Report Prepared by: Derek Parker, Fire Chief, Fire Dept.
Title
SUBJECT: Approval of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Between the City of Merced and the State of California for a Cooperative Agreement with the Department of Defense (DoD) for Firefighter Property (FFP) Program
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City of Merced and the State of California acting by and through the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) as an agent of the DoD. The items available to the City of Merced are to be used for supporting the city’s fire protection, emergency medical, hazardous materials, and other All-Risk hazards. The Firefighter Property (FFP) program is administered within the State of California by CAL FIRE and the City of Merced and the Fire Department have been sponsored by the local Ranger Unit Chief, Mike Van Loben Sels. Items available are equipment, vehicles, and supplies to support the local community’s All-Risk hazard needs.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Adopting MOU between City of Merced and CAL FIRE for Firefighter Property; and,
B. Adopting Resolution 2022-65, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Merced, California, authorizing application for Firefighter Property (FFP) program in accordance under Title 10 United States Code 2576b; and,
C. Authorizing the City Manager or Deputy City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommended by staff; or,
2. Approve, subject to other than recommended by staff; or,
3. Deny; or,
4. Refer to staff for reconsideration of specific items; or,
5. Continue to a future meeting.
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 200 - Powers
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 405 - Powers Vested in the City Council
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the FY 22/23 budget.
DISCUSSION
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City of Merced and the State of California, acting by and through the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), as an agent of the Department of Defense serves to support the local community for All-Risk hazard preparedness. The items available to the City of Merced are to be used for supporting the city’s fire protection of the community for All-Risk hazards and incidents. The Firefighter Property (FFP) program is administered within the State of California by CAL FIRE and the City of Merced and the Fire Department have been sponsored by the local Ranger Unit Chief, Mike Van Loben Sels.
Items available are equipment, vehicles, and supplies to support the local community’s All-Risk hazard needs. Agencies who participate within the FFP are given an opportunity to search for federal excess stock. There is no charge for a cooperator, in this case the City of Merced, to take possession of an item however the item is on permanent loan. If an item of rolling stock is reassigned it is the responsibility of the cooperator to register the vehicle with the California Department of Vehicles, remove any federal markings, paint a vehicle if the vehicle is in DoD markings, and maintain the rolling stock while it is in service.
While the City of Merced and the Fire Department have a purchase plan for vehicles and equipment in place, the FFP is a cost-effective way to support the local community with purpose driven equipment at no cost. This can be utilized in a stopgap situation to fill a void in equipment inventory if needed.
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
No appropriation of funds is needed. Sufficient funds are available in the operating budget to absorb costs of vehicle registration and changes to paint and markings.
ATTACHMENTS
1. FFP Application MERCED
2. FFP Contract MERCED.STATE OF CALIFORNIA
3. Resolution 22-65
4. CAL FIRE FFP Guide FINAL (2021)
5. Merced City FD Ltr