Performance Audit No. 1

State Auditor Brian Sonntag has produced the first long-awaited performance audit, as authorized by voters through Initiative 900, and the findings, if followed, could save taxpayers as much as $21 million over the next couple decades, Sonntag says. The audit, of the state motor pool, itself cost $114,000, and that sounds darn right cost-effective. Among the conclusions:

The Motor Pool has 113 underused vehicles that should be sold or reassigned.The pool's rental rates do not cover its operating expenses. And the pool's method of purchasing vehicles results in excess interest costs.

Of 1,470 vehicles, 1,300 are permanently assigned to various state agencies. On average, the state purchases 280 vehicles each year, and the pool has grown from 1,283 vehicles in 2001 to 1,470 in 2006. Cutting back as recommended will save $1.5 million annually, says the auditor. Hear hear.