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Richfield City Council Agenda
January 27, 2026 -- 6:00 PM
Richfield Municipal Center
Council Chambers
6700 Portland Avenue South
1. Call to Order
2. Item Discussion
a. Review and discuss the Fleet Electrification Analysis conducted by the fleet
electrification consultant Sawatch Labs.
3. Adjournment
Auxiliary aids for individuals with disabilities are available upon request. Requests must be made at least 96 hours in advance to the
City Clerk at 612-861-9739.
Includes Materials - Materials relating to these agenda items can be found in the Council Chambers Agenda Packet book located by
the entrance. The complete Council Agenda Packet is available electronically on the City of Richfield website.
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City Council Meeting 1/27/2026
Agenda Section:
Item Discussion
Agenda Item: 2.a.
Report Prepared By:
Chris Link, Deputy Public Works Director
Department Director:
Kristin Asher, Public Works Director
Item for Consideration:
Review and discuss the Fleet Electrification Analysis conducted by the fleet
electrification consultant Sawatch Labs.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This study was identified during development of the Strategic Plan and was initiated in
pursuit of the Sustainable Infrastructure strategic priority. The analysis focused on
vehicles within the Richfield fleet that have viable electric vehicle (EV) alternatives. 68
vehicles were studied, of which 24 were recommended as good candidates for EV
replacement. An analysis of the City's infrastructure and charging capabilities was also
conducted and will be discussed.
Staff will present:
• Findings of the study;
• Staff recommendations; and
• Next steps.
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Review and discuss the Fleet Electrification Analysis conducted by the fleet
electrification consultant Sawatch Labs. Staff is seeking direction on this topic
which will inform upcoming and future budget discussions related to fleet
purchasing, facilities infrastructure, and interdepartmental fleet charges.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT
EQUITABLE OR STRATEGIC CONSIDERATIONS OR IMPACTS
This study was identified during development of the Strategic Plan and was initiated in
pursuit of the Sustainable Infrastructure strategic priority.
POLICIES (RESOLUTIONS, ORDINANCES, REGULATIONS, STATUTES, ETC.)
CRITICAL TIMING ISSUES
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• EV fleet purchasing and charging capacity infrastructure upgrades will span
multiple budget cycles.
• Preparation work for the 2026 Revised/2027 Proposed budget will begin in
Spring 2026 and direction is needed in order to consider implementation in the
next budget cycle.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
• The transition to EVs will require new fleet purchases which will be an additional
charge to the Central Garage budget.
• Charging capabilities and upgrades will need to be in place at various City
facilities before EVs can be purchased and deployed.
LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS
ALTERNATIVE RECOMMENDATION(S)
ATTACHMENTS
1. 1-22-26 Work Session PPT
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EV Fleet Analysis Results
Chris Link, Deputy Public Works Director
Rachel Lindholm, Sustainability Coordinator
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Background
• Strategic Plan priority
• Climate Action Plan action
• Other cities’ progress
• Environmental and potential financial
benefits
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The Study
• Contracted with Sawatch Labs to conduct
a study from mid-Oct 2024 – Jan 2025
– 68 vehicles studied
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Results
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Primary Parking Locations
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Staff Recommendation/Phased
Approach
• Charging infrastructure
– 3 Level II Charging Stations
– Municipal Center (2) and PW (1)
• Change in Purchasing/Lease
– Inspections: 6 vehicles
– Public Works: 4 vehicles
– Recreation: 2 vehicles
Rightsizing vehicles when appropriate
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Change in Purchasing
Current Procedures
• Repurposing PS Vehicles
• Low Resale/Auction
Lease to Own
• High upfront cost
• Cost Flatten overtime
• Higher Resale
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Budget considerations
• Cost of vehicle replacement: electric
vehicle vs. internal combustion engine
(traditional vehicle)
• Cost to install a charger
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