KANSAS CITY, MO - Sam Swearngin has been named fleet administrator for Kansas City's General Services Department. Swearngin previously served as fleet superintendent for the City for more than 20 years.

As fleet superintendent, Swearngin was responsible for the City's alternative fuel program, among other duties. In 2007, he received the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Institute's Oxygen Award for taking concrete steps to improve the City's air quality through the use of alternative transportation fuels. Swearngin's contributions in that area also led to the City being ranked as the No. 3 city in the country for the use of alternative fuels in 2007.  

"Sam has kept the City at the forefront of ecologically friendly fleet practices, such as alternative fuels," said City Manager Wayne Cauthen. "His knowledge of 'green' practices and his experience with the City will allow us to cut costs, improve efficiency, and continue to implement sustainable solutions."

"Kansas City is facing the same budget shortfalls as a lot of other municipalities across the nation. So, you have to change to keep the fleet rolling," said Swearngin, who has already implemented a major restructure of the Fleet Division to cut costs and lower overhead. "With all of the challenges facing the city as a result of the national economic downturn, I remain excited about the opportunity to make a difference, especially in the area of alternative fuels, at such a momentous time in the city's history."

Swearngin is a certified automotive fleet manager with the National Association of Fleet Administrators and former chair of the Association's Mid-America Chapter. He currently serves as the Missouri chair for the Kansas City Regional Clean Cities Coalition. In addition, Swearngin serves on the Metropolitan Energy Center's Board of Directors and on the Automotive Advisory Committee at Longview Community College.

Swearngin, who is a life-long resident of Kansas City, received an associate's degree in automotive technology from Longview College and a bachelor's degree in business administration from Park University.

A new fleet superintendent has not been determined, said Swearngin.