Ohio Department Of Natural Resources Fleet Management Performance Audit Released

Operating by data-driven fleet management standards could generate financial gains of more than $1 million for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), according to an interim report released by Auditor of State Dave Yost.

"The numbers prove up the truth of the matter," Yost said. "A fleet must be managed by stringent, data-driven standards in order to remain economical. I applaud ODNR for its quick implementation of recommended changes and believe it could soon maintain an unrivaled fleet."

"We appreciate the time and expertise the Auditor’s Office has brought to this matter, as we are always striving to better serve Ohioans and save taxpayer dollars," said ODNR Director James Zehringer. "ODNR has already initiated some of the recommendations, and we look forward to the continued cooperation in identifying ways to better streamline processes and operate more efficiently."

ODNR manages a massive, statewide fleet of 1,600 vehicles. Each of the agency’s divisions (Parks, Wildlife, Forestry, etc.) maintains its own fleet, but works with the Office of General Services, Fleet Management to develop annual fleet plans. Additionally, a central office passenger pool fleet is available for any division to use.

The total financial gains of this report include $911,777 identified as ongoing annual savings and $109,706 identified as one-time savings.