Editor, Commonwealth:
Regarding the article “Vehicle purchases moving forward” (March 13):
Contemporary governments stopped procuring vehicles for elected and appointed officials many years ago. Law enforcement and emergency management are the only exceptions.
The total cost of car allowance versus county government procurement and ownership is significant. Maintenance, fuel, repair and insurance are no longer a county expense. Mileage reimbursement is offered for travel outside of the county on official business.
Here’s the interesting part: I still own and drive the same car I bought when I received my first allowance. It’s almost 11 years old with 190,000 miles, but in immaculate condition. I am more meticulous with my car than I was with the new Crown Victoria I received every 24 months.
Most importantly, stewardship of tax dollars yields more opportunity for service delivery to the supervisor’s constituency.
Finally, Fortune 500 companies stopped operating fleets nearly 20 years ago and instead began paying car allowances, and they are for- profit. Enough said!
W.A. Hopkins Jr.
San Francisco
