DATE: AUGUST 20, 2024
DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT
FROM: SAMUEL KLEMEK, FIRE CHIEF
TITLE: ACCEPTANCE OF THE CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE WATER
CONSERVATION REBATE PROGRAM AWARD FOR THE PURCHASE OF A DRAFTS UNIT RECOMMENDED MOTION:
A motion to approve a resolution:
Accepting the California Water Service Water Conservation Rebate Program award in the amount of $124,965.94; and Authorizing the Purchasing Agent to complete the direct purchase of a Direct Recirculating Apparatus Firefighter Training & Sustainability (DRAFTS) unit from Pump Pods USA, in an amount not to exceed $124,965.94.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The California Water Service Conservation works proactively with fire departments throughout its service areas to provide grants that assist firefighters with the tools they need for training and firefighting, while also keeping water-wise practices at the forefront. The Salinas Fire Department applied for the program and was awarded the total cost to purchase a unit to capture and re-use millions of gallons of water used for pump operator training. The unit would allow the SFD to provide members with realistic, hose/nozzle training and pump operator training while saving approximately 5,830,500 gallons/year.
BACKGROUND:
Since 2022, the Salinas Fire Department has been diligently working towards recruitment and training efforts, increasing the size of its recruit academies and required training hours. During the initial training, recruits are required to complete a week-long Pump Operator training and 30 additional pump evolutions. Additionally, line personnel complete 16 hours of training every month, with most drills involving flowing water. The standard pump evolution/wet drill includes securing a water supply, stretching attack lines, and flowing water into the tower or an open field. These drills flow anywhere from 150 to 1500 gallons per minute and can last several minutes to several hours. While these drills use a significant amount of water, they are the only method available to provide realistic training for firefighters.
The Salinas Fire Department is extremely cognizant of water's value and does everything possible to minimize usage. During pump operator training, these drills are conducted in an open field where the water can seep back into the ground. However, many drills need to occur at the drill tower, resulting in millions of gallons wasted.
The Department requested Cal Water's assistance in purchasing a DRAFTS unit. This unit will allow the department to provide the necessary training to our members while saving millions of gallons of water each year. The DRAFTS unit from PumpPods USA would enable us to offer realistic hose/nozzle and pump operator training. This unit would be housed at our Training Station #3, located at 827 Abbott Pl, Salinas, CA. PumpPods USA is the sole manufacturer of this equipment.
CEQA CONSIDERATION:
Not a Project. The City of Salinas has determined that the proposed action is not a project as defined by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (CEQA Guidelines Section 15378).
STRATEGIC PLAN INITIATIVE:
Adoption of this resolution supports the City Council’s Strategic Goal of Public Safety.
DEPARTMENTAL COORDINATION:
The Salinas Fire Department will need the assistance of the Finance department to appropriately document the award budget and assist with the purchasing process.
FISCAL AND SUSTAINABILITY IMPACT:
The following table identifies the fund and appropriation amount of the award.
Fund/
Appropriation
Appropriation Name
Total Appropriation
Amount for recommendation
FY 24-25 Operating Budget Page (online)
Last Budget Action (Date/Resolution)
3117.45.7106
Other Reimbursements – Capital Outlays Equipment
$124,965.94
ATTACHMENTS:
Award Letter
DRAFTS unit Quote
Resolution
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