Published in Las Cruces Bulletin 10.21.22
By Cassie McClure
Las Cruces Utilities (LCU) focuses on enhancing efficiency at all levels. For its Solid Waste line of business, being more efficient meant looking at one of its most used and most repaired resources– its trucks. Staff under the City of Las Cruces (City) Fleet line of business had previously repaired these trucks. To make in-house fixes more cohesive and efficient and save money, those fleet employees have been welcomed as new yet highly experienced members of the LCU team.
“The operational decision was made to move the Solid Waste Fleet program under the Utilities Department to streamline the process,” said LCU Deputy Director Solid Waste Carl Pierce. Three mechanics, a welder, an interim Solid Waste fleet supervisor, a parts supply clerk, and vehicle service worker moved to work directly under LCU in August.
“As we continue to face economic times of rising inflation, the cost for parts, and the parts shortage, it is meaningful to review workflow to make operative changes that enhance the department’s efficiency,” said Pierce. He anticipates new opportunities to use advanced machinery and train staff to work on specialized equipment in the Solid Waste fleet shop.
“The leadership of both the City Manager, who manages the City’s entire fleet, and the LCU administration supported moving the fleet for them to be the most effective while saving time and the potential cost of repairs,” he said.
“We have dedicated staff with years of experience that ensures the repair of refuse trucks and equipment are ready for the Solid Waste staff,” said LCU Interim Solid Waste Fleet Supervisor Adrian Carabajal. “The staff has supported the change, and the merger seems like a natural progression, with good things to come.”
LCU – Your Utility Connection. Customer Central can be reached at 575-541-2111 from 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. LCU provides clean, safe, and reliable services to Las Cruces residents and businesses. Learn more at: las-cruces.org/180/Utilities
For emergencies, call Dispatch at 575-526-0500.
CAPTION:
PHOTO 1: The LCU Fleet team: Mechanics Anthony Luna and Carlos Araujo, Interim Supervisor Adrian Carabajal, Parts Supply Clerk Kaishah Reese, Service Worker Ariana Alvarado, Mechanic Steve Benavidez, and Welder Tony Uribe.