Staff Report
City Council
Item No. {{section.number}}.H
Meeting Date: August 14, 2024
From: Michael Contreras, Fire Chief
Title: Acceptance of a CERT Grant from the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) to Update the City’s CERT Trailer and Equipment RECOMMENDATION:
To accept a grant from the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) in the amount of $25,000 to update the city’s CERT trailer and equipment.
BACKGROUND:
The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program educates volunteers about disaster preparedness for hazards that may occur in our city. CERT trains volunteers in basic disaster response skills.
As part of the department's Community Risk Reduction program, there has been extra emphasis on community emergency response. CERT is a key part of the city's emergency preparedness.
DISCUSSION:
The CERT program is a part of the city's overall community risk reduction program. The city applied for and received a grant for $25,000 from Cal OES. The funds will be used to update the city's CERT trailer and equipment.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Acceptance of the grant will require both an expenditure and revenue budget adjustment of $25,000 to the Fire Department Special Revenue Grant Fund (259) in the FY 2024/2025 budget. There is no effect on the General Fund.
FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN:
Goal D – INNOVATION
Objective: Cathedral City continually focuses on improving service delivery and customer experiences by successfully leveraging technology and creative initiatives to improve public services, public safety, and stimulate economic growth.
D-7 Implement innovative community-based Fire Prevention programs regarding Drowning, Smoke Alarm Installation, Paramedic Services, Fall Prevention, and CPR.
Goal E - SAFETY
Objective: Cathedral City is safe for all who live, work, visit, and play in our community.
E-4 Strengthen the City's ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters by reviewing and updating the City's Emergency Operations Plans through annual training sessions and tabletop exercises.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Grant Award Letter - Listos California CERT Support Grant Program, Grant Subaward #: LC23 01 6320