Newport gets deal on wheels

Greg Risling

NEWPORT BEACH -- A partnership between several cities and a major

auto manufacturer will bring eight new trucks to the Newport coastline.

The sponsorship agreement signed by Newport Beach, San Clemente, Seal

Beach and the state’s Department of Parks and Recreation will make

Chevrolet vehicles the official marine safety vehicle of Orange Coast

beaches.

Under the terms, the city will pay 10% of the vehicle’s lease value --

about $30 to $40 a month -- in exchange for using the trucks. The trucks

can be purchased or returned after the first two years of the agreement.

The trucks will be used primarily by the city’s lifeguards as they

patrol the shoreline.

“Our department doesn’t directly benefit from the cost savings, but

the city certainly does,” said Lt. John Blauer, community relations

officer for the Fire and Marine Department.

Beachgoers will benefit, as well, he said.

“These are brand-new vehicles that will help limit the time spent on

maintenance,” Blauer said.

In return for the special pay agreement, Chevrolet has been given the

right to display their banners and signage on vehicles and at special

events. Many of those involved in the partnership attended an event this

week at Salt Creek Regional Park to announce the deal.

The American auto company becomes the latest corporation to work a

deal with local municipalities. Earlier this year, Coca-Cola packaged a

proposal to make the soda the official soft drink in Huntington Beach.