeper. This for many employers. Standard allows the stockkeeper to monitor Diagnostic scan tools tools are expected to be a part of the assignment of tools to employees The City of Windsor has a number each tradesperson’s tool box with and ensure that they are returned. of diagnostic scan tools for light- specialty tools being provided by and heavy-duty vehicles. They are the employer. Every employer On a regular basis and as the fleet primarily used to diagnose engine must consider the importance of a changes, newer specialty tools are codes or faults and are stored in a tradesperson’s tools as employees added to the inventory. The City of secure location in the garage office. take great pride in the tool box they Windsor is committed to ensuring Use of the scan tools is monitored by bring to the workplace. that appropriate tools are available the supervisor and OEM updates are for all employees regardless of their purchased regularly as they become Tool boxes job classification. The management available. At the City of Windsor, a certified team reviews the current inventory tradesperson is required to provide and maintain a tool box with the necessary tools to perform their job duties. For those employees who are not certified, the employer will supply a tool box for each employee working in the classification when hired. The contents are verified against a tool list and any missing tools are purchased to ensure the employee has a complete set. While working in the classification, the tool box is the employee’s responsibility and any lost or missing tools must be replaced by the employee. Tools that are worn out or broken will be replaced by the employer.
Specialty tools Employers provide an inventory of specialty tools since they are specific to their shop needs. It is important to track these tools as they will be used by all staff and can be costly to replace. At the City of Windsor, all specialty tools such as Specialty tools that are stored in the parts stockroom at the City of Windsor
52 APWA Reporter September 2012 Tool allowances At the City of Windsor, an annual policies and procedures, will ensure A tool allowance is a way to provide tool allowance is negotiated during the successful maintenance of a safe payment to employees in order to collective bargaining and the and productive fleet. cover normal wear and tear of their amount is paid to employees on a tools. For employers that do not give monthly basis for the duration of the Angela Marazita was the first a tool allowance, it is common that contract. Canadian woman to achieve the they would pay to replace tools that CPFP designation. She can be reached are broken at work. Supporting your staff with the at (519) 255-6560 or amarazita@city. appropriate tools, supplemented by windsor.on.ca. There are many things to consider when establishing a tool allowance for employees. Most importantly, employers should identify the positions that require tools in order to perform their daily job duties, as this will be the basis for determining who is eligible to receive the tool allowance.
Once the positions have been determined, there are two common methods of establishing the tool allowance. The first method is based on a percentage of the retail value for the tools required by the specific position. This would require documentation of the required tools for each position and it should be reviewed on a regular basis to determine the current value. A percentage would then be applied to the value in order to establish the current tool allowance. The second method is to determine a fixed dollar amount per job classification. Once established, this method would only be adjusted upon discussion and agreement between the employer and the employees.
The established allowance can be CRUDE paid annually or on a monthly basis. Annual allowances are usually Call it what you will — price adjustments, indexing, or escalators. We call it an outdated negotiated to be paid on a particular bidding policy that subsidizes oil-based asphalt. Asphalt’s slick deals cost DOTs and pay or by a specific date each year taxpayers millions when oil prices rise, even when more durable materials like concrete and reflect an amount for the full promise affordability and stable pricing. Learn more about asphalt’s raw deals at www.think-harder.org/CRUDE year. On the other hand, a monthly allowance may be allocated in order to provide the employee with a regular installment to assist them should they need tools replaced throughout the year.
52 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 53 Six purchasing tips for fleet professionals
Keith R. Nicolson, CPFP Fleet & Radio Communications Supervisor City of Eugene, Oregon
urchasing a new piece using the equipment has involvement 90% of the time. This should be the of equipment can be a in the process. They know more than starting point for the acquisition. complicated process for a anyone else regarding what the work Try to avoid writing specifications government fleet. Public entails and the type of equipment it for every possible eventuality. For agencies have involved purchasing takes to get the job done. The more example, does the equipment need processes, and it’s important to the crew is involved, the better the a 4-wheel-drive if it’s only necessary work with the system to ensure chance they will support the final once or twice a year? Are there other that the organization gets the decision, which will also transcend options for those times? right tool for the job it is expected into improved care of the equipment to perform. The process requires and better efficiency for the end user. Also it’s important to understand working closely with the end user, the where the program needs are today purchasing department and the fleet In addition to the operational crew and where they will be before the maintenance staff. involvement, be sure to involve the life cycle of the equipment is up. It’s repair shop. Fleet technicians are a poor use of limited tax dollars to The following six tips will help a great resource when purchasing purchase something to meet today’s fleet professionals ensure a smooth new equipment. They can help needs only to find out that the purchase process and get the right identify components that may have program will evolve a year later and tool for the job. historically been high failure items, the current equipment no longer components that might increase/ meets the need. 1. Understand the purchasing decrease preventive maintenance rules and regulations times, special tools that might be 5. Specification development While all public agencies have needed, and other components After gathering information about purchasing laws to follow, it is already used in the fleet to create available equipment, the next step important to understand the process standardization. The technicians is to create a specification matrix. within the specific agency. As a fleet will look at the specifications from This matrix contains all of the key manager it is essential to have a the technical aspect, while the end functions of the equipment and good working relationship with the user will tend to look at it from an lists all of the specifications for purchasing office. Meet with the operational aspect. each manufacturer. This process purchasing manager and ensure that allows a side-by-side comparison everyone understands the protocol 3. Research available equipment of the equipment. A matrix allows for acquiring parts and equipment. Understanding what is available the specification writer to create Think of the purchasing office as in the marketplace is a big part of a competitive open specification an extension of fleet services. They determining new equipment needs. listing minimum requirements. are there to help procure what the Research equipment through the It will also show areas where a organization needs while keeping Internet, trade shows, peer networks, manufacturer cannot provide the the process legal. This is also an trade magazines, manufacturer minimum requirements. Have a solid opportunity to educate purchasing newsletters or requests for business reason why the agency needs personnel on the world of fleet information (RFI). something specific, especially if it will services and the specific needs for the rule out a vendor that would want to equipment. 4. Determine the right bid. In order to create a competitive equipment size and open bid, avoid specifying 2. Involve the employees Know what the end user expects brand-specific items. Instead make it Ensure that the operational crew the equipment to do approximately performance based.
54 APWA Reporter September 2012 Sample Matrix Layout
Chevrolet Ford Ford Chevrolet Dodge Dodge OPTIONS Caprice Caprice Interceptor Interceptor Charger V8 Charger V6 V8 V6 Turbo Non-Turbo
Drive RWD RWD RWD RWD AWD/FWD AWD/FWD configuration
Engine 6.0L V8 3.6L V6 5.7L V8 3.6L V6 3.5L Eco- 3.5L V6 Boost V6
Transmission 6-speed 6-speed 5-speed 5-speed 6-speed 6-speed
Rated Horse 355@5300 301@6700 370@5250 292@6350 365@5500 280@6250 Power Rpm RPM RPM RPM RPM RPM
6. Determine the purchasing a formal bid process. A formal bid RFPs work well when the agency is avenue process requires specific advertising undecided on the best equipment There are several ways to make a and postings, and the bids need to for the application. They generally purchase, including a request for be submitted sealed and opened at a describe the intent, purpose and role quote (RFQ) or invitation for bid specific date and time. of the equipment and are written in a (IFB), a request for proposal (RFP), more general format, giving the bidder sole source, or a piggy-back on an An RFQ/IFB is a good option if there some latitude. The decision to award existing bid (providing the appropriate is a detailed performance specification is based on “best” bid not “low” bid. language is contained within the that several vendors could meet, For this process the end user would existing bid). Agencies also can thus providing competitive pricing. assist in defining a screening matrix use purchasing co-ops such as the With this option the purchase order that is publicized along with the bid. National Joint Powers Alliance (NJPA), will be awarded based on the lowest Once bids are received, a screening the Houston-Galveston Area Council responsive bidder—known as a “low- committee would review the bids and (HGAC) or the state procurement bid.” assign points according to the matrix. network. Phase two could be demonstrations by An RFP allows for more flexibility the vendors. This gives the operators Determine first if this purchase in the purchasing process, although the ability to have hands-on exposure crosses the cost threshold to require this process is more time consuming. to the new equipment to help determine best fit for their needs.
Purchasing a new piece of fleet equipment entails specific steps to ensure the organization gets what it needs. As agencies continue to evaluate and extend their equipment life cycles to manage budget shortfalls, it’s likely the fleet will probably have this equipment for a long time. It’s important to make sure it not only meets the needs for today, but also into the future.
Keith Nicolson has worked in the fleet industry for over 23 years, 11 of which have been with the City of Eugene. He can be reached at (541) 682-4867 or The City of Eugene purchased this five-yard dump truck using the IFB process in [email protected]. 2012.
54 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 55 Trucking USA If you bought it, a truck brought it
William A. Sterling, P.E. Sterling & Associates Greeley, Colorado
ast year I had the experience of three-ton dump trucks and specialty entirely upon trucks to distribute driving from San Diego, Calif., trucks; but I became more aware of the vital cargo. Trucks in America are to Greeley, Colo., via Interstate importance of over-the-road trucking responsible for the majority of 15 and Interstate 70. That, by on this trip. You see, I was, at least for freight movement over land, and itself, was not especially exciting or a short time, a “trucker”! are vital tools in the manufacturing, earth shattering, but I was driving a transportation and warehousing 17’ U-Haul truck full of household I decided to do some research on the industries. goods. The drive across the middle of trucking industry, mostly “over-the- Utah, my first, was one of stark beauty road trucking” and its importance to Trucks have affected the political and and hot (110 degrees). I noticed, our everyday life. economic history of the United States. as I’m sure anyone did driving the Before the invention of automobiles, Interstate, a great many semi-trucks of The trucking industry provides an most freight was moved by train or all kinds. The most unusual I saw was essential service to the American horse-drawn vehicles. Today, over a tractor pulling two other tractors economy by transporting large 63% of goods are moved by trucks; “piggy back”; all three brand new. quantities of raw materials and by comparison, rail only moves 10% finished goods over land. Retail of our freight. In modern times, We, in the public works field, stores, hospitals, gas stations, garbage railroads are primarily used to haul recognize the importance of trucks in disposal, construction sites, banks and bulk quantities of cargo over long our daily activities, from one-ton to even a clean water supply depends distances. This statistic surprised me.
Trucks were first used extensively by the military during World War I. With the increase in construction of paved roads, trucking began to be used for commerce; but with the Utilities Extension Manager tion. Performs other related duties construction of the Interstate trucks Cape Coral, FL as assigned by the City Manager’s significantly changed the way goods Office. For additional information were transported. Under the direction of the City and to apply please visit Manager’s Office, provides compre- www.capecoral.net. Over 80% of all communities rely hensive direction of the City’s water, exclusively on trucks to deliver all of sewer and secondary water infra- Senior Civil Engineer their fuel, clothing, medicine, food structure management as it relates NAI Consulting, Inc. and other consumer goods, over to the utilities extension program Cathedral City, CA eight billion tons; but we “city folk” (UEP). Prepares and administers probably don’t realize the enormity operating and capital improvement NAI Consulting, Inc., an engineering of that importance. There are over budgets for the UEP. Ensures UEP’s consulting firm serving public agen- 500,000 Interstate motor carriers on operational activities are compliant cies in Southern California, has an file. with local, state and federal regula- immediate opening for a Senior Civil tions. Administers and produces de- Engineer. Competitive salary and I found that the trucking industry sign of future utility extension proj- excellent benefits. Visit www.naicon- employs over 10 million people. In ect areas including cost estimates, sulting.com to obtain job descrip- 2006, the trucking industry employed time schedules, budget, reports and tion and application or contact NAI over 2.0 million drivers; but turnover specifications. Provides oversight of Consulting, Inc. at (760) 323-5344. is very high and the workforce is project management and construc- aging. As big as it is, the trucking
56 APWA Reporter September 2012 industry is the industry of small business, considering that 93% of Interstate motor carriers operate 20 or fewer trucks. Upon further research, I found that FedEx Freight and UPS Freight were in the Top 10 trucking firms. (It’s no wonder the U.S. Postal Service is in financial trouble.) The top trucking firm in the U.S. generated over $8.7 billion in annual revenue. The total revenue of the industry is estimated at $486 billion. The trucking industry pays an estimated $37 billion in Federal Highway taxes and uses an estimated 54 billion gallons of fuel annually.
Trucks contribute 10 percent of state vehicle miles traveled but pay 30 percent of all state highway taxes. Commercial trucks represent 10 percent of all motor vehicles registered. Only 8.5 percent of trucks were involved in fatal crashes; and in over 70 percent of truck/automobile accidents, the automobile has been found to be at fault.
Trucks transport 75% of the trade value between the U.S. and Canada and 85% between the U.S. and Mexico.
Trucks come in many different sizes and lengths: single trailer, double trailer and triple trailer (almost a train on the highway without tracks), and all huge. And that doesn’t include the common trucks we “city folk” see every day that make our deliveries. apwa international
By law, truck drivers can only spend up to 11 hours a day driving, with Public Works up to three additional hours a day Congress & Exposition engaged in various duties (including AUGUST 25 –28, 2013 :: MCCORMICK PLACE, CHICAGO, IL :: WWW.APWA.NET/CONGRESS fueling, paperwork, inspections and repairs). They spend weeks away from home, spending their time off and moves 300,000 tons of freight salute to recognize the danger and and sleeping at truck stops or rest each day. Eighty-one percent of all importance of what they do on a daily areas. Sometimes they are glorified as Colorado communities are solely basis. Hopefully, you will be better modern-day cowboys in such films as served by trucks, and trucks move informed about the trucking industry White Line Fever, Convoy and Smokey 86% of all manufactured products. and its importance. and the Bandit. So the next time you travel the Bill Sterling can be reached at sterling@ In Colorado, the trucking industry Interstate or state highways and you publicworksmanagement.com. employs over 150,000 workers see all of those trucks, give them a
56 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 57 “I’m sure we’re no can compliment high performers, Then do yourself and everyone else different than many and inspire them to do more. You a favor by calling a sober friend or other agencies but we can use the interviews to gauge how a cab. Oh, and don’t forget to wash seem to have a hard time well you are meeting employees’ your hands.” Printed on the cakes keeping some great employees; needs. Ask for their suggestions on themselves are the words “Call a the less-than-great always stay. what you and the agency can do to Ride. Get Home Safe” to visually When folks leave we do an improve. Be careful though! Don’t reinforce the message. I understand exit interview to see what they ask questions if you don’t want to the cakes cost $21 apiece and last might like to have seen done in hear the answers or plan to use the for three months. Waste of money? a different manner that might answers to make a difference. Let’s Hard to tell until the statistics are in have kept them working for us. reward the “good” employees by but Michigan didn’t lose any money This seems a little backward listening to their comments and because the federal traffic safety to me but no one here agrees building on something positive funds paid for them. Takes all kinds with me. Seems we should ask instead of wallowing in the despair of of methods to get some people’s our folks what they need or disgruntled employees on their way attention! value before they leave. Any out the door. comments?” “Aside from having “OK, now I’ve seen it a good reason not to You are so right on all! While traveling on have to mow, what several counts. It’s always vacation over the 4th of are the benefits to interesting for me to expect July holiday, my friends planting grasses native to your to get any good insight or and I stopped at a restaurant in geographic area?” feedback from an employee that is Michigan to use the facilities. walking out the door! They usually You can’t imagine how shocked There are several benefits. have either only negative things to I was to have them tell me not One is that choosing native say or want to lead you to believe to drink and drive! What’s up plants and grasses helps to they have plenty to say but you with this?” clear the air. They require didn’t do anything about it while less mowing and maintenance, they were working so why should Now that I’ve stopped reducing emissions that form they bother to tell you about it laughing, I have done ground-level ozone. In many areas, again! A recent survey of 500 U.S. some research and found an estimated 8 to 9 percent of the employees revealed what mattered that the Office of Highway volatile organic compound (VOC) most to those employees. In order Safety Planning in the Detroit area pollution comes from mowers, weed of priority they were: honesty; distributed 400 “talking” urinal cakes trimmers and other gas-powered fairness; trust; respect; dependability; to bars and restaurants in an effort to lawn and garden equipment. In collaboration; genuineness; keep drunk drivers off the roads on addition, native plants typically appreciation; and responsiveness. what is historically one of the worst require fewer pesticides, which often days of the year for drunk driving. contain VOCs, because they are Have you considered conducting The blocks are motion activated adapted to the local environment. a “stay” interview? Don’t wait for so that when someone steps near Pesticides also impact water quality employees to leave to ask them how one, they hear: “Listen up. That’s as they may run off into storm things are going. If you use regular right. I’m talking to you. Had a few sewers and pollute nearby streams, “stay” interviews to get feedback, you drinks? Maybe a few too many? lakes and rivers. Native landscaping
58 APWA Reporter September 2012 enhances property aesthetics, for the position. Bill has written reduces maintenance resources and his experience in an article in the Ask Ann promotes a quality environment. All December 2008 APWA Reporter titled Please address all inquiries to: good reasons! However, educating “Succession Planning – A Case Study” Ann Daniels your community is a big key in and you can find it in the December Director of Credentialing making the program acceptable. 2008 online issue of the magazine. APWA, 2345 Grand Blvd., Suite 700 Doesn’t matter how much money The process is a good one and the Kansas City, MO 64108-2625 you save or how you are improving article gives a good plan if you’re Fax questions to: (816) 472-1610 the environment if the plantings interested. E-mail: [email protected] look overgrown and ragged and unpleasing to the eye. Inform your residents about what you are doing; how they might do something similar on their own property; and then keep the areas you plant maintained.
“Our Director has told us he plans to retire in the next two years. We have begun thinking about his replacement but are finding that most of the qualified candidates within the organization are planning to do the same thing within five years. It seems a little late to start planning for succession when succession is here! Any suggestions?”
Your situation is a common one. Employees looking towards retirement are not always interested in taking on more responsibility. Many are not excited about the extra hours on-call or the meetings with the City Council. They enjoy what they are doing now and are gearing down instead of gearing up! And, there’s nothing wrong with that. However, it does leave the department in a quandary in some cases. William Sterling, Retired Public Works Director, Greeley, Colo., found his city in a similar position. After recruiting, internally and externally, with no success, he developed a Mentoring program. He and the City Manager sought an employee with the current ranks and recruited him
58 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 59 Products in the News
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Pro-Pak Industries: Twentieth Anniversary AEMP has launched a new educational We- binar Series. A new topic will be highlighted each month, covering the latest chal- By ingeniously developing new products from the same lenges, issues and trends faced by asset management raw materials, Pro-Pak Industries continues to evolve professionals. Each featured topic will be offered two as it celebrates 20 years in business during 2012. Presi- times, first on the second Thursday at 11:00 a.m. CST, dent/CEO Darrell G. Holmes attributes their success to and again on the fourth Thursday at noon CST. Seminars hard work, dedication and the ability to adapt to the run one hour and feature a live Q&A portion at the close ever-changing markets they serve. They now rank as one of the session. Price per seminar is $59 for members with of the largest manufacturers and suppliers of utility a discount offered on select series-based webinars. Those marking products for the construction and utility mar- interested may contact Jim Phillips at (970) 384-0510 or kets under the name of ProLine Safety Products. Util- [email protected], or visit www.aemp.org. ity marking and safety continue to be the primary focus
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66 APWA Reporter September 2012 Pot Hole Problems? Improve Bond with No Mess, No Smell Call: 9 14-636-1000 Email: [email protected] For Limited Trial Offer : www.transpo.com/BondadeOffer.html Green is the new black. Bondade ® Series 431 Perma-Shield PL is a high-performance, COST EFFECTIVE ceramic-modified epoxy lining for ductile iron and VOC COMPLIANT steel pipe. Formulated for the most aggressive sewer A World Leader in Landscape Architecture environments, it offers advanced permeation, abrasion, LASTS UP TO 85% LONGER Landscape Architecture • Planning THAN CURRENT METHODS and chemical resistance. It can withstand 2500 psi Urban Design EVALUATED, PROVEN AND hydrocleaning and its light green color makes it easy to USED BY MANY AGENCIES inspect. To get the inside story, go to: Series431.com. www.swagroup.com
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makers in their agencies. DENVER CONGRESS A TERRIFIC SHOW So, don’t miss this opportunity to advertise in the October issue which will cover highlights of APWA’s International Public Works Congress & Exposition in Anaheim. The deadline to reserve your space is September 7; the materials are due by September 10. Bonus: Advertise and we’ll give you a free listing in our “Products in the News” column! Call Amanda or Kristen at (800) 800-0341.
66 APWA Reporter September 2012 September 2012 APWA Reporter 67 UPCOMING APWA EVENTS International Public Works Congress & Exposition North American Snow Conference 2013 Aug. 25-28 Chicago, IL 2013 Apr. 7-10 Charlotte, NC 2014 Aug. 17-20 Toronto, ON For more information, contact Brenda Shaver at (800) 848-APWA or send 2015 Aug. 30-Sept. 2 Phoenix, AZ e-mail to [email protected]. For more information, contact Dana Priddy at (800) 848-APWA National Public Works Week: May 19-25, 2013 or send e-mail to [email protected]. Always the third full week in May. For more information, contact Jon Dilley at (800) 848-APWA or send e-mail to [email protected].
SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 4-7 Floodplain Management Association Annual Conference, 3-5 WaterSmart Innovations Conference and Exposition, Las Vegas, NV, Sacramento, CA, www.floodplain.org/conference.php www.watersmartinnovations.com
11-14 American Road & Transportation Builders Association National 3-6 National Council of Structural Engineers Association Annual Convention, Memphis, TN, www.artba.org/news-events/artba-events/ Conference, St. Louis, MO, www.ncsea.com
11-14 Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations Annual 7-10 98th Annual ICMA Annual Conference, Phoenix, AZ, www.icma.org Conference, Saratoga Springs, NY, www.ampo.org 18 APWA Click, Listen & Learn, “Utilizing an Incident 13 APWA Click, Listen & Learn, “Trees & Municipal Command System for Public Works,” (800) 848-APWA, Infrastructure – Creating a Sustainable Alliance,” www.apwa.net (800) 848-APWA, www.apwa.net 21-26 National Safety Council Annual Congress & Expo, Orlando, FL, 16-21 North American Hazardous Materials Management Association’s www.congress.nsc.org Annual Conference, Universal City, CA, www.nahmma.org 24-28 2012 Society of American Foresters National Convention, 19-22 2012 Association of Water Technologies Annual Convention & Spokane, WA, www.safnet.org Exposition, Palm Springs, CA, www.awt.org
When you contact an advertiser regarding a product, please tell them you saw their ad in the APWA Reporter. Thanks! – The Editor Legend: IFC = Inside Front Cover; IBC = Inside Back Cover; BC = Back Cover
ARI, p. 39 Everblades, p. 67 Pine Valley Eco Products, Stan Design Inc., p. 66 p. 66 www.arifleet.com www.everblades.com www.stanjacks.com www.pinevalleyeco.net
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