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 United States Forest Service (USFS) for Federal Excess Personal Property (FEPP)
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 USFS. The items available to the City of Merced are to be used for supporting the city’s fire protection of the community for wildland fire hazards and incidents. The Federal Excess Personal Property (FEPP) 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 wildland fire protection needs.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Adopting MOU between City of Merced and CAL FIRE for FEPP; and,
B. Adopting Resolution 2022-67, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Merced, California, authorizing application for Federal Excess Personal Property (FEPP) program in Accordance with United States Forest Service Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act (CFAA) of 1978; and,
C. Authorizing the City Manager or the Deputy City Manager to execute any 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 USFS serves to support the local community for wildfire preparedness. The items available to the City of Merced are to be used for supporting the city’s fire protection of the community for wildland fire hazards and incidents. The Federal Excess Personal Property (FEPP) 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 wildland fire protection needs. Agencies who participate within the FEPP are given an opportunity to search for federal excess rolling 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 USFS green, and maintain the rolling stock while it is in service. If any rolling stock is involved in an accident it is the responsibility of the cooperator to report damage greater than $350 to the State of California Department of General Services. When rolling stock is transferred to the DMV the USFS is to remain as the lien holder.
While the City of Merced and the Fire Department have a purchase plan for vehicles and equipment in place, the FEPP 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. Licensing, vehicle transfer fees, and any other ancillary costs will be absorbed under the existing operating budget.
ATTACHMENTS
1. FEPP Contract MERCED.STATE OF CALIFORNIA
2. Resolution 2022-67