A review has given a tick to Moyne Shire's Light Fleet Policy but not without a cautionary warning from one councillor.
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The policy's four-year review has been completed and was approved unanimously by Moyne councillors at their September meeting.
But while he gave the policy the thumbs up, Cr Jim Doukas urged fellow councillors to stay alert and retain a local government voice in future decision-making.
"Its a policy we have to have, we've got to keep on top of our fleet to make sure its is up to standard and the policy is fit for purpose," Cr Doukas said.
"But I do note that there is a piece (in the policy) about minimising our CO2 emissions and it's all done by the government.
"So the government is starting to tell us what we should and shouldn't do, so just thought I'd highlight that fact.
"I know its alright for council because we can afford to do that, but what's the next step?"
A key addition to the latest version of the policy is the inclusion of of this clause:
"To purchase passenger vehicles with the intent of minimizing CO2 emissions, with a preference for vehicles to have a tail pipe CO2 emission of less than 192 CO2 g/km as per the Australian Government Climate Change Authority standards, effective from 2018. This is to ensure that Council is committed to global concerns around the climate emergency which also stipulates targets reducing carbon dioxide emissions from new light vehicles to 105g/km in 2025."
Speaking of behalf of approving the reviewed policy, Cr Damian Gleeson said while Moyne may never reach state government's aim to go all electric, it needed to be progressive.
"Everything we do now, we have to look forward in a sense that every decision we make should be taking into consideration the environment," Cr Gleeson said.
"Its our responsibility to do whatever we can, and if we have to have a responsible fleet then that's what we should do.
"As long as the vehicles we provide for our staff are suitable for the purpose required."
A key point in the light fleet policy focuses on the behaviour of the drivers of the vehicles.
The policy states all fleet drivers mus demonstrate council values reflected in the policy that would ensure they are positive role models to other staff ,members.
Drivers are expected to keep the vehicles in a clean condition and are required to meet the workplace drink and drug policy in place for all Moyne employees