Report Prepared by: Casey Wilson, Battalion Chief, Fire Department
Title
SUBJECT: Waiving the Competitive Bidding Requirement and Approval of Professional Services Agreement with San Bernardino Regional Emergency Training Center for Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Part 139 Live Fire Training
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers waiving the competitive bidding requirement and approving a professional services agreement with San Bernardino Regional Emergency Training Center for Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Part 139 Live Fire Training.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Waiving the City’s competitive bidding requirement as permitted by Merced Municipal Code Section 3.04.210 due sole sourcing since SBRETC is the only facility in California capable of providing this training; and,
B. Approving Professional Services Agreement with San Bernardino Regional Emergency Training Center for Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Part 139 Live Fire Training in the amount not to exceed $56,145; 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. Refer back to staff; or,
3. Deny; or,
4. Take no action.
AUTHORITY
Merced Municipal Code, Chapter 3.04.020 and 3.04.210
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
Public Safety as provided for in the FY 22/23 Adopted Budget
DISCUSSION
Keeping our firefighters trained is critical to protecting our community and keeping firefighters safe. The Training needs of the fire department continue to increase with the specialization of responses. The Merced Yosemite Regional Airport has an Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) truck that responds from Fire Station 52 for aircraft emergencies on the airfield. Live fire training opportunities are not readily available in the local area and the fire department has to send its members away for training. It has been in excess of 10 years since our firefighters have received the ARFF live fire training. Waiver of the competitive bidding requirement is necessary due to the limited facilities capable of providing this training. City Council previously approved the acceptance of FY21 Assistance to Firefighter Grant Funding (AFG) on 9/6/2022 which provides funding for this training.
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
The cost associated with this professional services agreement is funded through FEMA FY21 Assistance to Firefighter Grant. The FY21 Assistance to Firefighter Grant does require 10% matching fund from the City. There is sufficient funding within the Fiscal Year 22-23 budget to cover the match requirements.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Agreement for Professional Services with San Bernardino Regional Emergency Training Center