DATE: JANUARY 27, 2026
DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT
FROM: SAMUEL KLEMEK, FIRE CHIEF
TITLE: FIRE STATION ALERTING SYSTEMS PURCHASE AND CIP FUNDS TRANSFER REQUEST RECOMMENDED MOTION:
A motion to approve a resolution authorizing:
The reallocate budget to CIP 9987 (Fire Station Alerting Systems) in the amount of $202,464 from CIP 9541 (Fire Station Repairs) and $133,744 from CIP 9984 (Fire Training Tower).
The Purchasing Agent to complete the direct purchase of five (5) Fire Station Alerting Systems, including equipment and installation from US Digital Designs (Honeywell), in an amount not to exceed $429,857.10, which includes a 3% contingency, funded from CIP 9987.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The Salinas Fire Department relies on fire station alerting systems to ensure immediate, clear, and reliable notification of emergency incidents. The current station alerting infrastructure is outdated, lacks redundancy, and does not meet current operational or safety standards. Approval of this purchase will modernize alerting capabilities across fire stations 2 through 6, reduce response delays, and enhance operational reliability using funds already approved in the Capital Improvement Program.
The Fire Station Alerting Systems project is a priority public safety initiative and requires additional funding to be completed. Approval of the accompanying resolution will authorize the transfer of available Capital Improvement Program funds to fully fund the project and proceed with procurement.
BACKGROUND:
Fire station alerting systems are critical infrastructure that support timely emergency response. The Salinas Fire Department’s existing alerting systems are aging and no longer provide the level of reliability and backup needed for modern emergency operations. This increases the risk of missed or delayed alerts, particularly during overnight hours or in high-noise station environments. The Salinas Fire Department received a quote from US Digital Designs in the amount of $417,336.99.
The proposed system provides clear, immediate alerts with battery backup and built-in safeguards to ensure continued operation during power or network interruptions. Standardizing alerting systems across multiple fire stations improves consistency and maintains efficiency. Modern features, including visual message displays, room-level alerts, and Flex Alert devices, enhance situational awareness for on-duty personnel. Replacing outdated equipment reduces the risk of system failure during critical emergency responses.
The purchase will be made through Sourcewell cooperative purchasing, which satisfies competitive procurement requirements and is authorized pursuant to Salinas Municipal Code Section 12-25.
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).
CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE §84308 APPLIES:
Yes
STRATEGIC PLAN INITIATIVE:
This agenda item supports the City Council’s Public Safety goal by strengthening the reliability of response operations and ensuring consistent emergency services for the community.
DEPARTMENTAL COORDINATION:
The Fire Department will coordinate with the Finance, Legal and Administration Departments through the purchasing process and to ensure alignment with City priorities.
FISCAL AND SUSTAINABILITY IMPACT:
Fund
General Ledger Number
(Operating/CIP)
General Ledger Account Name
Remaining Budget Appropriation
Amount Requested
1200
45.9987-66.5400
Capital Outlays Equipment
$93,615
$429,857.10
1100
45.9541-66.3010
Capital Outlays Remodeling & Alteration
$296,463
($202,464)
1000
45.9984-63.6010
Capital Outlays Outside Services Other Outside Services $100,000
($100,000)
1200
45.9984-63.6010
Capital Outlays Outside Services Other Outside Services $33,743
($33,744)
The total cost of the Fire Station Alerting Systems project is $417,336.99. A 3% contingency in the amount of $12,520.11 is included, resulting in a total not-to-exceed amount of $429,857.10.
To fully fund this priority project, the Fire Department is requesting approval to reallocate $202,464 from CIP 9541 (Fire Station Repairs) and $133,744 from CIP 9984 (Fire Training Tower) to CIP 9987 (Fire Station Alerting Systems). These transfers will provide sufficient funding to complete the project.
ATTACHMENTS:
Resolution
Quote
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