Council weighs GPS tracking for village vehicles; HR committee to refine policy

South Russell councilors on Sept. 22 discussed a proposed amendment to the village vehicle policy that would require GPS tracking on village vehicles not already equipped with telematics. The HR committee presented the proposal and said a basic fleet‑tracking service runs about $22 per month per unit; council members asked the HR committee to refine the policy and provide updated cost estimates.

Proponents said GPS and telematics can help respond to resident complaints about routes or speeds, assist in accident investigations and provide operational data such as mileage. Some council members said the policy should treat department vehicles consistently and gave the HR committee direction to produce a finalized draft to include in a future council packet. The committee agreed to amend the draft policy and return it with precise cost estimates and language clarifying which department heads may authorize vehicle use for commuting or overnight possession.