BACKGROUND:
The fire department operates three front-line paramedic ambulances, one out of each fire station. Two ambulances were ordered in June of 2021 to replace aging units. Both new units were delayed several months due to a Ford recall. This delay has put a significant strain on the entire ambulance fleet which has accelerated the need for the third ambulance replacement. The third ambulance was originally slated for replacement in 2023. Upon delivery of the third ambulance the remaining units will be surveyed to assess their suitability as back-up units. It is likely that two of the four reserve ambulances will be declared surplus and will be sold at auction.
DISCUSSION:
As reported to you in 2021, the fire department had planned for the replacement of two frontline ambulance units in this current budget, and as part of the original agreement with EVS, Cathedral City had reserved the ability to purchase additional units at the reduced cost similar to the 2021 models. To add to this opportunity, a Ford chassis has become available early at the ambulance manufacturer. Republic Emergency Vehicle Services is offering Cathedral City priority on this ambulance as stated in our agreement from 2021.
This purchase was requested in the City’s Five-Year plan and was to be included in the next two-year budget. This would allow the fire department to keep three identical ambulances in the fleet and lower anticipated maintenance costs for the next several years. Just like the other two ambulances ordered in 2021, this one will also be able to be repowered down the line in leu of a complete replacement.
The department did not obtain updated bids as the purchase price remains near the same as in 2021. Bids were obtained in 2021, which are still valid.
The fire department would like to move forward with the purchase from Republic Emergency Vehicle Services immediately to secure the available chassis. We have a commitment that production can start within a month and that they can provide the fire department with the new ambulance by June of 2023.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Fiscal impact to include:
1. 2022 Medix Ambulance MSV 170”. $277,955.40*
2. One PESEC compatible dual band mobile radio and install. $6,474.49*
3. Two Motorola APX8000 Portable radios with charger install. $21,562.49*
4. Riverside County Fire Agencies Frequency programming. $2,000.00
5. 5% Contingency $15,399.62
Total $323,392.00
Funding to come from the Equipment Replacement Fund. * Indicates California State tax included.