Salinas City Council
June 16, 2026

RESOLUTION NO. (N.C.S)

A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE

CITY OF SALINAS AND SOUTH BAY CONSERVATION RESOURCES, LLC FOR THE PURCHASE OF 9.7 SPARLING RANCH CONSERVATION CREDITS IN THE AMOUNT OF $582,000 FOR THE BORONDA ROAD CONGESTION RELIEF PROJECT, PHASE 2B
WHEREAS, during the environmental phase of the Boronda Road Congestion Relief Project, the United States Army Corps of Engineers consulted with the US Fish and Wildlife Service for a Biological Opinion of the Project; and
WHEREAS, the US Fish and Wildlife Service has determined that the area of land impacted by the Project is considered a permanent loss of habitat for the California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service issued a revised Biological Opinion that contains environmental measures to alleviate effects to California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders; and
WHEREAS, the revised Biological Opinion stated that the City will compensate for the permanent loss of upland California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander habitat by purchasing credits from Sparling Ranch Conservation Bank; and WHEREAS, Sparling Ranch Conservation Bank is a US Fish and Wildlife Service and California Department of Fish and Wildlife approved conservation bank in good standing for its credits for sale as compensation for the loss of habitat for the California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolution No. 22955, on May 7, 2024 City Council approved the purchase of 11.06 credits from Sparkling Ranch Conservation Bank for Phases 1 and 2a for a total of $608,300.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Salinas City Council approves the Agreement between the City of Salinas and South Bay Conservation Resources, LLC for the Sale of Conservation Credits in the amount of $582,000 to compensate for the loss of habitat for the California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander impacted by the Boronda Road Congestion Relief Project Phase 2b; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Manager is hereby authorized and directed, for and on behalf of the City of Salinas, and as its act and deed, to execute the attached Purchase Agreement; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Manager is authorized to execute modifications to the Agreement and to take any additional action that may be necessary to effectuate the intent of this resolution.

PASSED AND APPROVED this 16th day of June 2026, by the following vote:
984

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

APPROVED:

Dennis Donohue, Mayor
ATTEST:

Patricia M. Soratos, City Clerk
985
Agreement for Sale of Conservation Credits
This Agreement is entered into this day of , 2026, by and between South Bay Conservation Resources, LLC, a California limited liability company (Bank Sponsor) and City of Salinas (Project Applicant), jointly referred to as the “Parties,” as follows:

RECITALS
A. The Bank Sponsor has developed the Sparling Ranch Conservation Bank (Bank) located in Santa Clara and San Benito Counties, California; and
B. The Bank was approved by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (Department) on June 13, 2017, and is currently in good standing with the Service and Department; and
C. The Bank has received approval from the Service and Department to offer California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense) and California red-legged frog (Rana draytonii) credits for sale as compensation for the loss of California tiger salamander and/or California red-legged frog habitat through the Sparling Ranch Conservation Bank Enabling Agreement (Bank Agreement); and D. Project Applicant is seeking to implement the project described on Exhibit “A” attached hereto (Project), which would unavoidably and adversely impact California tiger salamander and/or California red-legged frog, and seeks to compensate for the loss of California tiger salamander and/or California redlegged frog habitat by purchasing Conservation Credits from Bank Sponsor; and E. Project Applicant has been authorized by the Department File No. 2080-2023-015-04, Service File No. 2022-0079978-S7-001, USACE File No SPN 2017-00402 to purchase from the Bank Sponsor 9.7 multi-species California tiger salamander upland habitat and California red-legged frog credits upon confirmation by the Bank Sponsor of credit availability/adequate balance of credits remaining for sale; and F. Project Applicant desires to purchase from Bank Sponsor, and Bank Sponsor desires to sell to Project Applicant 9.7 multi-species California tiger salamander upland habitat and California red-legged frog credits;
Now, therefor, the parties agree as follows:

1. Bank Sponsor hereby sells to Project Applicant and Project Applicant hereby purchases from Bank Sponsor 9.7 multi-species California tiger salamander upland habitat and California red-legged frog credits for the purchase price of $582,000. The Bank Sponsor will then deliver to Project Applicant an executed Bill of Sale in the manner and form as attached hereto and marked Exhibit “B”. The purchase price for said credits shall be paid by cashier’s check or, at the option of Bank Sponsor, wire transfer of funds according to written instructions by Bank Sponsor to Project Applicant.

2. The sale and transfer herein is not intended as a sale or transfer to Project Applicant of a security, license, lease, easement, or possessory or non-possessory interest in real property, nor the granting of any interest of the foregoing.

3. Project Applicant shall have no obligation whatsoever by reason of the purchase of the Conservation Credits, to support, pay for, monitor, report on, sustain, continue in perpetuity, or otherwise be obligated or liable for the success or continued expense or maintenance in perpetuity of the credits sold, or the Bank. Pursuant to the Bank Agreement and any amendments thereto, Bank Sponsor shall monitor and make reports to the Service and Department on the status of any Conservation Credits sold to Project Applicant. Bank Sponsor shall be fully and completely responsible for satisfying any and all conditions 986
placed on the Bank or the Conservation Credits by the Service, Department, and other state or federal jurisdictional agencies.

4. The Conservation Credits sold and transferred to Project Applicant shall be nontransferable and non-assignable, and shall not be used as compensatory mitigation for any other Project or purpose, except as set forth herein.

5. Project Applicant must exercise his/her/its right to purchase the Conservation Credits within 20 days of the date of this Agreement. After the 20-day period this Agreement will be considered null and void.

Upon purchase of the credits specified in paragraph E above, the Bank Sponsor shall submit to the CBRT Members listed in the Notices section of the Bank Agreement / Bank Enabling Instrument, copies of the:
a) Agreement for Sale of Conservation Credits; b) Bill of Sale; c) Payment Receipt; and d) an updated ledger. The updated inventory / ledger must detail: i) Project Applicant; ii) Project Name; iii) Status (sale complete/sale not complete); iv) Credit Sale Date; v) Service and/or Department File Number; vi) U.S.

Army Corps of Engineers File Number (if applicable); vii) Total Number of Credits Authorized to Sell; vii) Total Number of Credits Sold to Date (inclusive); and ix) Balance of all Credits Available. The inventory / ledger should include all sales data from bank opening/establishment to the present. [SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]
987
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement the day and year first above written.

BANK SPONSOR:

South Bay Conservation Resources, LLC, a California limited liability company By: Stonecreek Properties, LLC, a California limited liability company Its: Manager
By: _____________________________________________Date: _____________________ (Signature)
Name: _____________________________________Title: ____________________________ PROJECT APPLICANT:

City of Salinas
By: _____________________________________________Date: _____________________ (Signature)
Name: _____________________________________Title: ____________________________ UNITED STATES FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE:

By: _____________________________________________Date: _____________________ (Signature)
Name: _____________________________________Title: ____________________________ CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE:

By: _____________________________________________Date: _____________________ (Signature)
Name: _____________________________________Title: ____________________________ 988
Exhibit “A”
BORONDA ROAD CONGESTION RELIEF PROJECT - PHASE 2b (CIP 9510) Project Description:

The Boronda Road Congestion Relief Project Phase 2b will include the widening of Boronda Road from approximately 900 feet east of El Dorado Drive to 1,300 feet east of Natividad Road, from two lanes to four lanes, including construction of roundabout at the intersection of Natividad Road. The widening would occur along the northern edge of the existing road areas that are under active agricultural cultivation. An existing drainage ditch along the north side of East Boronda Road which extends from east of Darthmouth Way to west of Natividad Road, would be relocated approximately 100 feet to the north to accommodate the road widening. The project will also include the construction of bike and shoulder lanes, bus pullouts, and sidewalks, construction of stormwater treatment facilities and bioretention facilities in the roadway medians, islands, and adjacent to sidewalks, and installation of storm drain lines, sanitary sewer mainlines, landscaping, and other related improvements. [Boronda Road Congestion Relief Project Phase 2b (CIP 9510) (Department, File No. 2080-2023- 015-04, USFW 2022-0079978-S7-001, USACE File No SPN 2017-00402,) Monterey County, California] 989
Exhibit “B”

BILL OF SALE
Contract # SRCB 26-03
Bank CDFW Tracking No. 1798-2013-08-R4, USFWS File No. 08EVEN-2014-B-0086 Project Applicant Service No. USFW File No: 2022-0079978-S7-001, Department File No: 2080-2023- 015-04, USACE File No SPN 2017-00402
In consideration of $582,000 receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, South Bay Conservation Resources, LLC, a California limited liability company (Bank Sponsor) does hereby bargain, sell and transfer to City of Salinas (Project Applicant), 9.7 multi-species California tiger salamander upland habitat and California red-legged frog credits in the Sparling Ranch Conservation Bank in Santa Clara and San Benito Counties, California, developed, and approved by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Bank Sponsor represents and warrants that it has good title to the credits, has good right to sell the same, and that they are free and clear of all claims, liens, or encumbrances.

Bank Sponsor covenants and agrees with the buyer to warrant and defend the sale of the credits hereinbefore described against all and every person and persons whomsoever lawfully claiming or to claim the same.

DATED: ______________________________________
South Bay Conservation Resources, LLC, a California limited liability company By: Stonecreek Properties, LLC, a California limited liability company Its: Manager
By: _____________________________________________
(Signature)
Name: _____________________________________Title: ____________________________ 990
Exhibit “C”
Sparling Ranch Conservation Bank

MULTI-SPECIES CREDITS
CALIFORNIA RED-LEGGED FROG AND CALIFORNIA TIGER SALAMANDER CREDITS:

PAYMENT RECEIPT

PARTICIPANT INFORMATION
Name: City of Salinas
Address: 200 Lincoln Avenue
Salinas, CA 93901
Telephone: 831-758-7194
Contact: Adriana Robles, Email: [email protected]

PROJECT INFORMATION
Project Description: Boronda Road Congestion Relief Project – Phase 2b (CIP 9510) Service/Department File
Number:

USFW File No: 2022-0079978-S7-001, CDFW File No: 2080-2023- 015-04
Other Agency File Number(s): USACE File No: SPN 2017-00402 Species/Habitat Affected: Multi-species California tiger salamander upland habitat and California red-legged frog credits
Credits to be Purchased: 9.7
Payment Amount: $582,000
Project Location: City of Salinas
County/Address: Monterey County, CA

PAYMENT INFORMATION
Payee: South Bay Conservation Resources, LLC, a California limited liability company Payer: City of Salinas
Amount: $582,000
Method of payment: Wire Transfer __________________ Check No. ________________ By: _____________________________________________Date: _____________________ (Signature)
Name: _____________________________________Title: ____________________________ 991
IN REPLY REFER TO:
2022-0079978-S7-001
April 24, 2023
Frances Malamud-Roam
Project Manager, Regulatory Division
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
450 Golden Gate Avenue, 4th Floor
San Francisco, California 94102
Subject: Reinitiation of the Biological Opinion on the Boronda Road Congestion Relief Project, Monterey County, California (Corps File No.

SPL-2017-00402)
Dear Frances Malamud-Roam:

This document transmits the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (Service) reinitiated biological opinion based on our review of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ (Corps) proposed issuance of a permit, pursuant to section 404 of the Clean Water Act, to the City of Salinas Public Works Department (City). The Corps proposes to authorize the City to widen road areas that would result in the relocation of an existing drainage ditch. The purpose of this reinitiation is to update the project description (phase 3 is no longer part of the project), and mitigation of the effects of the project. At issue are the project’s effects on the federally threatened California red-legged frog (Rana draytonii) and the California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense), in accordance with section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act) (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.).

We have based this reinitiated biological opinion on information that accompanied your original request for consultation, including the Habitat Assessment Report (EMC Planning Group Inc. 2020), and information received on September 8 and 21, 2022.

Consultation History
We received your original request for formal consultation on April 22, 2021 and completed the biological opinion on January 4, 2022. We received your request for reinitiation of formal consultation on September 8, 2022. We received sufficient information to initiate consultation on September 21, 2022.

On November 30, 2022, we met with the Corps, California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), and City to discuss the possibility of a consistency determination from CDFW based on the Service’s reinitiated biological opinion.
992
Frances Malamud-Roam 2
On January 12, 2023, you requested to review a draft of the reinitiated biological opinion.

You also granted permission for CDFW to review the draft.

On February 6, 2023, we provided the draft of the reinitiated biological opinion to the Corps and CDFW for their review. We received comments on the draft biological opinion from CDFW on February 22, 2023.

On March 30, 2023, you agreed to May 3, 2023 as the due date for the reinitiated biological opinion.

BIOLOGICAL OPINION

DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION
The Corps proposes to authorize the City of Salinas’ Boronda Road Congestion Relief Project. The City plans to widen East Boronda Road from Dartmouth Way to approximately 1,300 feet east of Natividad Road, from two lanes to four lanes, including roundabouts at major intersections. The widening would occur along the northern edge of the existing road in areas that are under active agricultural cultivation. The City would relocate an existing drainage ditch, which currently extends from east of Dartmouth Way to west of Natividad Road, approximately 100 feet to the north to accommodate the road widening. The project will result in 40.06 acres of disturbance, of which 16.11 acres are currently developed paved roadways.

The City would widen the road in two phases. Phase 1 would include widening East Boronda Road from east of Dartmouth Way to approximately 1,200 feet east of McKinnon Street, including construction of a new roundabout at the intersection. It would require relocating an agricultural drainage ditch 100 feet north. Phase 1 would result in 2.36 acres of permanent impacts, and 3.17 acres of temporary impacts to undeveloped land. Phase 2 would be partitioned into phase 2a and phase 2b. Phase 2a would include widening Boronda Road from 1,200 feet east of McKinnon Street to 900 feet east of El Dorado Drive, including a roundabout at the intersection with El Dorado Drive. Phase 2a would result in 3.17 acres of permanent impacts and 5.24 acres of temporary impacts to undeveloped land. Phase 2b would include the widening of Boronda Road from 900 feet east of El Dorado Drive to 1,300 feet east of Natividad Road, including a roundabout at the intersection with Natividad Road.

Phase 2b would result in 4.85 acres of permanent impacts and 5.16 acres of temporary impacts to undeveloped land.

The applicant would stage equipment and materials along both sides of McKinnon Street north of the intersection with East Boronda Road. The stockpiled construction materials within staging areas would include excavated soils, aggregate base, pipes, rebar, and signs. The City also proposes to create bike and shoulder lanes, bus pullouts, and sidewalks, which include cut and fill, and asphalt work. Lastly, landscaping would include planting of native and noninvasive plants. Construction for this project would continue intermittently until 2026. 993
Frances Malamud-Roam 3
Conservation Measures
The Corps and the City propose to implement the following measures to minimize effects to California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders:

1. At least 80 days prior to project activities, the City will submit to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) the name, qualifications, business address, contact information, and references with contact information of the biologist(s) (and designated monitor(s), if applicable) who will conduct activities for California tiger salamander specified in the following measures. The City will ensure that the biologist(s) are knowledgeable and experienced in the biology, natural history, and collecting and handling of California tiger salamander, as well as excavating burrows and crevices to minimize mortality and monitoring construction activities. The City has the option of using designated monitors to assist the biologist(s) in compliance monitoring under direction or supervision of the biologist(s). The City will ensure that the designated monitor(s) are knowledgeable and experienced in the biology and natural history of California tiger salamander, and monitoring construction activities.

Designated monitor responsibilities will be restricted to a specific set of measures, specified by the City at the time their qualifications are submitted for review.

Following CDFW approval of the biologist(s) and designated monitor(s), the City will submit the qualifications, business address, contact information, references with contact information, and documentation of CDFW approval of the biologist(s) to the Service for approval. No project activities will begin until the City has received written approval from the Service and CDFW that the project biologist(s) are approved to conduct the work for California tiger salamander. The City will obtain written approval from the Service and CDFW if the biologist(s) or designated monitor(s) must be changed (EMC Planning Group Inc. 2020, pp 4-2 through 4-5).

2. At least 30 days prior to ground disturbance, the City will submit to the Service the name, qualifications, business address, contact information, and references with contact information of the biologist(s) who will conduct activities for California redlegged frog specified in the following measures. No project activities will begin until the City has received written approval from the Service that the project biologist(s) are approved to conduct the work. The City will obtain written approval from the Service if the biologist(s) must be changed.

3. The Service-approved (and CDFW-approved) biologist(s) for California tiger salamander will prepare a Mortality Reduction and Relocation Plan in consultation with CDFW for California tiger salamander and submit it to CDFW for review and approval a minimum of 30 days prior to the beginning of project activities. The Mortality Reduction and Relocation Plan for California tiger salamander will include, but not be limited to, a map of all areas where project activities will occur (hereafter project areas) and a discussion of the portion(s) on the map which represent potential upland habitat; identification of the areas on the map within 1.3 miles of known or potential breeding habitat for California tiger salamander; detailed survey, 994
Frances Malamud-Roam 4
excavation, capture, handling, and relocation methods; identification of relocation areas; and identification of a wildlife rehabilitation center or veterinary facility capable of treating injured wild amphibians. Project activities may not proceed until the Mortality Reduction and Relocation Plan for California tiger salamander is approved in writing by CDFW. The City will provide a courtesy copy of the approved plan to the Service. The designated monitor(s) are prohibited from capturing and handling California tiger salamander (and California red-legged frog) unless specifically approved in writing by the Service and under the direct supervision of the Service-approved (and CDFW-approved) biologist(s) for California tiger salamander (or the Service-approved biologist(s) for California redlegged frog). Any proposed changes to the CDFW-approved Mortality Reduction and Relocation Plan for California tiger salamander will be submitted in writing to CDFW and approved by CDFW in writing prior to implementation of any proposed modifications to the Mortality Reduction and Relocation Plan for California tiger salamander. The City will provide a courtesy copy of any CDFW-approved changes to the Mortality Reduction and Relocation Plan for California tiger salamander to the Service.

4. The Service-approved biologist(s) will supervise the implementation of all species protection measures. Construction personnel will attend a training session regarding the protection measures, as described below:
a. Before construction activities begin, the Service-approved biologist(s) will conduct a worker environmental awareness training session for all construction personnel. The training will include a description of protected biological resources, species descriptions and habitat requirements, and general measures being implemented to protect sensitive resources during construction.

Informational handouts with photographs clearly illustrating species appearances will be used in the training session.
b. Training topics will include special-status species that may be present during the project, including California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander.
c. The training session will include information regarding steps to take if a special status species is observed, including contact information for the biological monitoring staff and measures to protect species during construction. All new construction personnel will undergo this mandatory worker environmental awareness training when they begin working on the project. Training will occur prior to the start of construction and periodically as needed if new construction personnel begin work on the project. The City will provide interpretation for all non-English speaking construction personnel.

Upon completion of the training, construction personnel will sign a form stating that they attended the training and understand all species protection measures. 995
Frances Malamud-Roam 5
The training will be repeated at least once annually for long-term or permanent employees that will be conducting project activities.

5. The Service-approved biologist(s) and designated monitor(s) will maintain constructionmonitoring documentation onsite in either hard copy or digital format throughout the construction period, which will include a copy of this biological opinion and a list of signatures of all construction personnel who have successfully completed the worker environmental awareness training. The City will ensure a copy of the constructionmonitoring documentation is available for review.

6. The Service-approved biologist(s) and designated monitor(s) will have the authority to halt work that may affect listed amphibians at any time to prevent take of California redlegged frogs or California tiger salamanders. Work will re-commence only when authorized by the Service-approved biologist(s).

7. No more than 14 calendar days prior to initiating project activities within the project area, the Service-approved biologist(s) for California tiger salamander will survey the project area for California tiger salamanders. These surveys will provide 100 percent visual coverage (including burrow and crevice openings) within the project area as well as a 50-foot buffer zone around the project area, with the exception that areas outside of the City’s access or control need not be surveyed. If California tiger salamanders are found, the Service-approved biologist(s) for California tiger salamander will relocate them in accordance with the CDFW-approved Mortality Reduction and Relocation Plan for California tiger salamander. The City will provide the survey results to CDFW in a written report prior to the beginning of project activities and will provide a courtesy copy of this written report to the Service.

8. During pre-activity clearance surveys (Measure #7), the Service-approved biologist(s) for California tiger salamander will flag all animal burrows and crevices suitable for California tiger salamander occupancy within the project area and a 50- foot buffer outside the project area, unless the buffer area is outside of City control.

An avoidance buffer of 50 feet or greater around animal burrows or crevices will be maintained regardless of whether the burrow or crevice is in the project area or solely within the project area’s 50-foot buffer zone. Flagged burrows or crevices which occur within 630 meters of known or potential breeding habitat, and which cannot be avoided by at least 50 feet will be fully excavated (Measure #9).

9. Prior to initiating ground-disturbing project activities within the project area, animal burrows and crevices identified during the pre-activity clearance surveys (Measure #7) and flagged (Measure #8) within 630 meters of known or potential California tiger salamander breeding habitat as identified in the CDFW-approved Mortality Reduction and Relocation Plan for California tiger salamander, and which cannot be fully avoided by at least 50 feet, will be fully excavated. Applicable burrows and crevices may be excavated by hand or in a manner otherwise approved by the Service in accordance with the CDFW-approved Mortality Reduction and Relocation Plan for 996
Frances Malamud-Roam 6
California tiger salamander. Burrow and crevice excavation will occur under the direct supervision of the Service-approved biologist(s) for California tiger salamander.

Animal burrows and crevices identified outside of the project area, but within the project area’s 50-foot buffer zone, will be similarly excavated if they lie within 50 feet of ground-disturbing project activities occurring within the project area. Burrows and crevices outside of the City’s access or control do not need to be excavated. The Service-approved biologist(s) for California tiger salamander will relocate any live California tiger salamander discovered during burrow and crevice excavation in accordance with the CDFW-approved Mortality Reduction and Relocation Plan for California tiger salamander. Excavation will occur no more than 14 days after the completion of the pre-activity clearance surveys.

10. A Service-approved biologist will survey the project site no more than 48 hours before the onset of work activities. If any California red-legged frogs are found and these individuals are likely to be killed or injured by work activities, the approved biologist will be allowed sufficient time to move them from the site before work begins. The Service-approved biologist will relocate the California red-legged frogs the shortest distance possible to a location that contains suitable habitat and that will not be affected by activities associated with the proposed project. The relocation site should be in the same drainage to the extent practicable. The project proponent will coordinate with the Service on the relocation site prior to the capture of any California red-legged frogs.

11. A Service-approved biologist will be present at the work site until all California redlegged frogs have been relocated out of harm’s way, workers have been instructed, and disturbance of habitat has been completed. After this time, the City may designate a person to monitor on-site compliance with all minimization measures. The Serviceapproved biologist will ensure that this monitor receives the training outlined in measure 4 above and in the identification of California red-legged frogs. If the monitor or the Service-approved biologist recommends that work be stopped because California red-legged frogs would be affected in a manner not anticipated by the City or the Service during review of the proposed action, they will notify a project supervisor immediately. The project supervisor will either resolve the situation by eliminating the adverse effect immediately or require that all actions causing these effects be halted. If work is stopped, the Service will be notified as soon as possible.

Prior to the initiation of project activities and following surveying (Measure #7), flagging (Measure #8), and excavating burrows and crevices (Measure #9), the City will fence access routes and the project perimeter to prevent California red-legged frogs or California tiger salamanders from entering areas where project activities occur. The exclusion fence will consist of a 3-foot wall of 0.25-inch mesh. The exclusion fence will be installed under the direct supervision of the Service-approved (and CDFW-approved) biologist(s) for California tiger salamander and begin no later than 48 hours after the burrow and crevice excavation and relocation activities, where applicable, are complete. The City will also avoid animal burrows and crevices by 50 feet during the installation of the exclusion fence in accordance with Measures #7, #8, 997
Frances Malamud-Roam 7
and #9. The exclusion fence will be supported sufficiently to maintain its integrity under all conditions, such as wind and heavy rain, for the duration that it is in place.

The Service-approved biologist(s) or designated monitor(s) will inspect the fence weekly for holes and tears that could allow frogs or salamanders to pass. Holes or tears will be repaired within 24 hours of discovery. The fence and the site will be inspected after significant rain events to ensure that no frogs or salamanders are sheltering along the fence or attempting to walk around it. If California red-legged frogs or California tiger salamanders are observed, the Service-approved biologist(s) will contact the Service immediately to determine the best course of action. At a minimum, all project activities within 100 feet of the animal will cease until it leaves the project area. The City will remove exclusion fencing immediately upon completion of project activities in the fenced project area.

12. The Service-approved biologist(s) will be present on-site daily until pre-activity clearance surveys (Measure #7), flagging (Measure #8), burrow excavation and relocation (Measure #9), exclusion fence installation (Measure #12), worker environmental awareness training (Measure #4), and all initial ground disturbance activities are complete. The Service-approved biologist(s) will be on site for the duration of the day when these project activities occur and conduct at least daily compliance inspections. During periods of inactivity and after clearing, grubbing, and initial ground disturbance are complete, the Service-approved biologist(s) and/or designated monitor(s) will conduct at least weekly compliance inspections.

Compliance inspections will include minimizing incidental take of California tiger salamander and California red-legged frog; preventing unlawful take of California tiger salamander and California red-legged frog; checking for compliance with all measures of this biological opinion; checking all exclusion zones; and ensuring that signs, stakes, and fencing are intact, and that project activities are only occurring in the project area. The Service-approved biologist(s) and designated monitor(s) will conduct biological construction monitoring in all project areas with potential to impact California red-legged frogs or California tiger salamanders. The Serviceapproved biologist(s) and designated monitor(s) will prepare written observation and inspection records for each day they are on site, summarizing oversight activities and compliance inspections, observations of California tiger salamander and their sign, survey results, and monitoring activities.

13. The Service-approved biologist(s) for California tiger salamander will maintain a record of California tiger salamanders handled and all documented observations of California tiger salamander. This information will include for each animal: (1) date, time, and location (Global Positioning System coordinates and maps) of capture or observation as well as release, if applicable; (2) the name of the party that identified the California tiger salamander; (3) circumstances of the incident; (4) the general condition and health, noting all visible conditions including gait and behavior, ectoparasites, injuries, etc.; (5) any diagnostic markings, sex, age (juvenile or adult); (6) actions undertaken; (7) habitat description; and (8) ambient temperature when handled and released or observed. The Service-approved biologist(s) for California 998
Frances Malamud-Roam 8
tiger salamander will also submit this information to the California Natural Diversity Database. The Service-approved biologist(s) for California tiger salamander will prepare a relocation summary and include it in the biological monitoring reports.

14. Within active construction zones that are fenced, workers will check for wildlife under vehicles and equipment before they are moved. Workers will thoroughly inspect all construction pipes, culverts, or other similar structures with a diameter of one inch or greater that are stored for one or more overnight periods for California tiger salamander and California red-legged frog before the object is subsequently moved, buried, or capped. Workers will check all excavated steep-walled holes or trenches greater than one foot deep for trapped animals. To prevent inadvertent entrapment of California tiger salamander or California red-legged frog, all open trenches, holes, sumps, and other excavations with sidewalls steeper than a 1:1 (45 degree) slope will have an escape ramp of earth or a non-slip material with a less than 1:1 (45 degree) slope. At the end of each workday, construction personnel will ensure all trenches, holes, sumps, or other excavations with sidewalls steeper than a 1:1 (45 degree) slope of any depth are covered with barrier material (e.g., hardware cloth) such that animals are unable to dig or squeeze under the barrier and become entrapped. The outer two feet of excavation cover will conform to solid ground so that gaps do not occur between the cover and the ground, and the excavation cover will be secured with soil staples or by similar means to prevent gaps. Construction personnel will also thoroughly inspect all open trenches, holes, sumps, or other excavations for California tiger salamander and California red-legged frog before they are backfilled. If California red-legged frogs or California tiger salamanders are observed within an active construction zone, the Service-approved biologist(s) will be notified immediately and all work within 100 feet of the individual animal will be halted and all equipment turned off until the Service-approved biologist(s) have captured and relocated the California red-legged frog from the project area or the Service-approved biologist(s) have captured and relocated the California tiger salamander from the project area. The California red-legged frog or California tiger salamander will be relocated to an approved off-site location according to the CDFWapproved Mortality Reduction and Relocation Plan for California tiger salamander or at the direction of the Service-approved biologist(s) for California red-legged frog.

The City will notify the Corps and the Service and halt construction if California redlegged frog eggs or tadpoles, or California tiger salamanders eggs or larva are detected during pre-construction surveys or project activities.

15. Initial site clearing and grading will be conducted and completed only during the dry season, from April 15 to November 15. The Service-approved biologist(s) and the City will monitor the National Weather Service 72-hour forecast for the project area at the following web address: www.weather.gov. During rainfall events or when a 50 percent or greater chance of rainfall is predicted within 72 hours, the City will cease all project activities in the project area where initial ground disturbance (vegetation removal, grading, grubbing, and excavation) has yet to occur until the rainfall ceases and a zero percent chance of rain is forecast. Project activities may continue during 999
Frances Malamud-Roam 9
rainfall events or when a 50 percent or greater chance of rain is forecast within portions of the project area that have already undergone pre-activity clearance surveys (Measure #7), flagging (Measure #8), and burrow excavation (Measure #9), and which are surrounded by exclusion fence that has been properly maintained and is in good repair.

16. The City will appropriately protect stockpiles to prevent soil erosion. The City will stockpile and stage all materials and equipment in a manner that discourages California tiger salamander or California red-legged frog use. In all locations, the City will not place bundled or loose materials directly on the ground. These materials will be elevated to discourage use by California tiger salamander and California red-legged frog. The City will not place materials outside of exclusion fencing.

17. A designated representative will be appointed by the City who will be the contact for any employee who may inadvertently kill or injure a special-status species or find one dead, injured, or trapped, in addition to the Service-approved biologist(s). The designated representative will be legally responsible to notify the Service-approved biologist(s) and the Service immediately in the event that take of any special-status wildlife species occurs. The designated representative will be identified during the Employee Education Program and his or her contact information will be provided to the Service.

18. The designated representative or the Service-approved biologist(s) will compile daily observation and inspection records into quarterly biological monitoring reports.

Quarterly biological monitoring reports will include a summary of all pre-activity surveys and compliance monitoring conducted during the previous quarter; the project activities that occurred during the previous quarter; and an accounting of the number of acres that have been permanently and temporarily disturbed by the project within the project area, both for the prior quarter, and the total since issuance of the biological opinion, if applicable. Quarterly biological monitoring reports will be submitted to the City providing documentation that these measures have been implemented. These reports will be used to help inform the reporting requirement per this biological opinion.

19. Due to the potential for wildlife entanglement, the contractor will avoid the use of monofilament netting in erosion control materials (fiber rolls and blankets).

20. All food-related and other trash will be disposed of in animal-proof containers and removed from the project area at least once a week during the construction period or more often if trash is attracting avian or mammalian predators. Construction personnel will not feed or otherwise attract wildlife to the area.

21. The Service-approved biologist(s) will remove non-native aquatic animals such as bullfrogs and crayfish which may prey on California red-legged frogs and other native species whenever these are detected during surveys. 1000
Frances Malamud-Roam 10

22. The City will send quarterly biological monitoring reports, as detailed in Measures #14 and #19, to CDFW by January 30, April 30, July 30, and October 30 with a courtesy copy to the Service. The City will send a courtesy copy of the annual report, as detailed in the Reporting Requirements of the biological opinion (see pages 29-30) to CDFW. The annual report for the biological opinion may suffice for the January 30 quarterly report to CDFW so long as the report covers the months of October-December of the previous year. Additionally, in the event that a dead or injured California tiger salamander is found during project activities, the City will send a courtesy copy of the notification, as described in the incidental take statement of this biological opinion (page 30) to CDFW. All reports sent to CDFW should be sent to the following address: [email protected].

Mitigation for Loss of Habitat
The City will compensate for the permanent loss of upland California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander habitat. The City will purchase credits from Sparling Ranch Conservation Bank at a minimum 2:1 ratio of area preserved to area impacted. The City will secure compensatory mitigation for each phase of the project in advance of beginning each phase. Prior to Phase 1, the City will purchase 4.72 credits; prior to Phase 2a, the City will purchase 6.34 credits; and prior to Phase 2b, the City will purchase 9.7 credits. The City will submit to the Service and CDFW a copy of the Bill of Sale(s) and Payment Receipt prior to each phase of the project.

ANALYTICAL FRAMEWORK FOR THE JEOPARDY DETERMINATION
Jeopardy Determination
Section 7(a)(2) of the Act requires that Federal agencies ensure that any action they authorize, fund, or carry out is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of listed species. “Jeopardize the continued existence of” means “to engage in an action that reasonably would be expected, directly or indirectly, to reduce appreciably the likelihood of both the survival and recovery of a listed species in the wild by reducing the reproduction, numbers, or distribution of that species” (50 CFR 402.02).

The jeopardy analysis in this biological opinion relies on four components: (1) the Status of the Species, which describes the rangewide condition of the California tiger salamander and the California red-legged frog, the factors responsible for that condition, and their survival and recovery needs; (2) the Environmental Baseline, which analyzes the condition of the California tiger salamander and the California red-legged frog in the action area, the factors responsible for that condition, and the relationship of the action area to the survival and recovery of the California tiger salamander and the California red-legged frog; (3) the Effects of the Action, which determines all consequences to the California tiger salamander and the California red-legged frog caused by the proposed action that are reasonably certain to occur; and (4) the Cumulative Effects, which evaluates the effects of future, non-Federal activities, 1001
Frances Malamud-Roam 11
that are reasonably certain to occur in the action area, on the California tiger salamander and the California red-legged frog.

In accordance with policy and regulation, the jeopardy determination is made by evaluating the effects of the proposed Federal action in the context of the current status of the California tiger salamander and the California red-legged frog, taking into account any cumulative effects, to determine if implementation of the proposed action is likely to reduce appreciably the likelihood of both the survival and recovery of the California tiger salamander and the California red-legged frog in the wild by reducing the reproduction, numbers, and distribution of those species.

STATUS OF THE SPECIES
California Red-legged Frog
Legal Status
The California red-legged frog was federally listed as threatened on May 23, 1996 (61 Federal Register (FR) 25813). Revised critical habitat for the California red-legged frog was designated on March 17, 2010 (75 FR 12816, Service 2010). The Service issued a recovery plan for the species on May 28, 2002 (Service 2002).

Natural History
California red-legged frogs use a variety of habitat types ranging from sea level to approximately 5,000 feet elevation, including aquatic systems, riparian, and upland habitats.

Individual California red-legged frogs may use the environment in varying ways, for example, an individual may complete their entire life cycle in a particular habitat without using other components (i.e., a pond is suitable for each life stage and use of upland habitat or a riparian corridor is not necessary). However, populations appear to persist where a mosaic of habitat elements exists, embedded within a matrix of dispersal habitat. Adults are often associated with dense, shrubby riparian or emergent vegetation and areas with deep (greater than 1.6 feet) still or slow-moving water; the largest summer densities of California red-legged frogs are associated with deep-water pools with dense stands of overhanging willows (Salix spp.) and an intermixed fringe of cattails (Typha latifolia) (Hayes and Jennings 1988, p. 147).

California red-legged frogs can breed in both natural and anthropogenic aquatic habitats; tadpoles, juveniles, and adult frogs have been collected from streams, creeks, ponds, marshes, deep riverine pools and backwaters within streams and creeks, dune ponds, lagoons, estuaries, and artificial impoundments such as stock ponds. Important factors influencing the suitability of aquatic breeding sites are the general lack of invasive aquatic predators, sufficient hydroperiod, percent emergent vegetation, and topography. Accessibility to upland sheltering habitat is essential for the survival of California red-legged frogs within a watershed and can be a factor limiting population numbers and distribution.
1002
Frances Malamud-Roam 12
California red-legged frogs are “irruptive” breeders where their breeding capacity is highly dependent on local environmental conditions, specifically the availability of cool water for egg deposition and larval maturation (Jennings and Hayes 1994, p. 62). California red-legged frogs breed from November to May and breeding activity typically begins earlier at southern coastal than northern coastal localities (Storer 1925, p. 2; Alvarez et al. 2013, pp. 547–548). Breeding may start as late as March or April in Sierra Nevada localities, due to low temperatures at these sites in January and February (Tatarian 2008, p. 16). Breeding in southern California localities may start as late as April, as exemplified in Matilija Canyon following the 2017 Thomas Fire (Patrick Lieske, U.S. Forest Service, in litt. 2021). High water flows in the winter and spring also can delay breeding in streams and rivers (Fellers et al. 2001, p. 157).

Female California red-legged frogs lay only one egg mass in a breeding year and each egg mass contains between 300 to 4,000 eggs (Storer 1925, p. 240). Frogs typically deposit egg masses in relatively willow water (approximately 1.6 to 2 feet deep) on emergent vegetation within 4 feet of shore (Storer 1925, p. 239, Jennings and Hayes 1994, p. 64). However, the species can deposit eggs on a wide variety of substrates including boulders and cobbled substrate and submerged tips of overhanging branches, and egg masses have been documented 39 feet from shore and in water up to 10.5 feet deep (Alvarez et al. 2013, pp. 544-545; Wilcox et al. 2017, p. 68). California red-legged frog tadpoles hatch from egg masses after 6 to14 days (Storer 1925, p. 241). Tadpole development and growth rates are variable and likely temperature dependent (Fellers 2005, pp. 552-554). Occasionally, tadpoles may overwinter and then metamorphose the following spring, a phenomenon so far observed in Santa Clara, Marin, Contra Costa, and San Luis Obispo Counties (Fellers et al. 2001, entire). The juvenile California red-legged frog life stage is defined as the time after an individual undergoes metamorphosis (when they lose their tails and become small froglets) which typically occurs four to five months after hatching and it spans to when an individual is able to breed (Storer 1925, p. 241; Wright and Wright 1949, p. 422). On average, the juvenile life stage is from about five months of age to three years in California red-legged frogs. Immediately after metamorphosis, juveniles shelter near their natal pond. However, some juveniles may disperse in the fall to nearby moist uplands or different aquatic habitat to avoid predation by larger, older frogs. Hayes and Tennant (1985, p. 604) found juveniles to seek prey diurnally and nocturnally, whereas adults were largely nocturnal.

During periods of wet weather, starting with the first rains of fall, some individual California red-legged frogs may make long-distance overland excursions through upland habitats to reach breeding sites. In Santa Cruz County, Bulger et al. (2003, p. 90) found marked California redlegged frogs moving up to 1.74 miles through upland habitats, via point-to-point, straight-line migrations without regard to topography, rather than following riparian corridors. Most of these overland movements occurred at night and took up to 2 months. Similarly, in San Luis Obispo County, Rathbun and Schneider (2001, p. 1302) documented the movement of a male California red-legged frog between two ponds that were 1.78 miles apart in less than 32 days; however, most California red-legged frogs in the Bulger et al. (2003, p. 93) study were nonmigrating frogs and always remained within 426 feet of their aquatic site of residence (half of the frogs always stayed within 82 feet of water). Rathbun et al. (1993, p. 15) radio-tracked three California red-legged frogs near the coast in San Luis Obispo County at various times between 1003
Frances Malamud-Roam 13
July and January; these frogs also stayed close to water and never strayed more than 85 feet into upland vegetation. Scott (2002, p. 2) radio-tracked nine California red-legged frogs in East Las Virgenes Creek in Ventura County from January to June 2001, which remained relatively sedentary as well; the longest within-channel movement was 280 feet and the farthest movement away from the stream was 30 feet.

After breeding, California red-legged frogs often disperse from their breeding habitat to forage and seek suitable dry-season habitat. Cover within dry-season aquatic habitat could include boulders, downed trees, and logs; agricultural features such as drains, watering troughs, spring boxes, abandoned sheds, or hayricks, and industrial debris. California red-legged frogs use small mammal burrows and moist leaf litter (Rathbun et al. 1993, p. 15; Jennings and Hayes 1994, p. 64); incised stream channels with portions narrower and deeper than 18 inches may also provide habitat (Service 2002, p. 14). This type of dispersal and habitat use, however, is not observed in all California red-legged frogs and is most likely dependent on the year-to-year variations in climate and habitat suitability and varying requisites per life stage.

Although the presence of California red-legged frogs is correlated with still water deeper than approximately 1.6 feet, riparian shrubbery, and emergent vegetation (Jennings and Hayes 1994, p. 64), California red-legged frogs appear to be absent from numerous locations in its historical range where these elements are well represented. The cause of local extirpations does not appear to be restricted solely to loss of aquatic habitat. The most likely causes of local extirpation are thought to be changes in faunal composition of aquatic ecosystems (i.e., the introduction of invasive predators and competitors) and landscape-scale disturbances that disrupt California red-legged frog population processes, such as dispersal and colonization.

The introduction of contaminants or changes in water temperature may also play a role in local extirpations. These changes may also promote the spread of predators, competitors, invasive plants, parasites, and diseases.

Rangewide Status
The historical range of the California red-legged frog extended coastally from southern Mendocino County and inland from the vicinity of Redding, California, southward to northwestern Baja California, Mexico (Storer 1925, p. 235; Jennings and Hayes 1985, p. 95; Shaffer et al. 2004, p. 2673). The California red-legged frog has sustained a 70 percent reduction in its geographic range because of several factors acting singly or in combination (Davidson et al. 2001, p. 465).

Over-harvesting, habitat loss, non-native species introduction, and urban encroachment are the primary factors that have negatively affected the California red-legged frog throughout its range (Jennings and Hayes 1985, pp. 99-100; Hayes and Jennings 1988, p. 152). Habitat loss and degradation, combined with over-exploitation and introduction of exotic predators, were important factors in the decline of the California red-legged frog in the early to mid-1900s.

Continuing threats to the California red-legged frog include direct habitat loss due to stream alteration and loss of aquatic habitat, indirect effects of expanding urbanization, competition or predation from non-native species including the bullfrog, catfish (Ictalurus spp.), bass 1004
Frances Malamud-Roam 14
(Micropterus spp.), mosquito fish (Gambusia affinis), red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii), and signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus). Chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis) is a waterborne fungus that can decimate amphibian populations, and is considered a threat to California red-legged frog populations.

Recovery
The 2002 final recovery plan for the California red-legged frog (Service 2002) states that the goal of recovery efforts is to reduce threats and improve the population status of the California red-legged frog sufficiently to warrant delisting. The recovery plan describes a strategy for delisting, which includes: (1) protecting known populations and reestablishing historical populations; (2) protecting suitable habitat, corridors, and core areas; (3) developing and implementing management plans for preserved habitat, occupied watersheds, and core areas; (4) developing land use guidelines; (5) gathering biological and ecological data necessary for conservation of the species; (6) monitoring existing populations and conducting surveys for new populations; and (7) establishing an outreach program. The California red-legged frog will be considered for delisting when:

1. Suitable habitats within all core areas are protected and/or managed for California redlegged frogs in perpetuity, and the ecological integrity of these areas is not threatened by adverse anthropogenic habitat modification (including indirect effects of upstream/downstream land uses).

2. Existing populations throughout the range are stable (i.e., reproductive rates allow for long-term viability without human intervention). Population status will be documented through establishment and implementation of a scientifically acceptable population monitoring program for at least a 15-year period, which is approximately 4 to 5 generations of the California red-legged frog. This 15-year period should coincide with an average precipitation cycle.

3. Populations are geographically distributed in a manner that allows for the continued existence of viable metapopulations despite fluctuations in the status of individual populations (i.e., when populations are stable or increasing at each core area).

4. The species is successfully reestablished in portions of its historical range such that at least one reestablished population is stable/increasing at each core area where California red-legged frog are currently absent.

5. The amount of additional habitat needed for population connectivity, recolonization, and dispersal has been determined, protected, and managed for California red-legged frogs.

The recovery plan identifies eight recovery units based on the assumption that various regional areas of the species’ range are essential to its survival and recovery. The recovery status of the California red-legged frog is considered within the smaller scale of recovery units as opposed 1005
Frances Malamud-Roam 15
to the overall range. These recovery units correspond to major watershed boundaries as defined by U.S. Geological Survey hydrologic units and the limits of the range of the California redlegged frog. The goal of the recovery plan is to protect the long-term viability of all extant populations within each recovery unit.

Within each recovery unit, core areas have been delineated and represent contiguous areas of moderate to high California red-legged frog densities that are relatively free of exotic species such as bullfrogs. The goal of designating core areas is to protect metapopulations that combined with suitable dispersal habitat, will support long-term viability within existing populations. This management strategy allows for the recolonization of habitat within and adjacent to core areas that are naturally subjected to periodic localized extinctions, thus assuring the long-term survival and recovery of the California red-legged frog.

California tiger salamander
Legal Status
The Service recognizes three distinct population segments (DPS) of the California tiger salamander: one in Sonoma County; one in northern Santa Barbara County; and one in central California. On September 21, 2000, the Service listed the Santa Barbara County distinct population segment of the California tiger salamander as endangered (65 FR 57241). On March 19, 2003, the Service listed the Sonoma County distinct population segment of the California tiger salamander as endangered (68 FR 13497). On August 4, 2004, the Service published a final rule listing the California tiger salamander as threatened range-wide, including the previously identified Sonoma and Santa Barbara distinct population segments (69 FR 47212). On August 19, 2005, U.S. District Judge William Alsup vacated the Service's downlisting of the Sonoma and Santa Barbara populations from endangered to threatened.

Thus, the Sonoma and Santa Barbara populations are listed as endangered, and the central California population is listed as threatened.

Life History
The California tiger salamander is a large and stocky terrestrial salamander with small eyes and a broad, rounded snout. Adults may reach a total length of 8.2 inches, with males generally averaging about 8 inches total length, and females averaging about 6.8 inches in total length.

For both sexes, the average snout-to-vent length is approximately 3.6 inches (65 FR 57241).

The small eyes have black irises and protrude from the head. Coloration consists of white or pale yellow spots or bars on a black background on the back and sides. The belly varies from almost uniform white or pale yellow to a variegated pattern of white or pale yellow and black.

Males can be distinguished from females, especially during the breeding season, by their swollen cloacae (a common chamber into which the intestinal, urinary, and reproductive canals discharge), larger tails, and larger overall size (Trenham 1998, p. 74).

California tiger salamanders spend the majority of their lives in upland habitats and cannot persist without them. The upland component of California tiger salamander habitat typically 1006
Frances Malamud-Roam 16
consists of grassland savannah, but also includes scrub or chaparral habitats (Shaffer et al. 1993, (50 CFR 47216). Juvenile and adult California tiger salamanders spend the dry summer and fall months of the year in the burrows of small mammals, such as California ground squirrels (Otospermophilus beecheyi) and Botta's pocket gopher (Thomomys bottae) (Storer 1925, p. 70; Trenham 1998, p. 46).

Burrow habitat created by ground squirrels and utilized by California tiger salamanders suggests a commensal relationship between the two species (Loredo et al. 1996, p. 284).

Movement of California tiger salamanders within and among burrow systems continues for at least several months after juveniles and adults leave the ponds (Trenham 2001, p. 369).

California tiger salamanders cannot dig their own burrows, and as a result, their presence is associated with burrowing mammals. Active ground-burrowing rodent populations likely sustain California tiger salamanders because inactive burrow systems become progressively unsuitable over time (69 FR 47212, p. 32). Loredo et al. (1996, p. 284) found that California ground squirrel burrow systems collapsed within 18 months following abandonment by, or loss of, the mammals.

Breeding
Adults enter breeding ponds during fall and winter rains, typically from October through February (Trenham et al. 2000, p. 369). Males migrate to the breeding ponds before females (Loredo and Van Vuren 1996, p. 895). Males usually remain in the ponds for an average of about 6 to 8 weeks, while females stay for approximately 1 to 2 weeks. In dry years, both sexes may stay for shorter periods (Loredo and Van Vuren 1996, pp. 897-899).

Females attach their eggs singly or, in rare circumstances, in groups of two to four, to twigs, grass stems, vegetation, or debris in the water (Storer 1925, p. 66; Twitty 1941, pp. 1-4). In ponds with little or no vegetation, females may attach eggs to objects, such as rocks and boards on the bottom. In drought years, the seasonal pools may not form and the adults may not breed (Barry and Shaffer 1994, pp. 159-164). The eggs hatch in 10 to 14 days with newly hatched salamanders (larvae) ranging in size from 0.5 to 0.6 inch in total length (65 FR 57241). The larvae are aquatic. Each is yellowish gray in color and has a broad, plump head; large, feathery external gills; and broad dorsal fins that extend well onto its back. The larvae feed on zooplankton, small crustaceans, and aquatic insects for about 6 weeks after hatching, after which they switch to larger prey (Anderson 1968, pp. 273-284). Larger larvae have been known to consume smaller tadpoles of tree frogs (Pseudacris spp.) and California red-legged frogs (Rana draytonii). California tiger salamander larvae are among the top aquatic predators in seasonal pool ecosystems.

The larval stage of the California tiger salamander usually lasts 3 to 6 months, because most seasonal ponds and pools dry up during the summer (Petranka 1998, p. 48). Amphibian larvae must grow to a critical minimum body size before they can metamorphose to the terrestrial stage (Wilbur and Collins 1973, pp. 1305-1314). Larvae collected near Stockton in the Central Valley during April varied from 1.9 to 2.3 inches in length (Storer 1925, p. 85). Feaver (1971, p. 51) found that larvae metamorphosed and left the breeding pools 60 to 74 days after the eggs 1007
Frances Malamud-Roam 17
had been laid, with larvae developing faster in smaller, more rapidly drying pools. The longer the inundation period, the larger the larvae and metamorphosed juveniles are able to grow, and the more likely they are to survive and reproduce (Semlitsch et al. 1988, p. 189). The larvae perish if a site dries before they complete metamorphosis. Pechmann et al. (2001) found a strong positive correlation between inundation period and total number of metamorphosing juvenile amphibians, including tiger salamanders (50 CFR 47215).

Metamorphosed juveniles leave the breeding sites in the late spring or early summer. Like the adults, juveniles may emerge from these retreats to feed during nights of high relative humidity (Shaffer et al. 1993 p. 5) before settling in their selected upland sites for the dry, hot summer months. While most California tiger salamanders rely on rodent burrows for shelter, some individuals may utilize soil crevices as temporary shelter during upland migrations (Loredo et al. 1996, p. 284). Mortality of juveniles during their first summer exceeds 50 percent (Trenham 1998, p. 18). Emergence from upland habitat in hot, dry weather occasionally results in mass mortality of juveniles (Holland 1990, p. 219).

Lifetime reproductive success for California tiger salamanders is typically low. Less than 50 percent breed more than once (Trenham 2000, p. 365). In part, this is due to the extended length of time it takes for California tiger salamanders to reach sexual maturity; most do not breed until 4 or 5 years of age. Combined with low survivorship of metamorphs (in some populations, less than 5 percent of marked juveniles survive to become breeding adults (Trenham 1998, p. iv), low reproductive success limits California tiger salamander populations.

Because of this low recruitment, isolated subpopulations can decline greatly from unusual, randomly occurring natural events as well as from human-caused factors that reduce breeding success and individual survival. Based on metapopulation theory (Hanski and Gilpin 1991), factors that repeatedly lower breeding success in isolated ponds that are too far from other ponds for dispersing individuals to replenish the population further threaten the survival of a local population.

Rangewide Status
The central California tiger salamander is endemic to the grassland community found in California’s Central Valley, the surrounding foothills, and coastal valleys (Fisher and Shaffer 1996, p. 1390). The distribution of breeding locations of this species, and the other two distinct populations, does not naturally overlap with that of any other species of tiger salamander (Petranka 1998, p. 47; Stebbins 2003, p. 469).

California tiger salamanders have been found in upland habitats various distances from aquatic breeding habitats. During a mark and recapture study in the Upper Carmel River Valley in Monterey County, Trenham et al. (2000, p. 3526) observed California tiger salamanders dispersing up to 2,200 feet between breeding ponds between years. In research at Olcott Lake in Solano County, Trenham and Shaffer (2005, p. 1160) captured California tiger salamanders in traps installed 1,312 feet from the breeding pond. In a trapping study in Contra Costa County (Orloff 2011, p. 266), most California tiger salamanders were trapped at least 2,600 feet 1008
Frances Malamud-Roam 18
from the nearest breeding pond and some were captured as far as 7,200 feet from the nearest breeding pond.

Historically, natural ephemeral vernal pools were the primary breeding habitats for California tiger salamanders (Trenham 2001, p. 3). However, with the conversion and loss of many vernal pools through farmland conversion and urban and suburban development, ephemeral and permanent ponds that have been created for livestock watering are now frequently used by the species (Robins and Vollmar 2002, p. 406).

The California tiger salamander is threatened primarily by the destruction, degradation, and fragmentation of upland and aquatic habitats, primarily resulting from the conversion of these habitats by urban, commercial, and intensive agricultural activities. Additional threats to the species include hybridization with introduced nonnative barred tiger salamanders (A. tigrinum mavortium), destructive rodent-control techniques (e.g., deep-ripping of burrow areas, use of fumigants), reduced survival due to the presence of mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis) (Leyse and Lawler 2000, p. 76), and mortality on roads due to vehicles. Disease, particularly chytridiomycosis and ranaviruses, and the spread of disease by nonnative amphibians, are discussed in the listing rule as additional threats to the species.

We do not have data regarding the absolute number of California tiger salamanders due to the fact that they spend most of their lives underground. Virtually nothing is known concerning the historical abundance of the species. At one study site in Monterey County, Trenham et al. (2000, p. 369) found the number of breeding adults visiting a pond varied from 57 to 244 individuals. A Contra Costa County breeding site, approximately 124 miles north of the Trenham et al. (2000) study site in Monterey County, showed a similar pattern of variation, suggesting that such fluctuations are typical (Loredo and Van Vuren 1996, p. 896). At the local landscape level, nearby breeding ponds can vary by at least an order of magnitude in the number of individuals visiting a pond, and these differences appear to be stable across years (Trenham et al. 2001).

Recovery
The strategy of the Recovery Plan for the Central California Distinct Population Segment of the California Tiger Salamander (Service 2017, p. iv) focuses on alleviating the threat of habitat loss and fragmentation in order to increase population resiliency (ensure each population is sufficiently large to withstand stochastic events), redundancy (ensure a sufficient number of populations to provide a margin of safety for the species to withstand catastrophic events), and representation (conserve the breadth of the genetic makeup of the species to conserve its adaptive capabilities). Recovery of this species can be achieved by addressing the conservation of remaining aquatic and upland habitat that provides essential connectivity, reduces fragmentation, and sufficiently buffers against encroaching development and intensive agricultural land uses.

Appropriate management of these areas will also reduce mortality by addressing non-habitat related threats, including those from non-native and hybrid tiger salamanders, other non-native 1009
Frances Malamud-Roam 19
species, contaminants, disease, and road mortality. Research and monitoring should be undertaken to determine the extent of known threats, identify new threats, and reduce threats to the extent possible.

The recovery strategy is intended to establish healthy, self-sustaining populations of Central California tiger salamanders through the protection and management of upland and aquatic breeding habitat, as well as the restoration of aquatic breeding habitat where necessary. It also ensures habitat management and monitoring and the conducting of research. Due to shifting conditions in the ecosystem (e.g., invasive species, unforeseen disease, climate change, and effects from future development and conversion to agriculture), the Service anticipates the need to adapt actions that implement this strategy over time. The recovery strategy ensures that the genetic diversity of the Central California tiger salamander is preserved throughout the DPS to allow adaptation to local environments, maintenance of evolutionary potential for adaptation to future stresses, and reduction in the potential for genetic drift and inbreeding to result in inbreeding depression.

The range of the Central California tiger salamander has been classified into four recovery units (Service 2017, p. II-1). These recovery units are not regulatory in nature; the boundaries of the recovery units do not identify individual properties that require protection, but they are described solely to facilitate recovery and management decisions. The recovery units represent both the potential extent of Central California tiger salamander habitat within the species’ range and the biologically (genetically) distinct areas where recovery actions should take place that will eliminate or ameliorate threats. All recovery units must be recovered to achieve recovery of the DPS.

The four recovery units have been further subdivided into Management Units. These subdivisions of recovery units are areas that might require different management, that might be managed by different entities, or that might encompass different populations. In the recovery plan, the management units are primarily administrative in that they serve to organize the recovery units into separate and approximately equal areas that will assist in managing the implementation of the recovery actions.

ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE
The implementing regulations for section 7(a)(2) (50 CFR 402.02) define the environmental baseline as “the condition of the listed species or its designated critical habitat in the action area, without the consequences to the listed species or designated critical habitat caused by the proposed action. The environmental baseline includes the past and present effects of all Federal, State, or private actions and other human activities in the action area, the anticipated effects of all proposed Federal projects in the action area that have already undergone formal or early section 7 consultation, and the effect of State or private actions which are contemporaneous with the consultation in process. The consequences to listed species or designated critical habitat from ongoing agency activities or existing agency facilities that are not within the agency’s discretion to modify are part of the environmental baseline.” 1010
Frances Malamud-Roam 20
Action Area
The implementing regulations for section 7(a)(2) of the Act (50 CFR 402.02) define the “action area” as all areas to be affected directly or indirectly by the Federal action and not merely the immediate area involved in the action. The action area for this biological opinion includes all areas disturbed by project activities of phase 1, phase 2a, and phase 2b, as shown in the Project Habitat Impacts (City 2022). The action area occurs within an approximately 40.06-acre area and includes all adjacent uplands within a 500-foot buffer of jurisdictional waters of the U.S. in the immediate vicinity that may be directly or indirectly affected by implementation of the project.

Habitat Characteristics of the Action Area
The action area contains 0.12 acre of agricultural and roadside drainage ditches. These ditches are regularly mechanically disturbed, and possibly sprayed with herbicide. In the ditches near culverts at McKinnon Street and near McKinnon School, some aquatic vegetation was present during surveys, but the vegetation is regularly removed. The ditches provide moist refugia for California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders, but do not provide potential breeding habitat, because they lack a natural hydroperiod or ponding, contain only flowing agricultural runoff, and are regularly disturbed to remove vegetation. There are small mammal burrows along the drainage ditches which may provide aestivation or sheltering habitat. Several burrows are present near the McKinnon Street intake culvert, as well as along East Boronda Road to the west of Natividad Road. The action area contains active farmland which constitutes low-quality upland habitat for the California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander. In most areas within the action area, only sparse ruderal vegetation such as nonnative cheeseweed (Malva parviflora), flax-leaved horseweed (Erigeron bonariensis), purslane (Portulaca oleracea), and bur-clover (Medicago polymorpha) occurs. The remaining portion of the action area is paved road bordered by a dense urban area to the south and does not provide habitat for the listed amphibians.

Previous Consultations in the Action Area
To our knowledge there have been no previous consultations in the action area.

Condition (Status) of the Species in the Action Area
California Red-legged Frog and California Tiger Salamander Neither California red-legged frogs nor California tiger salamanders have been observed within the action area. However, biologists observed six occurrences of California tiger salamanders within 3.1 miles of the action area, some of which contain salamanders that are hybridized with nonnative salamanders (CNDDB 2021). Within one mile of the action area, biologists observed one California red-legged frog in 2021 (CNDDB 2021) and eight California red-legged frog adults and one metamorph between 2002 and 2004 (EMC Planning Group Inc. 2020). Due to the proximity of these observations, it is possible for California red-legged frogs and California 1011
Frances Malamud-Roam 21
tiger salamanders to be present in the action area. Both species may disperse through the action area or use the drainage ditches as wet refugia. Both species may use the small mammal burrows for shelter, and California tiger salamanders may use the burrows for aestivation.

Recovery
California Red-legged Frog
The action area is within the Diablo Range and Salinas Valley Recovery Unit, described in the recovery plan for the California red-legged frog (Service 2002, 49 pp.). Threats to California red-legged frogs in the Diablo Range and Salinas Valley Recovery Unit include agriculture, livestock, mining, non-native species, recreation, urbanization, and water management activities and structures including diversions and reservoirs. The species’ recovery status at the time the recovery plan was published was listed as medium.

California Tiger Salamander
The action area is within the Central Coast Range Recovery Unit. Some habitat protection has occurred within this recovery unit; however, most populations are not protected and have not been monitored for population status, trends, and threats. The primary threat to populations within this recovery unit is hybridization with nonnative tiger salamanders. Maintaining the native genetic integrity of central California tiger salamanders within this recovery unit is a priority.

EFFECTS OF THE ACTION
The implementing regulations for section 7(a)(2) define effects of the action as “all consequences to listed species or critical habitat that are caused by the proposed action, including the consequences of other activities that are caused by the proposed action. A consequence is caused by the proposed action if it would not occur but for the proposed action and it is reasonably certain to occur. Effects of the action may occur later in time and may include consequences occurring outside the immediate area involved in the action” (50 CFR 402.02).

Effects of the Proposed Action on the California Red-legged Frog and California Tiger Salamander
Project activities would directly affect California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders within the action area. However, effects to California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders would be reduced with the implementation of the proposed conservation measures. Injury or mortality could occur from animals being crushed by heavy equipment, vehicles, debris, and worker foot traffic and from activities such as the relocation of the existing agricultural ditch, construction of new drainage ditches and culverts, and filling of the existing ditches with clean material and removal of old culverts. Adults and juvenile California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders could become trapped and die in 1012
Frances Malamud-Roam 22
upland sheltering habitat or be exposed to predators if burrows or other refugia are crushed or covered. Preconstruction surveys, capture and relocation of individuals before work commences would help minimize these effects. Hand removal of emergent aquatic vegetation to reduce cover prior to the onset of work should also lower the likelihood of the presence of California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders during project activities.

California tiger salamanders could be injured or killed during burrow and crevice excavation.

Injury or mortality could occur from salamanders being crushed by equipment or collapsed burrows. However, having the assistance of Service-approved biologists with experience in burrow excavation do this work will minimize the effects of burrow excavation.

California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders may also be injured or killed by capture and relocation. They could be crushed by equipment or personnel, mishandled, subjected to physiological stress such as being held out of the water, exposed to pathogens or contaminants, or released into unsuitable habitat. However, the assistance of Service-approved biologists to do this work will minimize the effects of capture and relocation.

Long segments of exclusion fence may hinder the movements of dispersing California tiger salamanders and California red-legged frogs, and they may remain along the fence. This may expose them to predators or desiccation, leading to injury or mortality. The effects of the exclusion fence will be reduced by regular surveys of the exclusion fence by Service-approved biologists and designated monitors.

Uninformed workers have the potential to adversely affect California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders by killing, injuring or disturbing individuals. The potential for this to occur would be reduced by educating workers on the presence and protected status of these species and the measures that are being implemented to protect them during project activities.

The use of flagging to demarcate project areas would further reduce these potential effects by preventing workers from encroaching into environmentally sensitive upland or aquatic habitats.

Removal of sediment and emergent vegetation from waterways may have indirect effects on water quality in the action area downstream of the project area. Implementing best management practices to control erosion and sedimentation, and locating equipment and materials outside of wetted areas, would reduce these effects. These effects will be further minimized by the Corps’ and the City’s implementation of measures to prevent suspended sediment from moving downstream.

California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders may experience a disruption of normal behavioral patterns from worker foot traffic and activities and their associated noise and vibration. This disruption could cause individuals to leave or avoid suitable habitat and may increase the potential for predation, desiccation, competition for food and shelter, or strike by vehicles. Pre-construction surveys, conducting activities in the dry season, and relocation of individuals prior to project activities would limit these effects. 1013
Frances Malamud-Roam 23
California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders could become trapped and die in excavated or backfilled ditches and trenches. Covering ditches and trenches each night to prevent entrapment of California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders should minimize this effect. Domestic animals, including pets, could disturb, injure or kill California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders if allowed at construction sites. Improperly impounding water may attract California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders, which could be injured or killed if additional water is added or removed.

Stockpiles of removed sediment and erosion control materials stored onsite can attract California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders seeking upland refugia, and lead to injury or death if individuals become entrapped or are present when these materials are moved. Surrounding active construction sites with exclusion fencing would reduce these effects. Accidental spills of hazardous materials or careless fueling or oiling of vehicles or equipment could degrade aquatic or upland habitat to the extent where California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders are injured or killed. The potential for this effect to occur would be reduced by informing workers of the importance of preventing hazardous materials from entering the environment, locating staging and fueling areas away from aquatic habitat, and by having an effective spill response plan and materials in place in the action area.

Trash left during or after project activities could attract predators to the action area, which could in turn prey upon California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders. For example, raccoons (Procyon lotor) and feral cats (Felis catus) are attracted to trash and prey opportunistically on the California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders (Service 2002, p. 66). We expect this potential effect would be reduced or avoided by the control of waste products at all work sites.

The proposed project would relocate the 0.12-acre drainage that serves as non-breeding aquatic habitat. The ditch would be permanently moved 100 feet north, and the acreage of the ditch would be maintained at 0.12 acre (J. Walther, EMC Planning Group, pers. comm. 2023).

Therefore, it is likely it would continue to provide moist refugia for California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders, but the water flow or volume may be different from before the project, and the aquatic vegetation would be removed. It is possible that aquatic vegetation may grow in the new segment of drainage ditch over time, providing refugia for amphibians.

The project would impact low-quality upland habitat for the California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander. The project would temporarily impact 13.57 acres of low-quality upland habitat. The upland habitat is made up of active farmland, and it would return to active farmland after the project. Therefore, amphibians would experience a temporary loss of dispersal habitat and shelter availability due to the project. The project would permanently impact 10.38 acres of low-quality upland habitat that amphibians may use for dispersal or shelter. The City will mitigate for the permanent loss of habitat by purchasing upland habitat credits at Sparling Ranch Conservation Bank for California red-legged frog and California 1014
Frances Malamud-Roam 24
tiger salamander at a 2:1 ratio of area preserved to area impacted for permanent impacts. The credits will conserve habitat that is of higher quality than the habitat that is permanently lost due to the project.

Effects on Recovery
California Red-legged Frog and California Tiger Salamander We anticipate that effects on recovery of the California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander from the proposed project would be minimal with implementation of the conservation measures. The project would result in a minor increase in urbanization, which is a threat for California red-legged frog in the Diablo Range and Salinas Valley Recovery Unit.

The project would not increase the threat of hybridization with nonnative salamanders, which is the main threat for California tiger salamanders in the Central Coast Range Recovery Unit.

The project would not preclude the Service’s ability to implement recovery actions in these recovery units.

Although the proposed project would temporarily impact 13.57 acres and permanently impact

10.38 acres of low-quality upland habitat, we expect the project to contribute to the recovery of both species over the long term. The City will mitigate for permanent impacts at a 2:1 ratio of acres conserved to acres impacted. This will result in approximately 20.76 acres of upland habitat conserved for California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders. The City will purchase credits at Sparling Ranch Conservation Bank, providing compensation with habitat that is higher quality than the habitat permanently lost from the project.

Summary of Effects
California Red-legged Frog and California Tiger Salamander Project activities would adversely affect California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders. The proposed project would affect juvenile and adult life stages of the California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander if present in the action area, given the proximity of project areas to documented occurrences, presence of upland and dispersal habitat in the action area, and potential overlap of some project activities with periods when frogs and salamanders may be active. However, the Corps and the City proposed avoidance and minimization measures that would reduce project effects. Based on these factors we anticipate that few California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders are likely to be injured or killed during project activities, and that the project will not appreciably affect the recovery of both species.

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
Cumulative effects include the effects of future State, tribal, local or private actions that are reasonably certain to occur in the action area considered in this biological opinion. We do not consider future Federal actions that are unrelated to the proposed action in this section because 1015
Frances Malamud-Roam 25
they require separate consultation pursuant to section 7 of the Act. We are not aware of any non-Federal actions that are reasonably certain to occur in the action area.

CONCLUSION
The regulatory definition of “to jeopardize the continued existence of the species” focuses on assessing the effects of the proposed action on the reproduction, numbers, and distribution, and their effect on the survival and recovery of the species being considered in the biological opinion. For that reason, we have used those aspects of the California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander statuses as the basis to assess the overall effect of the proposed action on these species.

California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander Reproduction
The action area does not contain potential breeding habitat, and therefore we do not expect the proposed action to impact eggs, larva, or tadpoles. The Corps and the City propose to conduct initial site clearing and grading only during the dry season, which will minimize effects to dispersing individuals seeking breeding opportunities. Therefore, we conclude that the proposed project activities would not reduce the reproduction of California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander locally or rangewide.

Numbers
In the Effects of the Action section of this biological opinion, we state that some injury or mortality of California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander could occur during project activities, or as a result of capturing and relocating California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders. We expect such injury and mortality to be very infrequent, primarily due to the minimization measures implemented by the City. Therefore, we expect that loss of individuals, if any, would not appreciably reduce the species’ numbers locally or rangewide.

Distribution
Project activities would permanently reduce upland habitat for California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders. However, these impacts are a small portion of the habitat available in the local vicinity and an even smaller proportion of the habitat available in the species’ geographic range. We expect that over time, any individuals displaced by project activities would recolonize areas of temporary disturbance. Despite any habitat alterations that may result from the project activities, the California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander would still occupy the aquatic features within the one-mile project buffer. We do not expect the Corps’ proposed activities to reduce the species’ distribution because the California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander would occupy its current geographic 1016
Frances Malamud-Roam 26
distribution. Thus, we conclude that the proposed action would not appreciably reduce the distribution of California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander locally or rangewide.

Recovery
As described in the Effects of the Action section, the proposed project has been designed to minimize effects to California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander by implementing a suite of conservation measures, including mitigation for the loss of habitat. We have determined that the effects to California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander and their habitat would not be substantial on either a local or rangewide basis. Therefore, the proposed action would not appreciably diminish the species’ likelihood of recovery.

Conclusion for California Red-legged Frog and California Tiger Salamander After reviewing the current status of the California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander, the environmental baseline for the action area, the effects of the proposed project and the cumulative effects, it is the Service's biological opinion that the proposed action is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of both the California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander because:

1. The project would not appreciably reduce reproduction of either of the species either locally or rangewide.

2. The project would affect a very small number of individuals and would not appreciably reduce numbers of either of the species at the local level or rangewide.

3. The project would not appreciably reduce either species’ distribution either locally or rangewide.

4. The project would not cause any effects that would preclude our ability to recover either of the species locally or within its range.

INCIDENTAL TAKE STATEMENT
Section 9 of the Act and Federal regulation pursuant to section 4(d) of the Act prohibit the take of endangered and threatened wildlife species, respectively, without special exemption. Take is defined as to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture or collect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct. Harm is further defined by the Service to include significant habitat modification or degradation that results in death or injury to wildlife by significantly impairing essential behavioral patterns, including breeding, feeding, or sheltering.

Incidental take is defined as take that is incidental to, and not the purpose of, the carrying out of an otherwise lawful activity. Under the terms of section 7(b)(4) and section 7(o)(2), taking that is incidental to and not the purpose of the agency action is not considered to be prohibited taking under the Act provided that such taking is in compliance with the terms and conditions of this incidental take statement.
1017
Frances Malamud-Roam 27
This incidental take statement is based upon the proposed action occurring as described in the accompanying biological opinion. Take of listed species in accordance with this incidental take statement is exempted under section 7(o)(2) of the Act. The Corps must ensure that the applicant implements the proposed action as described in this biological opinion and undertake the non-discretionary measures described below; otherwise, the exemption provided under section 7(o)(2) of the Act may lapse. The Corps has a continuing duty to regulate the activity covered by this incidental take statement. If the Corps: (1) fails to assume and implement the terms and conditions, or (2) fails to require the City to adhere to the terms and conditions of the incidental take statement through enforceable terms that are added to the permit or grant document, the protective coverage of section 7(o)(2) may lapse. To monitor the impact of incidental take, the City and Corps must report the progress of its action and the impact on the species to the Service as specified in this incidental take statement (50 CFR 402.14(i)(3)).

AMOUNT OR EXTENT OF TAKE
We anticipate that some California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders could be taken as a result of the proposed action. We expect the incidental take to be in the form of capture during relocation activities, and in the form of injury or death if individuals are accidentally injured or killed during capture and relocation, or cannot be collected for relocation and remain in project areas.

We cannot quantify the precise number of California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders that may be taken as a result of the Corps’ proposed action because species move over time; for example, animals may enter or leave the action area after the time of pre-activity surveys. California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders may be difficult to detect due to their cryptic nature, small body size, and low mobility. California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders also may be difficult to detect due to their use of aquatic habitats, underground burrows, or dense cover. Animals injured or killed during relocation efforts are likely to be observed; however, mortality from other sources, including the indirect effects of relocation (e.g., inability to find food in a new location) or displacement from the action area, would be difficult to observe. Finding a dead or injured California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander may also be unlikely due to their small size, cryptic coloration and potential to be quickly scavenged. The protective measures proposed by the Corps and the City are likely to prevent mortality or injury of most individuals.

Consequently, we are unable to reasonably anticipate the actual number of California redlegged frogs and California tiger salamanders that would be taken by the proposed project; however, we must provide a level at which formal consultation would have to be reinitiated.

The Environmental Baseline and Effects of the Action sections of this biological opinion indicate that adverse effects to California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander would likely be low given the nature of the proposed activities, and we, therefore, anticipate that take of California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander would also be low. We also recognize that for every California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander found dead or injured, other individuals may be killed or injured that are not detected, so when we 1018
Frances Malamud-Roam 28
determine an appropriate take level we are anticipating that the actual take would be higher and we set the number below that level.

Therefore, if three (3) adults or juveniles of California tiger salamander are found dead or injured, or are killed or injured during capture and relocation, the Corps must contact our office immediately to reinitiate formal consultation.

Furthermore, if three (3) adults or juveniles of the California red-legged frog are found dead or injured, or are killed or injured during capture and relocation, the Corps must contact our office immediately to reinitiate formal consultation.

Project activities that are likely to cause additional take should cease during this review period because the exemption provided under section 7(o)(2) may lapse and any further take could be a violation of section 4(d) or 9.

REASONABLE AND PRUDENT MEASURES
The measures described below are non-discretionary and must be undertaken by the Corps or made binding conditions of the permit issued to the City, as appropriate, for the exemption in section 7(o)(2) to apply. The Corps has a continuing duty to regulate the activity covered by this incidental take statement. If the Corps (1) fails to assume and implement the terms and conditions or (2) fails to require the City to adhere to the terms and conditions of the incidental take statement through enforceable terms that are added to the permit or grant document, the protective coverage of section 7(o)(2) may lapse. To monitor the effect of incidental take, the Corps or the City must report the progress of the action and its effect on the species to the Service as specified in the incidental take statement [50 CFR 402.14(i)(3)]. The Service believes the following reasonable and prudent measures are necessary and appropriate to minimize the effects of the incidental take of California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander:

1. The Corps must communicate with the City on future maintenance activities and implement specific project activity restrictions.

2. Biologists must be authorized by the Service before they implement conservation measures for the California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander, including but not limited to conducting surveys, excavating burrows, and capturing and relocating individuals.

3. The Service must be notified of the initiation of the project activities and provide access to the project site upon request.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS
To be exempt from the prohibitions of section 9 of the Act, the Corps must comply with the following terms and conditions, which implement the reasonable and prudent measures 1019
Frances Malamud-Roam 29
described above and outline reporting and monitoring requirements. These terms and conditions are non-discretionary.

1. The following terms and conditions implement reasonable and prudent measure 1:
a. The Corps will inform the City that future maintenance activities, including vegetation maintenance consisting of mechanical removal and herbicide application that may affect California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders and require fill-discharge within the waters of the U.S., will require the Corps to complete a section 7 consultation with the Service. If there is no Federal nexus, the Corps will advise the applicant to contact the Service directly to consult under section 10(a)(1)(B) of the Act.
b. The Corps and the City will not impound water in a manner that may attract California red-legged frogs.

2. The following term and condition implements reasonable and prudent measure 2:
a. The Corps or the City must request our approval of any biologists that they, the applicant, or their contractors employ to conduct project activities associated with the California red-legged frog or California tiger salamander pursuant to this biological opinion. Such requests must include the Service’s reference number of 2022-0079978-S7-001 and be communicated by electronic mail via [email protected] at least 30 days prior to any such activities being conducted. Please be advised that possession of a 10(a)(1)(A) recovery permit for the California tiger salamander or California red-legged frog does not substitute for the implementation of this measure. Authorization of Service-approved biologists is valid for this project only.

3. The following terms and conditions implement reasonable and prudent measure 3:
a. The City must provide the Service access to the action area to survey and inspect project activities upon request.
b. The Corps or City must notify the Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office via electronic mail ([email protected]) prior to conducting project activities pursuant to this biological opinion and include the Service’s reference number of 2022- 0079978-S7-001 in the electronic mail.

REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
Pursuant to 50 CFR 402.14(i)(3), the Corps must report the progress of the action and its effect on the species to the Service as specified in this incidental take statement. The Corps must submit a post-construction report for each phase of the project within 90 days of completing construction activities, which must include all monitoring reports and results. The City and 1020
Frances Malamud-Roam 30
parties contracted by the City may prepare the post-construction report on behalf of the Corps, but the Corps must review the report to ensure compliance with the requirements of this biological opinion prior to submitting the report to the Service. The report should include the Service’s reference number of 2022-0079978-S7-001 and be sent to [email protected]. The report must describe project activities conducted under this biological opinion, including conservation measures described in the proposed action, and discuss any problems that were encountered in implementing conservation measures or terms and conditions and any other pertinent information. The report must also document all effects to California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders, including the following information:

The report must document the number of California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders observed, captured and relocated during the project, and the number killed or injured during project activities, if any; the dates and times of capture, mortality, or injury; specific locations and circumstances of capture, mortality, or injury; approximate size and life stage of individuals; and a description and map of relocation sites.

Furthermore, the Corps must, by January 30 following each year the authorization is in effect, provide an annual summary of these post-construction reports describing the activities that occur and their effects on covered species. The report must include confirmation that credits were purchased from Sparling Ranch Conservation Bank, such as a copy of the Bill of Sale(s) and Payment Receipt as described on pages 10 and 23-24 of this biological opinion. The report should include the Service’s reference number of 2022-0079978-S7-001 and should be sent to [email protected]. The Corps must report all observations of federally listed species to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for inclusion in the California Natural Diversity Database.

DISPOSITION OF DEAD OR INJURED SPECIMENS
As part of this incidental take statement and pursuant to 50 CFR 402.14(i)(1)(v), upon locating a dead or injured California red-legged frog or California tiger salamander, initial notification within 3 working days of its finding must be made by in writing to the Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office ([email protected]). The report must include the Service’s reference number for the biological opinion, date, time, location of the carcass, a photograph, cause of death or injury, if known, and any other pertinent information.

The Corps or the City must take care in handling injured animals to ensure effective treatment and care, and in handling dead specimens to preserve biological material in the best possible state. The Corps or the City must transport injured animals to a qualified veterinarian. Should any treated California red-legged frog or California tiger salamander survive, the Corps or the City must contact the Service regarding the final disposition of the animal(s). The remains of any California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders must be placed with the Santa Barbara Natural History Museum, contact: Paul Collins, Santa Barbara Natural History Museum, Vertebrate Zoology Department, 2559 Puesta Del Sol, Santa Barbara, California 93105; (805) 682-4711, extension 321. The Corps or the City should make arrangements with 1021
Frances Malamud-Roam 31
the Museum regarding proper disposition of potential museum specimens prior to the commencement of project activities. In the case of take or suspected take of listed species not exempted in this biological opinion, the Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office must be notified within 24 hours.

CONSERVATION RECOMMENDATIONS
Section 7(a)(1) of the Act directs Federal agencies to use their authorities to further the purposes of the Act by carrying out conservation programs for the benefit of endangered and threatened species. The conservation recommendations below are discretionary agency activities to minimize or avoid adverse effects of a proposed action on listed species or critical habitat, to help implement recovery plans, or to develop information and can be used by the Corps to fulfill their 7(a)(1) obligations.

1. We recommend that dead California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders found in the action area be tested for amphibian disease.

2. For the purpose of investigating hybridization, we recommend that dead California tiger salamanders undergo genetic analysis, given that 30 hybrid larvae were recorded in nearby ponds.

3. The Corps should investigate the efficacy of capturing and moving of California redlegged frogs and California tiger salamanders to determine the extent that this minimization measure reduces adverse effects of project activities on the species. As part of this, information on repeat capture and behavior of individuals post-movement should be noted.

4. As a Federal agency, the Corps should promote the conservation of all federally listed species per section 7(a)1 of the Act. Mitigation that is intended to offset take of listed species or the loss of their habitat should not only offset the effects of the proposed action, but promote the recovery of listed species. We are available to assist you with expanding mitigation opportunities or developing conservation actions. You also can use the Service’s recovery plans and 5-year reviews, as guidance, where we outline actions needed to promote conservation of listed species.

The Act defines "conservation" as "to use and the use of all methods and procedures which are necessary to bring any endangered species or threatened species to the point at which the measures provided pursuant to this Act are no longer necessary." The Service requests notification of the implementation of any conservation recommendations so we may be kept informed of actions benefitting listed species or their habitats.

REINITIATION NOTICE
This concludes formal consultation on the action(s) outlined in your request dated September 8, 2022. As provided in 50 CFR 402.16, reinitiation of formal consultation is required where 1022
Frances Malamud-Roam 32
discretionary Federal agency involvement or control over the action has been retained (or is authorized by law) and if: (1) the amount or extent of incidental take is exceeded; (2) new information reveals effects of the agency action that may affect listed species or critical habitat in a manner or to an extent not considered in this opinion; (3) the agency action is subsequently modified in a manner that causes an effect to the listed species or critical habitat not considered in this opinion; or (4) a new species is listed or critical habitat designated that may be affected by the action. In instances where the amount or extent of incidental take is exceeded, the exemption issued pursuant to section 7(o)(2) may have lapsed and any further take could be a violation of section 4(d) or 9. Consequently, we recommend that any operations causing such take cease pending reinitiation.

If you have any questions about this biological opinion, please contact Danielle Clearwater of my staff by electronic mail at [email protected].

Sincerely,
Stephen P. Henry
Field Supervisor
Enclosure
1023

LITERATURE CITED
Alvarez, J. A., D. G. Cook, J. L. Yee, M. G. Van Hattem, D. R. Fong, and R. N. Fisher. 2013.

Comparative microhabitat characteristics at oviposition sites of the California red-legged frog (Rana draytonii). Herpetological Conservation and Biology 8(3):539–551.

Anderson, J. 1968. A comparison of the food habits of Ambystoma macrodactylum sigillatum, Ambystoma macrodactylum croceum, and Ambystoma tigrinum californiense.

Herpetologica 24:273-284.

Barry, S.J., and H.B. Shaffer. 1994. The status of the California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense) at Lagunita: A 50-year update. Journal of Herpetology 28:159-164.

Bulger, J.B., N.J. Scott, and R.B. Seymour. 2003. Terrestrial activity and conservation of adult California red-legged frogs (Rana aurora draytonii) in coastal forests and grasslands.

Biological Conservation 110:85-95.
[City] City of Salinas. 2022. Project Habitat Impacts. East Boronda Road Widening. [CNDDB] California Natural Diversity Database. 2021. California Department of fish and Wildlife. 2021. Records for the California red-legged frog and California tiger salamander. Accessed September 2021.
[DAPTF] Declining Amphibian Populations Task Force. 1998. The Declining Amphibian Populations Task Force (DAPTF) fieldwork code of practice. Froglog 27.

Davidson, C., H.B. Shaffer, and M.R. Jennings. 2001. Declines of the California red-legged frog:
climate, UV-B, habitat, and pesticides hypotheses. Ecological Applications 11:464-479.

EMC Planning Group Inc. 2020. Habitat Assessment Report for California Tiger Salamander and California Red-Legged Frog. Boronda Road Congestion Relief Project (CIP NO.9510).

Feaver, P.E. 1971. Breeding pool selection and larval mortality of three California amphibians:

Ambystoma tigrinum californiense Gray, Hyla regilla Baird and Girard, and Scaphiopus hammondi Girard. Master’s thesis, Department of Biology, Fresno State College, Fresno California. 58 pp.

Fellers, G.M., A.E. Launer, G. Rathbun, S. Bibzien, J. Alvarez, S. Sterner, R.B. Seymour, M. Westphal. 2001. Overwintering Tadpoles in the California Red-legged Frog (Rana aurora draytonii). Herpetological Review. 32(3) 156-157.

Fellers, G.M. 2005. Rana draytonii Baird and Girard, 1852b California red-legged frog.

Pages 552-554 in M. Lannoo (editor). Amphibian declines the conservation status of United States species. University of California Press. Berkeley, California.

Fisher, R. N., and H. B. Shaffer. 1996. The decline of amphibians in California's Great Central Valley. Conservation Biology 10:1387-1397.
1024
Hanski, I., and M. Gilpin. 1991. Metapopulation dynamics: brief history and conceptual domain.

Biological Journal of the Linnean Society 42:3-16.

Hayes, M.P., and M.R. Tennant. 1985. Diet and feeding behavior of the California red legged frog Rana aurora draytonii (Ranidae). The Southwestern Naturalist 30:601- 605.

Hayes, M.P., and M.R. Jennings. 1988. Habitat correlates of distribution of the California redlegged frog (Rana aurora draytonii) and the foothill yellow-legged frog (Rana boylii):

Implications for management. Pages 144-158 in R. Sarzo, K.E. Severson, and D.R.

Patton (technical coordinators). Proceedings of the Symposium on the Management of Amphibians, Reptiles, and Small Mammals in North America. USDA Forest Service General Technical Report RM-166.

Holland, D.C., M.P. Hayes, and E. McMillan. 1990. Late summer movement and mass mortality in the California tiger salamander (Ambyostoma californiense). Southwestern Naturalist 35:217-220.

Jennings, M., and M. Hayes. 1994. Amphibian and Reptile Species of Special Concern in California. California Department of Fish and Game Inland Fisheries Division, Rancho Cordova, California.

Jennings, M.R. 1988. Natural history and decline of native ranids in California. Pages 61–72 in H.F. De Lisle, P.R. Brown, B. Kaufman, and B.M. McGurty, editors. Southwestern Herpetologists Society special publication number 4: Proceedings of the Conference on California Herpetology. Southwestern Herpetologists Society, Van Nuys, California, USA.

Jennings, M.R., and M.P. Hayes. 1985. Pre-1900 overharvest of California red-legged frogs (Rana aurora draytonii): The inducement for bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) introduction.

Herpetological Review 31: 94-103.

Jennings, M.R., and M.P. Hayes. 1994. Amphibian and reptile species of special concern in California. Report to the California Department of Fish and Game, Inland Fisheries Division, Rancho Cordova, California. 255 pp.

Leyse, K., and S.P. Lawler. 2000. Effect of mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis) on California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense) larvae in permanent ponds. Mosquito Control Research, annual report 2000.

Loredo, I., and D. Van Vuren. 1996. Reproductive ecology of a population of the California tiger salamander. Copeia 1996:895-901.

Loredo, I., D. Van Vuren, and M.L. Morrison. 1996. Habitat use and migration behavior of the California tiger salamander. Journal of Herpetology 30:282-285. 1025
Orloff, S. 2011. Movement patterns and migration distances in an upland population of California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense). Herpetological Conservation and Biology 6:266-276.

Pechmann, J.H.K., R.A. Estes, D.E. Scott, and J.W. Gibbons. 2001. Amphibian colonization and use of ponds created for trial mitigation of wetland loss. Wetlands 21:93-111.

Petranka, J.W. 1998. Salamanders of the United States and Canada. Smithsonian Institution Press.

Rathbun, G.B., M.R. Jennings, T.G. Murphey, and N.R. Siepel. 1993. Status and ecology of sensitive aquatic vertebrates in lower San Simeon and Pico Creek, San Luis Obispo County, California. Final Report under Cooperative Agreement 14-16-0009-91-1909 between U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and California Department of Parks and Recreation. Publication Number PB93-230779, National Technical Information Service, Springfield, Virginia.

Robins, J.D., and J.E. Vollmar. 2002. Livestock grazing and vernal pools. Pages 401-430 In Vollmar, J.E. (Ed.). 2002. Wildlife and rare plant ecology of eastern Merced County’s vernal pool grasslands. Vollmar Consulting, Berkeley, California.

Rathbun, G.B., and J. Schneider. 2001. Translocation of California red-legged frogs (Rana aurora draytonii). Wildlife Society Bulletin 29:1300-1303.

Rathbun, G. B., M. R. Jennings, T.G. Murphey, and N.R. Siepel. 1993. Status and ecology of sensitive aquatic vertebrates in lower San Simeon and Pico Creek, San Luis Obispo County, California. Final Report under Cooperative Agreement 14-16-0009-91-1909 between U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and California Department of Parks and Recreation. Publication Number PB93-230779, National Technical Information Service, Springfield, Virginia.

Scott, N. 2002. Annual report, California red-legged frog, Rana aurora draytonii, Permit TE-036501-4. Unpublished report submitted to the Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office.

Semlitsch, R.D., D.E. Scott, and J.H.K. Pechmann. 1988. Time and size at metamorphosis related to adult fitness in Ambystoma talpoideum. Ecology 69:184-192. [Service] U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1996. Determination of threatened status for the California red-legged frog. Federal Register 61:25813-25833. [Service] U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2000. Endangered and threatened wildlife and plants; final rule to list the Santa Barbara County distinct population of the California tiger salamander as endangered. Federal Register 65:57241-57264, September 21, 2000. 1026
[Service] U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2002. Recovery plan for the California red-legged frog (Rana aurora draytonii). U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Portland, Oregon. viii + 173 pp. [Service] U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2003. Endangered and threatened wildlife and plants; determination of endangered status for the Sonoma County distinct population segment of the California tiger salamander; final rule. Federal Register 68:13497-13520, March 19, 2003.
[Service] U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2004. Endangered and threatened wildlife and plants; determination of threatened status for the California tiger salamander; and special rule exemption for existing routine ranching activities. Federal Register 69:47212 47248, August 4, 2004.
[Service] U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2010. Endangered and threatened wildlife and plants; Revised designation of critical habitat for the California red-legged frog; Final rule.

Federal Register 75:12816-12959.
[Service] U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2017. Recovery Plan for the Central California Distinct Population Segment of the California Tiger Salamander (Ambystoma californiese). U.S.

Fish and Wildlife Service, Sacramento, California.

Shaffer, H.B., R.N. Fisher, and S.E. Stanley. 1993. Status report: the California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense). Final report for the California Department of Fish and Game. 36 pp. plus figures and tables.

Shaffer, H.B., G.M. Fellers, S. Randall Voss, C. Oliver, and G.B. Pauly. 2004. Species boundaries, phylogeography and conservation genetics of the red-legged frog (Rana aurora/draytonii) complex. Molecular Ecology 13:2667-2677.

Stebbins, R.C. 2003. A field guide to western reptiles and amphibians, third edition. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston, Massachusetts. xiii + 533 pp.

Storer, T.I. 1925. A synopsis of the amphibia of California. University of California Publications in Zoology 27:1-342.

Tatarian, P.J. 2008. Movement Patterns of California Red-Legged Frogs (Rana Draytonii) in an Inland California Environment. Herpetological Conservation and Biology. 3(2):155-169.

Trenham, P.C. 1998. Demography, migration, and metapopulation structure of pond breeding salamanders. Unpublished Ph.D. dissertation. University of California, Davis. 96 pp.

Trenham, P.C. 2001. Terrestrial habitat use by adult California tiger salamanders. Journal of Herpetology 35:343-346.

Trenham, P.C., and H.B. Shaffer. 2005. Amphibian upland habitat use and its consequences for population viability. Ecological Applications 15:1158–1168. 1027
Trenham P.C., H.B. Shaffer, W.D. Koening, and M.R. Stromberg. 2000. Life history and demographic variation in the California tiger salamander. Copeia 2000:365-377.

Trenham, P.C., W.D. Koenig, and H.B. Shaffer. 2001. Spatially autocorrelated demography and interpond dispersal in the salamander Ambystoma californiense. Ecology 82: 3519-3530.

Twitty, V.C. 1941. Data on the life history of Ambystoma tigrinum californiense. Copeia 1941:1-4.

Wilbur, H.M., and J.P. Collins. 1973. Ecological aspects of amphibian metamorphosis. Science (n.s.), 182:1305-1314.

Wilcox, J.T., Davis, M.L., Wellstone, K.D., Keller, M.F. 2017. Traditional surveys may underestimate Rana draytonii egg-mass counts in perennial stock ponds. California Fish and Game 103(2): 66-71.

Wright, A. H., A.A Wright. 1949. Handbook of frogs and toads of the United States and Canada. Comstock Publishing Company, Inc., Ithaca, New York. 640 pp. 1028

IN LITTERIS
Lieske, Patrick, Forest Wildlife Biologist, US Forest Service, Solvang, California. 2021.

Electronic mail to Dou-Shuan Yang, Biologist, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Sacramento, California. Subject: California red-legged frog data – Matilija Creek Watershed, dated October 1, 2021.
[Service] U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2021. Letter to Frances Malamud-Roam, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers from Leilani Takano, Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, dated April 28, 2021.

Walther, Janet. 2023. Planning Group Inc. Electronic mail addressed to Danielle Clearwater, U.S.

Fish and Wildlife Service, dated January 20, 2023. Subject: Boronda Road Questions. 1029
The Declining Amphibian Populations Task Force Fieldwork Code of Practice A. Remove mud, snails, algae, and other debris from nets, traps, boots, vehicle tires, and all other surfaces. Rinse cleaned items with sterilized (e.g., boiled or treated) water before leaving each work site.

B. Boots, nets, traps, and other types of equipment used in the aquatic environment should then be scrubbed with 70 percent ethanol solution and rinsed clean with sterilized water between study sites. Avoid cleaning equipment in the immediate vicinity of a pond. wetland, or riparian area.

C. In remote locations, clean all equipment with 70 percent ethanol or a bleach solution, and rinse with sterile water upon return to the lab or "base camp” Elsewhere, when washing-machine facilities are available, remove nets from poles and wash in a protective mesh laundry bag with bleach on the “delicates” cycle.

D. When working at sites with known or suspected disease problems, or when sampling populations of rare or isolated species, wear disposable gloves1 and change them
between handling each animal. Dedicate sets of nets, boots, traps, and other equipment to each site being visited. Clean them as directed above and store separately at the end of each field day.

E. When amphibians are collected, ensure that animals from different sites are kept separately and take great care to avoid indirect contact (e.g., via handling, reuse of containers) between them or with other captive animals. Isolation from unsterilized plants or soils which have been taken from other sites is also essential. Always use disinfected and disposable husbandry equipment.

F. Examine collected amphibians for the presence of diseases and parasites soon after capture. Prior to their release or the release of any progeny, amphibians should be quarantined for a period and thoroughly screened for the presence of any potential disease agents.

G. Used cleaning materials and fluids should be disposed of safely and, if necessary, taken back to the lab for proper disposal. Used disposable gloves should be retained for safe disposal in sealed bags.

For further information on this Code, or on the Declining Amphibian Populations Task Force, contact John Wilkinson, Biology Department, The Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA, UK. E-mail: [email protected] Fax: +44 (0) 1908-654167 1 Latex gloves should not be used. They are toxic to amphibians. Use vinyl or nitrile disposable gloves instead. 1030
Boronda Road Congestion Relief Project CIP No. 9510 Initial Study Project Plans
Figure 4
Source: Wallace Group 2019
0 350 feet
STAFF PRELIMINARY WORKING DRAFT-FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY-CA GOVT CODE SECTION 6254(A) a
a
b
b
PHASE 2a
PHASE 2a
PHASE 2b
PHASE 2b
ATTACHMENT "B"
1031
City of Salinas
Legislation Text
200 Lincoln Ave., Salinas,
CA 93901
www.salinas.gov
File #: ID#26-276, Version: 1
Authorization to Submit FY 2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Application for Lifepak 35 Cardiac Monitors
Approve a Resolution authorizing the Salinas Fire Department to submit a Fiscal Year 2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grant application for 11 Stryker LIFEPAK 35 cardiac monitor/defibrillators.

City of Salinas Page 1 of 1 Printed on 6/13/2026
powered by Legistar™1032
Page | 1
RESOLUTION NO.

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SUBMISSION OF A FISCAL YEAR 2025 ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTERS GRANT APPLICATION FOR LIFEPAK 35

CARDIAC MONITORS
WHEREAS, the Federal Emergency Management Agency administers the Fiscal Year 2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program to help fire departments obtain equipment and resources that improve firefighter and public safety; and WHEREAS, the Salinas Fire Department seeks to replace aging LIFEPAK 15 cardiac monitor/defibrillators with Stryker LIFEPAK 35 units for frontline advanced life support response; and
WHEREAS, the Salinas Fire Department uses cardiac monitors on high-acuity medical incidents including cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, trauma, and other critical events; and WHEREAS, the Department’s existing LIFEPAK 15 devices are aging and approaching or exceeding manufacturer-recommended service timelines WHEREAS, the estimated project cost is $732,000, and the City would be responsible for the required local cost share of 10% if the grant is awarded.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Salinas City Council authorizes the Fire Department to submit a Fiscal Year 2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grant application for the replacement of Stryker LIFEPAK cardiac monitor/defibrillators and related eligible costs.

PASSED AND APPROVED this 16th day of June 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

APPROVED:
_______________________
Dennis Donohue, Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________
Patricia M. Soratos, City Clerk
1033
1 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
Fiscal Year 2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program Fraud, waste, abuse, mismanagement, and other criminal or noncriminal misconduct related to this program may be reported to the Office of Inspector General (OIG) Hotline. The toll-free numbers to call are 1 (800) 323-8603 and TTY 1 (844) 889-4357.

Contents

1. Basic Information .................................................................................................................... 3 A. Agency Name ............................................................................................................................. 4 B. NOFO Title ................................................................................................................................ 4 C. Announcement Type .................................................................................................................. 4 D. Funding Opportunity Number .................................................................................................... 4 E. Assistance Listing Number ........................................................................................................ 4 F. Expected Total Funding ............................................................................................................. 4 G. Anticipated Number of Awards ................................................................................................. 4 H. Expected Award Range ............................................................................................................. 4 I. Projected Application Start Date ................................................................................................. 4 J. Projected Application End Date .................................................................................................. 4 K. Anticipated Funding Selection Date .......................................................................................... 4 L. Anticipated Award Date ............................................................................................................. 4 M. Projected Period of Performance Start Date ............................................................................. 5 N. Projected Period of Performance End Date ............................................................................... 5 O. Executive Summary ................................................................................................................... 5 P. Agency Contact .......................................................................................................................... 5

2. Eligibility ................................................................................................................................. 6 A. Eligible Entities/Entity Types .................................................................................................... 6 B. Project Type Eligibility .............................................................................................................. 8 C. Requirements for Personnel, Partners, and Other Parties .......................................................... 8 D. Maximum Number of Applications ........................................................................................... 9 E. Additional Restrictions ............................................................................................................... 9 F. References for Eligibility Factors within the NOFO ................................................................ 10 G. Cost Sharing Requirement ....................................................................................................... 10 H. Cost Share Description, Type and Restrictions ....................................................................... 10 I. Cost Sharing Calculation Example............................................................................................ 11 J. Required information for verifying Cost Share ........................................................................ 11

3. Program Description ................................................................................................................. 11 A. Background, Program Purpose, and Program History .......................................................... 11 B. Goals and Objectives ............................................................................................................. 12 C. Program Rationale ................................................................................................................ 12 D. Federal Assistance Type ........................................................................................................ 13 E. Performance Measures and Targets ...................................................................................... 13 1034
2 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
F. General Funding Requirements............................................................................................. 13 G. Indirect Costs (Facilities and Administrative Costs)............................................................. 14 H. Management and Administration (M&A) Costs................................................................... 15 I. Pre-Award Costs.................................................................................................................... 15 J. Beneficiary Eligibility ........................................................................................................... 15 K. Participant Eligibility ............................................................................................................ 15 L. Authorizing Authority ........................................................................................................... 15 M. Appropriation Authority........................................................................................................ 15 N. Budget Period........................................................................................................................ 15 O. Prohibition on Covered Equipment or Services.................................................................... 16

4. Application Contents and Format ............................................................................................. 16 A. Pre-Application, Letter of Intent, and Whitepapers.............................................................. 16 B. Application Content and Format ........................................................................................... 16 C. Application Components....................................................................................................... 16 D. Program-Specific Required Documents and Information..................................................... 16 E. Post-Application Requirements for Successful Applicants................................................... 16

5. Submission Requirements and Deadlines................................................................................. 16 A. Address to Request Application Package.............................................................................. 17 B. Application Deadline............................................................................................................. 19 C. Pre-Application Requirements Deadline............................................................................... 19 D. Post-Application Requirements Deadline ............................................................................. 19 E. Effects of Missing the Deadline ............................................................................................ 19

6. Intergovernmental Review........................................................................................................ 19 A. Requirement Description and State Single Point of Contact ................................................ 19

7. Application Review Information .............................................................................................. 20 A. Threshold Criteria.................................................................................................................. 20 B. Application Criteria............................................................................................................... 20 C. Financial Integrity Criteria .................................................................................................... 22 D. Supplemental Financial Integrity Criteria and Review ......................................................... 22 E. Reviewers and Reviewer Selection ....................................................................................... 22 F. Merit Review Process............................................................................................................ 22 G. Final Selection....................................................................................................................... 24

8. Award Notices .......................................................................................................................... 24 A. Notice of Award .................................................................................................................... 24 B. Pass-Through Requirements.................................................................................................. 25 C. Note Regarding Pre-Award Costs......................................................................................... 25 D. Obligation of Funds............................................................................................................... 25 E. Notification to Unsuccessful Applicants............................................................................... 25

9. Post-Award Requirements and Administration ........................................................................ 25 A. Administrative and National Policy Requirements............................................................... 25 B. DHS Standard Terms and Conditions................................................................................... 26 C. Financial Reporting Requirements........................................................................................ 27 D. Programmatic Performance Reporting Requirements........................................................... 27 E. Closeout Reporting Requirements......................................................................................... 28 F. Disclosing Information per 2 C.F.R. § 180.335 .................................................................... 29 1035
3 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
G. Reporting of Matters Related to Recipient Integrity and Performance ................................. 29 H. Single Audit Report ............................................................................................................... 29 I. Monitoring and Oversight ..................................................................................................... 30 J. Program Evaluation ............................................................................................................... 30 K. Additional Performance Reporting Requirements ................................................................ 30 L. Termination of Federal Award .............................................................................................. 31 M. Best Practices ........................................................................................................................ 33 N. Payment Information ............................................................................................................. 33 O. Immigration Conditions ........................................................................................................ 35

10. Other Information ................................................................................................................... 35 A. Period of Performance Extension .......................................................................................... 35 B. Other Information .................................................................................................................. 36

11. Appendices .............................................................................................................................. 42 A. Appendix A – Changes .......................................................................................................... 42 B. Appendix B – Programmatic Information and Priorities ...................................................... 42 Supporting Definitions for this NOFO: ........................................................................................ 44 Community Classifications: .......................................................................................................... 45 Restrictions on Uses of Award Funds: .......................................................................................... 46 Funding Priorities: Operations and Safety – Training .................................................................. 47 Funding Priorities for Fire Departments and Nonaffiliated EMS Organizations Training .......... 50 Operations and Safety – Equipment Overview ............................................................................. 52 Operations and Safety – Wellness and Fitness Overview ............................................................ 64 Operations and Safety – Modifications to Facilities Overview .................................................... 66 Regional Applications Overview .................................................................................................. 68 Vehicle Acquisition Guidelines .................................................................................................... 70 C. Appendix C – Award Administration Information ............................................................... 76

1. Basic Information
1036
4 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
A. Agency Name U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Resilience/Grant Programs Directorate (GPD).

B. NOFO Title Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program
C. Announcement
Type
Initial
D. Funding
Opportunity Number
DHS-25-GPD-044-00-98
E. Assistance Listing
Number

97.044
F. Expected Total
Funding
$291,600,000
G. Anticipated
Number of Awards
1,800 awards
H. Expected Award
Range
N/A
I. Projected
Application Start
Date
05/19/2026 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time (ET)
J. Projected
Application End Date
06/22/2026 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET)
K. Anticipated
Funding Selection
Date
No later than 09/30/2026
L. Anticipated
Award Date
Beginning on approximately August 31, 2026, and continuing thereafter until all FY 2025 AFG Program grant awards are issued (but no later than September 30, 2026).
1037
5 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
M. Projected Period
of Performance Start
Date
Variable Start Date1
N. Projected Period
of Performance End
Date
Variable End Date
O. Executive
Summary
The AFG Program aims to deliver essential resources to equip and train emergency personnel to meet recognized standards. It provides funding to outfit responders with compliant personal protective equipment to enhance their safety during incident response, retrofit or modify facilities to address known health hazards, and acquire emergency response vehicles. Additionally, the program supports the development of health, wellness, and resiliency initiatives to prepare responders for incidents, improve operational efficiency, promote interoperability, and strengthen community resilience.

P. Agency Contact a. Fire Grants Program Office Contact The Fire Grants Program Help Desk provides technical assistance to applicants for completing and submitting applications into FEMA Grants Outcomes (FEMA GO), answers questions about applicant eligibility, recipient responsibilities, and provides support for the programmatic administration of awards. The Fire Grants Program Help Desk can be contact at (866) 274-0960 or by email
at [email protected]. Normal hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET.
b. FEMA Grants News
This channel provides general information on all FEMA grant programs and maintains a comprehensive database containing key personnel contact information at the federal, state, and local levels.

FEMA Grants News Team is reachable at fema-grants[email protected] OR (800) 368-6498, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET.
c. Grant Programs Directorate (GPD) Award Administration Division
GPD’s Award Administration Division (AAD) provides support regarding financial matters and budgetary technical assistance. AAD can be contacted at [email protected].
1 FEMA funds AFG Program awards on a rolling basis; as such, the date the FEMA Assistant Administrator for the Grant Programs Directorate signs the obligating document dictates the unique Period of Performance start and end dates for each award. 1038
6 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
d. FEMA Regional Offices
FEMA Regional Offices also may provide fiscal support, including pre- and post-award administration and technical assistance. FEMA Regional Office contact information is available at
https://www.fema.gov/fema-regional-contacts.
e. Civil Rights
Consistent with Executive Order 14173, Ending Illegal Discrimination & Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity, the FEMA Integration and Coordination Division (ICD) is responsible for ensuring compliance with and enforcement of federal civil rights obligations in connection with programs and services conducted by FEMA. They are reachable at [email protected].
f. Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation
The FEMA Office of Environmental Planning and Historic
Preservation (OEHP) provides guidance and information about the EHP review process to FEMA programs and recipients and
subrecipients. Send any inquiries regarding compliance for FEMA grant projects under this NOFO to FEMA-OEHP[email protected]. g. Payment and Reporting System
FEMA uses FEMA Grants Outcomes (FEMA GO) for financial
reporting, invoicing, and tracking payments. The Direct Deposit/Electronic Funds Transfer (DD/EFT) method of payment is used for recipients. For any questions about the system, contact the FEMA GO helpdesk at [email protected] or (877) 585-3242, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM ET.
h. FEMA GO
For technical assistance with the FEMA GO system, please contact the FEMA GO Helpdesk at [email protected] or (877) 585-3242, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM ET.

2. Eligibility
A. Eligible
Entities/Entity Types
Only the following entities or entity types are eligible to apply. a. Applicants
The following entities or entity types located in the 50 United States, District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or any federally recognized tribal government or organization are eligible to apply. If you are unsure of 1039
7 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
your entity, please see: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-44/part152#p-152.1(b). See Supporting Definitions for this NOFO:
• Fire Departments: Fire departments operating in any of the 50 states, as well as fire departments in the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the U.S.

Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth
of Puerto Rico,2 three or any federally recognized Indian tribe or tribal organization. A fire department is an agency or organization having a formally recognized arrangement with a state, local, tribal or territorial authority (city, county, parish, fire district, township, town or other governing body) to provide fire suppression to a population within a
geographically fixed primary first due response area.
• Nonaffiliated EMS organizations: Nonaffiliated EMS
organizations operating in any of the 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern
Mariana Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico,2
three or any
federally recognized tribal organization. A nonaffiliated EMS organization is an agency or organization that is a public or private nonprofit emergency medical service entity providing medical transport that is not affiliated with a hospital and does not serve a geographic area in which emergency medical
services are adequately provided by a fire department. FEMA considers the following as hospitals under the AFG Program:
• Clinics;
• Medical centers;
• Medical colleges or universities;
• Infirmaries;
• Surgery centers; and
• Any other institution, association, or foundation providing medical, surgical or psychiatric care and/or treatment for the sick or injured. State Fire Training Academies: A SFTA
operates in any of the 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
2 The District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico are all defined as “States” in the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974. See 15 U.S.C. § 2203(10).
1040
8 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Applicants must be
designated either by legislation or by a governor’s declaration as the sole fire service training agency within a state, territory, or the District of Columbia and recognized by the National Fire Academy. The designated SFTA shall be the only agency, bureau, division or entity within that state, territory, or the District of Columbia, to be an eligible SFTA applicant under the AFG Program.

Non-federal airport and/or port authority fire or EMS organizations are eligible only if they have a formally recognized arrangement with the local jurisdiction to provide fire suppression or emergency medical services on a first-due basis outside the confines of the airport or port facilities. Airport or port authority fire and EMS organizations whose sole responsibility is suppression of fires or EMS response on the airport grounds or port facilities are not eligible for funding under the AFG Program.
b. Subapplicants
Subapplicants and subawards are not allowed.

Subapplicants should not have foreign nationals or noncitizens included. If a subapplicant has foreign nationals, they must be properly vetted and must adhere to all government statutes, policies, and procedures including “staff American, stay in America” and security requirements.

B. Project Type
Eligibility
Allowable Project Types
• Operations and Safety;
• Vehicle Acquisition; and
• Regional Projects.

C. Requirements for
Personnel, Partners,
and Other Parties
An application submitted by an otherwise eligible non-federal entity (i.e. the applicant) may be deemed ineligible when the person that submitted the application is not 1) a current employee, personnel, official, staff or leadership of the non-federal entity; and 2) duly authorized to apply for an award on behalf of the non-federal entity at the time of application.

Further, the individual who signs and submits an application must be assigned the role of Authorized Organization Representative (AOR) within the FEMA GO system. The AOR must be a duly authorized 1041
9 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
current employee, personnel, official, staff or leadership of the recipient and provide an email address unique to the recipient at the time of application. Consultants or contractors of the recipient are not permitted to be the AOR of the recipient.

Federal employees are prohibited from serving in any capacity (paid or unpaid) on the development of any proposal submitted under this program.

Subapplicants should not have foreign nationals or noncitizens included. If a subapplicant has foreign nationals, they must be properly vetted and must adhere to all government statues, polices, and procedures including “staff American, stay in America” and security requirements.

Subapplicants/subrecipients must submit short bios and resumes.

This should include the type of entity, organizational leadership, and board members along with the both the names and addresses of the individuals. Resumes are subject to approval.

D. Maximum
Number of
Applications
The maximum number of applications that can be submitted by a single entity is three: one application for Operations and Safety, one application for Vehicle Acquisition, and one application as the host partner for a Regional Project.

E. Additional
Restrictions
a. National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) NERIS reporting is not required to apply for the AFG Program.

However, fire departments receiving funding must agree to report to NFIRS or NERIS during the performance period. If unable to report at the time of the award, recipients must establish reporting capacity within 24 months and report for at least 12 months once capable.

FEMA may request proof of compliance, and noncompliance during the performance period may result in remedies under 2 C.F.R. § 200.339. Nonaffiliated EMS organizations and SFTAs are exempt from NFIRS/NERIS reporting requirements.
b. National Incident Management System (NIMS)
AFG Program applicants are not required to comply with NIMS to apply for AFG Program funding or to receive an AFG Program award. However, any applicant who receives an FY 2025 AFG Program award must achieve the level of NIMS compliance required by the Authority having Jurisdiction (AHJ) over the applicant’s emergency service operations (e.g., a local government) prior to the end of the grant’s period of performance.
1042
10 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Applicants or recipients are required to certify their compliance with federal statutes, DHS directives, polices, and procedures c. Period of Performance (POP)
The POP for applications funded under the AFG will be 24 months.

F. References for
Eligibility Factors
within the NOFO
Please see the following references provided below:

1. “Responsiveness Review Criteria” subsection

2. “Financial Integrity Criteria” subsection

3. “Supplemental Financial Integrity Criteria and Review” subsection

4. FEMA may request financial information such as Employer Identification Number (EIN) and bank information as part of the potential award selection. This will apply to everyone prospered, including subrecipients.

5. Appendix B – Programmatic Information and Priorities G. Cost Sharing
Requirement
Applicants selected for this award must commit to an acceptable cost share agreement. Otherwise, they will not be funded. See Sections H and G for cost share requirements.

H. Cost Share
Description, Type
and Restrictions
Recipient cost sharing is required as described below pursuant to 15 U.S.C.§ 2229(k)(1). Recipients shall make available non-federal funds as described below:
• 5 percent for jurisdictions serving a population of 20,000 residents or fewer,
• 10 percent for jurisdictions serving a population of 20,000 up to 1 million residents,
• 15 percent for jurisdictions serving a population of over 1 million residents.
• For SFTAs, the cost share is based on the state's total population. For Regional applications, the cost share is based on the combined population of the primary response areas of the host and partner organizations outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding.

Types of Cost Share
i. Cash (Hard Match): Cost share of non-federal cash is the only allowable recipient contribution for AFG Program
activity (Vehicle Acquisition, Operations and Safety, and Regional).
ii. Trade-In Allowance/Credit: On a case-by-case basis, FEMA may allow recipients already owning assets acquired with nonfederal cash to use the trade-in allowance/credit value of those assets as cash for the purpose of meeting their cost share 1043
11 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
obligation. For FEMA to consider a trade-in allowance/credit value as cash, the allowance amount must be reasonable, and the allowance amount must be a separate entry clearly
identified in the acquisition documents.

In-kind (Soft Match): In-kind cost share is not allowable for the AFG Program.

I. Cost Sharing
Calculation Example
The cost share calculator is located
here: https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_gpdfy23-afg-cost-share-calculator.pdf Total Allowable Costs ÷ Percentage Cost Share = Federal Share to be requested
$10,000 ÷ 1.05 (5%) = $9,523.80
$10,000 ÷ 1.10 (10%) = $9,090.90
$10,000 ÷ 1.15 (15%) = $8,695.65
J. Required
information for
verifying Cost Share
Applicants must submit their plan for cost share within the Request Details (budget) section of the grant application.

Maintenance of Effort
Pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 2229(k)(3), an applicant seeking an AFG Program grant shall agree to maintain, during the term of the grant, the applicant’s aggregate expenditures relating to activities allowable under this NOFO, at not less than 80 percent of the average amount of such expenditures in the two fiscal years before the fiscal year an AFG Program grant is awarded.

In other words, an applicant agrees that if it receives a grant award, the applicant will keep its overall expenditures during the award’s period of performance for activities that could be allowable costs under this NOFO at a level that is at least 80 percent or more of the average of what the applicant spent on such costs for those activities in FY 2023 and 2024. This includes those funded with non-federal funding for activities that could be allowable costs under this NOFO.

Applicants must provide budget information for the year they are applying, as well as the two preceding years. For FY25, that would include the yearly budgets for 2025, 2024, and 2023.

3. Program Description
A. Background, Program Purpose, and Program History
1044
12 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
The AFG Program provides financial assistance directly to eligible fire departments, nonaffiliated emergency medical service (EMS) organizations, and State Fire Training Academies (SFTAs). The program aims to enhance the safety of firefighters and the public in relation to fire and fire-related hazards.

Since its inception, the AFG Program has awarded over $9 billion to help equip and train emergency personnel to recognized standards, improve operational efficiency, foster interoperability, and support community resilience. The program has provided fire apparatuses, personal protective equipment, facility modifications, wellness and fitness activities, and other fire equipment to more than 8,000 unique recipients.

For information about program success stories, visit FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants page: https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/firefighters/assistance-grants.

B. Goals and Objectives
Goal: Enhance the safety of the public and firefighters with respect to fire and fire-related hazards.

Objectives: Provide critically needed resources to:
• Equip and train emergency personnel to recognized standards, • Outfit responders with compliant personal protective equipment to increase responders’ physical protection against hazards during incident response, • Retrofit or modify facilities to protect personnel from known health hazards, • Acquire emergency response vehicles,
• Design and implement health, wellness, and resiliency programs that prepare responders for incident response,
• Enhance operational efficiencies, foster interoperability, and • Support community resilience.

C. Program Rationale
The AFG Program represents part of a comprehensive set of measures authorized by Congress and implemented by DHS. By increasing the number of trained firefighters, the AFG Program improves deployment capabilities to respond to emergencies and provide adequate protection from fire and fire-related hazards. The AFG Program also aims to support the following objectives:
• Coordinate Federal Response to Incidents
• Strengthen National Resilience
• Enhance Training and Readiness of First Responders
Through these objectives, FEMA creates a vision for the field of emergency management and sets an ambitious, yet achievable, path forward to unify and further professionalize emergency management across the country. We invite all our stakeholders and partners to join us in building a more prepared and resilient nation.
1045
13 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
D. Federal Assistance Type
Grant
E. Performance Measures and Targets
Grant recipients must collect data to allow FEMA to measure performance of AFG Program grants. These metrics align with the program’s objectives and priorities. FEMA may request information throughout the period of performance. At closeout recipients must submit a final performance report with enough information to show they met the performance goals outlined in their award.

FEMA will assess performance by comparing the number of items, supplies, projects, and activities requested in its application with the number acquired and delivered by the end of the performance period. The following program metrics will be used:
• Percentage of active-duty members equipped with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)-compliant personal protective equipment (PPE) for each department that received AFG Program funding. • Percentage of active-duty members who were equipped with NFPA and OSHA compliant equipment for each department that receives AFG Program funding. • Number of fire vehicles successfully replaced per industry standards at each department funded to replace fire vehicles.
• Percentage of new active-duty members achieving Firefighter Training Levels I and II within one year of coming into service at each department funded for training. • Percentage of the facility modifications required to comply with state, local, NFPA, or OSHA standards on housing and readiness posture that were successfully made for each department funded for facility modifications.
• Percentage of active-duty members meeting physical/mental readiness requirements through health programs at each department funded for wellness and fitness.

F. General Funding Requirements
Costs charged to federal awards (including federal and non-federal cost share funds) must comply with applicable statutes, rules and regulations, policies, this NOFO, and the terms and conditions of the federal award. This includes, among other requirements, that costs must be incurred, and products and services must be delivered within the budget period. 2 C.F.R. § 200.403(h).

Population of the jurisdiction served
by the recipient
Maximum award in FY
2025
Statutory waiver available
subject to extraordinary need?
100,000 or fewer No more than $1
million
None available
100,001 – 500,000 people No more than $2
million
None available
1046
14 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
500,001 – 1,000,000 people No more than $2.91
million
None available
1,000,001 – 2,500,000 people No more than $2.91
million
Yes, but no more than $6
million
More than 2,500,000 people No more than
$2.91million
Yes, but no more than $9
million
Regional applicants will be subject to the funding limitations based on the total population served by the host of the application and the participating partners. For example, if the host and partners serve a population of 100,000 or fewer and are the recipients of a Regional award for $1 million, then the host has met their cap and is no longer eligible for additional funds under the AFG Program.

Allocations and Restrictions of Available Grant Funds by Organization Type • Fire Departments: Not less than 25% of available grant funds shall be awarded to career, combination, or volunteer department types (total of 75%). • Nonaffiliated EMS Organizations: Not more than 2% of available grant funds shall be collectively awarded to all nonaffiliated EMS organization recipients. • Emergency Medical Services Providers: Not less than 3.5% of available grant funds shall fund emergency medical services provided by fire departments and nonaffiliated EMS organizations.
• State Fire Training Academy: Not more than 3% of available grant funds shall be collectively awarded to all SFTA recipients. Further, not more than $500,000 of available federal grant funds may be awarded per SFTA applicant.
• Vehicles: Not more than 25% of available grant funds may be used by recipients for the purchase of vehicles. Of that amount, based on stakeholder recommendations, FEMA intends to allocate 10% of the total vehicle funds for ambulances. • Micro Grants: The selection of the voluntary Micro Grant option (cumulative federal funding of $75,000) for eligible High Priority Operations and Safety activities does not impact an applicant’s request or participation under the Vehicle Acquisition or Regional projects. Applicants who select Micro Grants under Operations and Safety as a funding opportunity choice may still apply for a Vehicle Acquisition or Regional project. Of the 25% allocated to each of the career, combination, and volunteer departments, FEMA will aim to fund no less than 25% of the allocation for Micro Grants.

Recipients may not use federal funds or any cost share funds for the following activities:
• Matching or cost sharing requirements for other federal grants and cooperative agreements (see 2 C.F.R. § 200.306).
• Lobbying or other prohibited activities under 18 U.S.C. § 1913 or 2 C.F.R. § 200.450. • Prosecuting claims against the federal government or any other government entity (see 2 C.F.R. § 200.435).

G. Indirect Costs (Facilities and Administrative Costs) Indirect costs are NOT allowed.
1047
15 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
H. Management and Administration (M&A) Costs
M&A costs are allowed.

M&A costs are allowed by Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025, Pub.

L. No. 119-4. M&A activities are those directly related to the management and administration of the AFG award funds, such as financial management and monitoring.

M&A expenses should be based only on actual expenses or known contractual costs. Requests that are simple percentages of the award, without supporting justification or adequate documentation, will not be considered for an award.

M&A are not overhead/operational costs but are necessary direct costs incurred in support of the federal award or because of it, such as travel, meeting-related expenses, and salaries of full/parttime staff in direct support of the program. As such, M&A costs can be itemized in financial reports.

I. Pre-Award Costs
The following pre-award costs are allowable:

1. Fees for Grant Writers (capped at $1,500 of federal funds per application) The recipient must request approval from FEMA to incur such pre-award costs. Requests must be sent via email to [email protected] and include the application number and justification narrative. Please note, the recipient must seek approval at the time of acquisition and before the award is announced.

FEMA must provide written confirmation that the costs have been reviewed and determined the costs are justified, unavoidable, and consistent with the grant’s scope of work.

Pre-award costs must comply with 2 C.F.R. § 200.458, ensuring they are necessary for the efficient and timely performance of the grant.

J. Beneficiary Eligibility
There are no program requirements to be an eligible beneficiary. This NOFO and any subsequent federal awards create no rights or causes of action for any beneficiary.

K. Participant Eligibility
There are no program requirements to be an eligible participant. This NOFO and any subsequent federal awards create no rights or causes of action for any participant.

L. Authorizing Authority
Section 33 of The Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974, Pub. L. No. 93-498, as amended (15 U.S.C § 2229).

M. Appropriation Authority
Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025, Pub. L. No. 119-4 § 1101.

N. Budget Period
1048
16 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
There will be only a single budget period with the same start and end dates as the period of performance.

O. Prohibition on Covered Equipment or Services
Recipients, sub-recipients, and their contractors or subcontractors must comply with the prohibitions set forth in Section 889 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019, which restrict the purchase of covered telecommunications and surveillance equipment and services. Please see 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.216, 200.327, 200.471, and Appendix II to 2 C.F.R. Part 200, and FEMA Policy #405-143-1 - Prohibitions on Expending FEMA Award Funds for Covered Telecommunications Equipment or Services for more information.

4. Application Contents and Format
A. Pre-Application, Letter of Intent, and Whitepapers
Pre-applications, letters of intent, and whitepapers are not required nor encouraged to be eligible to apply.

B. Application Content and Format
Applications are processed through the FEMA GO system. To access the system, go to https://go.fema.gov/.

Applications must include information regarding department and program-specific priorities, details demonstrating department eligibility, and four narratives: Financial Need, Project Description, Cost/Benefit, and Statement of Effect. Each narrative section has a limit of 4,000 characters, including spaces.

C. Application Components
All applicable forms are in the FEMA GO system and filled out as part of the application submission process. The forms below do not require separate upload. The following forms will be filled out during the application process in FEMA GO:
• SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance
• Grants.gov Lobbying Form, Certification Regarding Lobbying • SF-424A, Budget Information (Non-Construction)
• SF-424B, Standard Assurances (Non-Construction)
• SF-LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities
D. Program-Specific Required Documents and Information
For program specific updates and information please see Appendices A, B, and C.

E. Post-Application Requirements for Successful Applicants Applicants likely to be funded may receive a request for additional information by email prior to award. Applicants must respond to the request to move forward with the grant review process.

5. Submission Requirements and Deadlines
1049
17 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
A. Address to Request Application Package
Applications are processed through the FEMA GO system. To access the system, go to https://go.fema.gov/.

Steps Required to Apply for an Award Under This Program and Submit an Application:

To apply for an award under this program, all applicants must:
a. Apply for, update, or verify their Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number and Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service; b. In the application, provide an UEI number;
c. Have an account with login.gov;
d. Register for, update, or verify their System for Award Management (SAM) account and ensure the account is active before submitting the application; e. Register in FEMA GO, add the organization to the system, and establish the Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR). The organization’s electronic business point of contact (eBiz POC) from the SAM registration may need to be involved in this step. For step-by-step instructions, see https://www.fema.gov/medialibrary/assets/documents/181607; f. Submit the complete application in FEMA GO; and
g. Continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active federal award or an application or plan under consideration by a federal awarding agency. As part of this, applicants must also provide information on an applicant’s immediate and highest-level owner and subsidiaries, as well as on all predecessors that have been awarded federal contracts or federal financial assistance within the last three years, if applicable.

Per 2 C.F.R. § 25.110(a)(2)(iv), if an applicant is experiencing exigent circumstances that prevents it from obtaining an UEI number and completing SAM registration prior to receiving a federal award, the applicant must notify FEMA as soon as possible. Contact fema-grants[email protected] and provide the details of the exigent circumstances.

How to Register to Apply:

General Instructions:

Registering and applying for an award under this program is a multi-step process and requires time to complete. Below are instructions for registering to apply for FEMA funds. Read the instructions carefully and prepare the requested information before beginning the registration process. Gathering the required information before starting the process will alleviate last-minute searches for required information.
1050
18 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
The registration process can take up to four weeks to complete. To ensure an application meets the deadline, applicants are advised to start the required steps well in advance of their submission.

Organizations must have a UEI number, EIN, and an active SAM registration.

Obtain a UEI Number:

All entities applying for funding, including renewal funding, must have a UEI number.

Applicants must enter the UEI number in the applicable data entry field on the SF-424 form. For more detailed instructions for obtaining a UEI number, refer to SAM.gov.

Obtain Employer Identification Number:

In addition to having a UEI number, all entities applying for funding must provide an EIN. The EIN can be obtained from the IRS by visiting https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businessesself-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online.

Create a login.gov account:

Applicants must have a login.gov account in order to register with SAM or update their SAM registration. Applicants can create a login.gov account at:
https://secure.login.gov/sign_up/enter_email?request_id=34f19fa8-14a2-438c-8323- a62b99571fd.

Applicants only have to create a login.gov account once. For existing SAM users, use the same email address for both login.gov and SAM.gov so that the two accounts can be linked.

For more information on the login.gov requirements for SAM registration, refer to https://www.sam.gov/SAM/pages/public/loginFAQ.jsf.

Register with SAM:

In addition to having a UEI number, all organizations must register with SAM. Failure to register with SAM will prevent your organization from applying through FEMA GO. SAM registration must be renewed annually and must remain active throughout the entire grant life cycle.

For more detailed instructions for registering with SAM, refer to: Register with SAM Note: per 2 C.F.R. § 25.200 , applicants must also provide the applicant’s immediate and highest-level owner, subsidiaries, and predecessors that have been awarded federal contracts or federal financial assistance within the past three years, if applicable.

Register in FEMA GO, Add the Organization to the System, and Establish the AOR:

Applicants must register in FEMA GO and add their organization to the system. The organization’s electronic business point of contact (eBiz POC) from the SAM registration may need to be involved in this step. For step-by-step instructions, see: FEMA GO Startup Guide Note: FEMA GO will support only the most recent major release of the following browsers:
1051
19 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Google Chrome;
• Mozilla Firefox;
• Apple Safari; and
• Microsoft Edge.

Applicants using tablet type devices or other browsers may encounter issues with using FEMA GO.

Submitting the Final Application:

Applicants will be prompted to submit the standard application information, and any programspecific information required. Standard Forms (SF) may be accessed in the Forms tab under the:

SF-424 Family | Grants.gov.

Applicants should review these forms before applying to ensure they are providing all required information.

After submitting the final application, FEMA GO will provide either an error message, or an email to the submitting AOR confirming the transmission was successfully received.

B. Application Deadline
06/22/2026 05:00 PM Eastern Time
C. Pre-Application Requirements Deadline
Not applicable
D. Post-Application Requirements Deadline
Not applicable
E. Effects of Missing the Deadline
All applications must be completed in FEMA GO by the application deadline. FEMA GO automatically records proof of submission and generates an electronic date/time stamp when FEMA GO successfully receives an application. The submitting AOR will receive via email the official date/time stamp and a FEMA GO tracking number to serve as proof of timely submission prior to the application deadline.

Applicants experiencing system-related issues have until 3:00 PM ET on the date applications are due to notify FEMA. No new system-related issues will be addressed after this deadline. Applications not received by the application submission deadline will not be accepted.

6. Intergovernmental Review
A. Requirement Description and State Single Point of Contact An intergovernmental review may be required. Applicants must contact their state’s Single Point of Contact (SPOC) to comply with the state’s process under Executive Order 12372. 1052
20 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO

7. Application Review Information
A. Threshold Criteria
Automatic disqualification of the application will occur if any of the conditions and instructions are not followed in Appendix B of this Notice of Funding Opportunity.

Examples of ineligible applications and/or organizations include:
• Nonaffiliated EMS organization requests for any activity that is specific or unique to structural/proximity/wildfire firefighting gear.
• Fire departments that are a federal government entity, or contracted by the federal government, and are solely responsible under a formally recognized agreement for suppression of fires on federal installations or land.
• Fire departments or nonaffiliated EMS organizations that are not independent entities but are part of, controlled by, or under the day-to-day operational command and control of a larger department, agency or AHJ.
• However, if a fire department is considered to be the same legal entity as a municipality or other governmental organization, and otherwise meets the eligibility criteria, that municipality or other governmental organization may apply on behalf of that fire department as long as the application clearly states that the fire department is considered part of the same legal entity.
• Fire-based EMS organization applying as a nonaffiliated EMS organization. • Auxiliaries, hospitals, or fire service associations or interest organizations that are not the AHJ over the applicant.
• Dive teams, search and rescue squads, or similar organizations that do not provide medical transport.
• Fire departments, regional, or nonaffiliated EMS organizations that are for profit. • State or local agencies, or subsets of any governmental entity, or any authority that do not meet the requirements as defined by 15 U.S.C. §2229 (a), (c). • Submitting multiple applications for the same equipment or activity (e.g., self-contained breathing apparatus [SCBA] under both Regional and Operations and Safety activities, or two applications for the same vehicle) may result in disqualification of both applications.

This rule does not apply if an applicant is applying on behalf of multiple agencies (e.g., fire departments within the same county or city). In such cases, the applicant can request similar equipment, as long as the application clearly specifies the equipment and quantities for each agency. Multiple applications across regional and direct categories are allowed in this scenario.
.

B. Application Criteria
FEMA sets funding priorities and evaluation criteria for AFG Program applications based on recommendations from the Criteria Development Panel (CDP). Each year, FEMA brings together a panel of fire service professionals to establish these priorities and criteria. The panel provides input on funding priorities and helps develop the criteria used to award grants.

The nine major fire service organizations represented on the panel are:
• International Association of Fire Chiefs
1053
21 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• International Association of Fire Fighters
• National Volunteer Fire Council
• National Fire Protection Association
• National Association of State Fire Marshals
• International Association of Arson Investigators
• International Society of Fire Service Instructors
• North American Fire Training Directors
• Congressional Fire Service Institute
CDP and Application Evaluation
CDP advises FEMA on creating or updating funding priorities and developing criteria for awarding grants. This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) reflects the CDP’s recommendations regarding priorities, direction, and award criteria.

FEMA ranks all complete applications based on how well they align with the program priorities for the specific activity. Responses to the activity-specific questions in the application are used to determine each application’s ranking relative to these priorities.

AFG Program applications go through a multi-phase review process:
1) Electronic Pre-Scoring
2) Peer Review
3) FEMA Internal Review

1. Electronic Pre-Scoring
The application undergoes an electronic pre-scoring process based on established program priorities listed in Appendix B and answers to activity-specific questions within the online application. Application Narratives are not reviewed during the pre- score process. “Request Details” and “Budget” information should comply with program guidance and statutory funding limitations. The pre-score is half of the total application score.

2. Peer Review
Applications with the highest rankings from the pre-scoring process will undergo a Peer Review Panel process. A panel of peer reviewers is composed of fire service personnel recommended by national fire organizations. Peer reviewers will assess each application’s merits based on the narrative statement on the requested activity. The evaluation elements listed in the “Narrative Evaluation Criteria” below will be used to calculate the narrative’s score for each activity requested. Peer reviewers will independently score each requested activity within the application, discuss the merits and/or shortcomings of the application with his or her peers, and document the findings. A consensus is not required. The panel score is half of the total application score. Peer reviewers will evaluate and select a score of Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, or Strongly Disagree for each narrative section based on the following narrative elements within each activity.

3. FEMA Internal Review
1054
22 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Applications within the fundable range undergo a Technical Review by subject-matter experts and a FEMA Program Office review. The FEMA Program Office evaluates costs, quantities, feasibility, eligibility, and recipient responsibility before recommending awards. During TEP, Appendix B is used to address eligibility corrections, though this phase is not scored. Partial funding may be recommended based on assessment findings.

C. Financial Integrity Criteria
Before making an award, FEMA is required to review OMB-designated databases for applicants’ eligibility and financial integrity information. This is required by the Payment Integrity Information Act of 2019 (Pub. L. No. 116-117, § 2 (2020)), 41 U.S.C. § 2313, and the “Do Not Pay Initiative” (31 U.S.C. 3354). For more details, please see 2 C.F.R. § 200.206.

Thus, the Financial Integrity Criteria may include the following risk-based considerations of the applicant:

1. Financial stability.

2. Quality of management systems and ability to meet management standards.

3. History of performance in managing federal award.

4. Reports and findings from audits.

5. Ability to effectively implement statutory, regulatory, or other requirements.

D. Supplemental Financial Integrity Criteria and Review Before making an award expected to exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, defined at 41 U.S.C. § 134, over the period of performance:

1. FEMA is required by 41 U.S.C. § 2313 to review or consider certain information found in SAM.gov. For details, please see 2 C.F.R. § 200.206(a)(2).

2. An applicant may review and comment on any information in the responsibility/qualification records available in SAM.gov.

3. Before making decisions in the risk review required by 2 C.F.R. § 200.206, FEMA will consider any comments by the applicant.

E. Reviewers and Reviewer Selection
All applications will be evaluated through the Peer Review Panel process. A panel of peer reviewers is comprised of fire service representatives recommended by the CDP.

F. Merit Review Process
Applications with the highest rankings from the pre-scoring process will undergo a Peer Review Panel process.

Narrative Evaluation Criteria
Narrative Statements are a key part of the application process and must provide clear, detailed, and specific information about the proposed activities for which funding is requested. Applicants 1055
23 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
must explain how the proposed activities align with the Operations and Safety Activity or the Vehicle Acquisition Activity.

FEMA reviews applications for duplication, including narratives and statistical data. All elements of the Narrative Statements must be original, and all statistical data must be accurate.

Applications with narratives that include substantial copying of sentences or paragraphs or inaccurate data that could mislead reviewers may be disqualified. Falsification, fabrication, or plagiarism of other grant proposals will result in disqualification.

Peer review panelists will evaluate and score each project based on the narrative elements defined below. Each narrative section is limited to 4,000 characters, including spaces and punctuation
Financial Need
This section accounts for 25% of an application’s peer review score. It allows 4,000 characters (including spaces and punctuation).

Applicants must explain their financial need, detailing budget constraints, failed attempts to secure other funding, and showing that the financial distress is beyond their control, in line with the AFG Program's intent.

Project Description and Budget
This section accounts for 25% of an application’s peer review score. It allows 4,000 characters (including spaces and punctuation).

The Project Description and Budget statement should explain the project objectives, their connection to the budget, and risk analysis. Applicants should describe activities, align them with project objectives, their mission, and relevant requirements, and link expenses to operations, safety, and project goals.

Cost Benefit
This section accounts for 25% of an application’s peer review score. It allows 4,000 characters (including spaces and punctuation).

Applicants should explain how they will address operational and personnel safety needs, focusing on cost effectiveness and asset sharing. The statement should detail how grant funding will maximize benefits, including reasonable costs like overhead and administrative expenses.

Requests should align with the applicant's mission and show how funding will benefit their organization and personnel.

Statement of Effect on Operations
This section accounts for 25% of an application’s peer review score. It allows 4,000 characters (including spaces and punctuation).
1056
24 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
The Statement of Effect on Operations should explain how the funding will improve the organization’s effectiveness, daily operations, and risk reduction. Applicants should detail how often and in what capacity the requested items will be used, their benefits to the community, and how they enhance the ability to save lives and property. Jurisdictions emphasizing fire risk reduction through code enforcement and mitigation strategies, including FEMA-approved plans, may receive higher consideration.

G. Final Selection
Technical Evaluation Process (TEP)
The highest scoring project(s) for both activities will be considered within the fundable range.

Projects that are in the fundable range will undergo a Technical Review by the FEMA Program Office before being recommended for award. The FEMA Program Office will assess the request with respect to costs, quantities, feasibility, eligibility, and recipient responsibility prior to recommending any application for award. Additionally, FEMA will review whether the project duplicates other federally funded research or prevention activities. Once the TEP is complete, a final ranking of projects will be created. FEMA will award grants based on this final ranking and the ability to meet statutorily required funding limitations outlined in Appendix B - Programmatic Information and Priorities of this NOFO.

FEMA may not make a federal award until the applicant has complied with all applicable SAM requirements. Therefore, an applicant’s SAM registration must be active not only at the time of application, but also during the application review period and when FEMA is ready to make a federal award. Further, as noted above, an applicant’s or recipient’s SAM registration must remain active for the duration of an active federal award. If an applicant’s SAM registration is expired at the time of application, expires during application review, or expires any other time before award, FEMA may determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive a federal award and use that determination as a basis for making a federal award to another applicant. Requests may be recommended for partial funding based on findings made during this assessment.

In awarding grants, the FEMA Administrator is required to consider:
• The findings and recommendations of the Technical Evaluation Panel (TEP); • The degree to which an award will reduce deaths, injuries and property damage by reducing the risks associated with fire related and other hazards; • The extent of an applicant’s need for an AFG Program grant and the need to protect the United States as a whole; and
• The number of calls requesting or requiring a firefighting or emergency medical response received by an applicant.

8. Award Notices
A. Notice of Award
The Authorized Organization Representative (AOR) must carefully review the federal award package before accepting the award. The package includes instructions for administering the award as well as the terms and conditions.
1057
25 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
By submitting an application, applicants agree to comply with the requirements outlined in this NOFO and adhere to the terms and conditions of the federal award if selected.

FEMA will provide the federal award package electronically via FEMA GO. The package includes an Award Letter, Summary Award Memo, Agreement Articles, and Obligating Document. A notification email with the award package will be sent to the submitting AOR through the grant application system.

Recipients must accept their awards no later than 30 days from the award date. Recipients shall notify FEMA of their intent to accept the award and proceed with work via the FEMA GO system.

Funds will remain on hold until the recipient accepts the award in FEMA GO and satisfies all other award conditions, or until the award is rescinded. Failure to accept the grant award within the specified timeframe may result in a loss of funds.

During the review process, FEMA may have modified the application request(s). Any modifications will be detailed in the award package provided with the offer of an award. If the awarded activities, scope of work, or funding amounts differ from the original application, the recipient is only responsible for completing the activities funded by FEMA. The recipient is not obligated to start, modify, or complete any activities that were requested but not funded. The award package will outline any changes in the approved scope of work section.

B. Pass-Through Requirements
None
C. Note Regarding Pre-Award Costs
Even if pre-award costs are allowed, beginning performance is at the applicant’s risk.

D. Obligation of Funds
The grant funds are obligated in accordance with applicable laws, and no later than upon award.

E. Notification to Unsuccessful Applicants
FEMA will provide all applicants who do not receive a FY 2025 AFG Program award with a turndown notification after September 30, 2026.

9. Post-Award Requirements and Administration
A. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
Presidential Executive Orders
Recipients must comply with the requirements of Presidential Executive Orders related to grants (also known as federal assistance and financial assistance), the full text of which are incorporated by reference. Pursuant to the preliminary injunction order issued on November 21, 2025, in County of Santa Clara et al. v. Noem, et al., No. 25-cv-08330-WHO (N.D. Cal.), this requirement does not apply to awards or subawards issued to any of the plaintiffs subject to the preliminary injunction order while the order remains in effect. If the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, this requirement will immediately become effective. Also, 1058
26 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
pursuant to the preliminary injunction order issued on November 21, 2025, in City of Chicago et al. v. Noem, et al., No. 25-CV-12765 (N.D. Ill.), this requirement does not apply to awards or subawards issued to any of the plaintiffs subject to the preliminary injunction order while the order remains in effect. If the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, this requirement will immediately become effective.

In accordance with Executive Order 14305, Restoring American Airspace Sovereignty (June 6, 2025), and to the extent allowed by law, eligible state, local, tribal, and territorial grant recipients under this NOFO are permitted to purchase unmanned aircraft systems, otherwise known as drones, or equipment or services for the detection, tracking, or identification of drones and drone signals, consistent with the legal authorities of state, local, tribal, and territorial agencies.

Recipients must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, and adhere to any statutory requirements on the use of federal funds for such unmanned aircraft systems, equipment, or services.

B. DHS Standard Terms and Conditions
A recipient under this funding opportunity must comply with the DHS Standard Terms and Conditions in effect as of the date of the federal award, unless a term and condition specifically indicates otherwise. The DHS Standard Terms and Conditions are available online: DHS Standard Terms and Conditions | Homeland Security. For continuation awards, the terms and conditions for the initial federal award will apply unless otherwise specified in the terms and conditions of the continuation award. The specific version of the DHS Standard Terms and Conditions applicable to the federal award will be in the federal award package.

A recipient under this funding opportunity must comply with the FY 2026 Department of Homeland Security Standard Terms and Conditions, with the following exceptions. The term titled “Communication and Cooperation with the Department of Homeland Security and Immigration Officials” and paragraph (2)(a)(ii) of the term titled “Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act” do not apply to any federal award under this funding opportunity.

Pursuant to the preliminary injunction order issued on November 21, 2025, in County of Santa Clara et al. v. Noem, et al., No. 25-cv-08330-WHO (N.D. Cal.), the following terms and conditions do not apply to awards or subawards issued to any of the plaintiffs subject to the preliminary injunction order while the order remains in effect: (1) The DHS Standard Term and Condition titled " Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act "; and (2) the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled "All Executive Orders Related to Grants". If the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, both terms will immediately become effective. As stated above, Paragraph (2)(a)(ii) of the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled “Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act” will not apply even if the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished.

Pursuant to the preliminary injunction order issued on November 21, 2025, in City of Chicago et al. v. Noem, et al., No. 25-CV-12765 (N.D. Ill.), the following terms and conditions do not apply to awards or subawards issued to any of the plaintiffs subject to the preliminary injunction order while the order remains in effect: (1) the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled " Federal 1059
27 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act"; and (2) the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled " All Executive Orders Related to Grants". If the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, both terms will immediately become effective. As stated above, paragraph (2)(a)(ii) of the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled “Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act” will not apply even if the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished.

Pursuant to the preliminary injunction order issued on October 31, 2025, in City of Seattle v.

Trump, et al., No. 2:25-cv-01435-BJR (W.D. Wa.), the following terms and conditions do not apply to awards or subawards issued to any of the plaintiffs subject to the preliminary injunction order while the order remains in effect: the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled " Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act ". If the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, the term will immediately become effective. As stated above, Paragraph (2)(a)(ii) of the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled “Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act” will not apply even if the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished.

C. Financial Reporting Requirements
Recipients must report obligations and expenditures through a federal financial report. The Federal Financial Report (FFR) form, also known as Standard Form 425 (SF-425), is available online at: SF-425 OMB #4040-0014. A tutorial is available here under https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/FEMA_GO_SF425_and_PPR_User_Guide_508.pdf Recipients must submit the FFR semi-annually throughout the Period of Performance (POP) as detailed below:

A. No later than July 30 (for the period Jan. 1 – June 30) B. No later than January 30 (for the period July 1 – Dec. 31) C. Within 120 days after the end of the Period of Performance The final FFR is due within 120 days after the end of the POP.

FEMA may withhold future federal awards and cash payments if the recipient does not submit timely financial reports, or the financial reports submitted demonstrate lack of progress or provide insufficient detail.

D. Programmatic Performance Reporting Requirements

1. A Performance Report must be submitted semi-annually throughout the POP. A tutorial is available
here: https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/FEMA_GO_SF425_and_PPR_User_Guide_508.pdf

2. A Performance Report must include:
a. A brief narrative of overall project(s) status indicating progress toward project objectives;
1060
28 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
b. A summary of project expenditures;
c. A summary of any products from research activities;
d. A description of any potential issues that may affect project completion; and e. Other information specific to the Activities awarded.

3. The Performance Report must be submitted through FEMA GO.

4. Performance Report Due Dates
a. No later than July 30 (for the period Jan. 1 – June 30)

5. No later than January 30 (for the period July 1 – Dec. 31)] E. Closeout Reporting Requirements
Within 120 days after the end of the period of performance, or after an amendment has been issued to close out a federal award, recipients must submit the following:
• The final request for payment, if applicable.
• The final FFR.
• The final progress report detailing all accomplishments. • A qualitative narrative summary of the impact of those accomplishments throughout the period of performance.
• Other documents required by this NOFO, terms and conditions of the federal award, or other DHS Component guidance.

After FEMA approves these reports, it will issue a closeout notice. The notice will indicate the period of performance as closed, list any remaining funds to be de-obligated, and address the record maintenance requirement. Unless a longer period applies, such as due to an audit or litigation, for equipment or real property used beyond the period of performance, or due to other circumstances outlined in 2 C.F.R. § 200.334, this maintenance requirement is three years from the date of the final FFR.

Also, pass-through entities are responsible for closing out those subawards as described in 2 C.F.R. § 200.344; subrecipients are still required to submit closeout materials within 90 calendar days of the subaward period of performance end date. When a subrecipient completes all closeout requirements, pass-through entities must promptly complete all closeout actions in time for the recipient to submit all necessary documentation and information to FEMA during the closeout of their prime award. The recipient is responsible for returning any balances of unobligated or unliquidated funds that have been drawn down that are not authorized to be retained per 2 C.F.R. § 200.344(e).

A closeout tutorial is available here
https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_afg-closout-tutorial.pdf Administrative Closeout
Administrative closeout is a mechanism for FEMA to unilaterally execute closeout of an award if no activity is taken during the period of performance (submitting of reports, financial drawdowns). FEMA will use available award information in lieu of final recipient reports, per 2 1061
29 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
C.F.R. § 200.344(h)-(i). It is an activity of last resort, and if FEMA administratively closes an award, this may negatively impact a recipient’s ability to obtain future funding.

Additional Reporting Requirements
Anytime there is a chance in personnel for any of the awardees and/or subrecipients, their information needs to be submitted for approval (all the previous personal information identified).

F. Disclosing Information per 2 C.F.R. § 180.335
Before entering into a federal award, the applicant must notify FEMA if it knows that the applicant or any of the principals (as defined at 2 C.F.R. § 180.995) for the federal award:

1. Are presently excluded or disqualified;

2. Have been convicted within the preceding three years of any of the offenses listed in § 180.800(a) or had a civil judgment rendered against you for one of those offenses within that time period;

3. Are presently indicted for or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a governmental entity (Federal, State, or local) with the commission of any of the offenses listed in § 180.800(a); or

4. Have had one or more public transactions (Federal, State, or local) terminated within the preceding three years for cause or default.

This is requirement is fully described in 2 C.F.R. §180.335.

Additionally, 2 C.F.R. § 180.350 requires recipients to provide immediate notice to FEMA at any time after entering a federal award if:

1. The recipient learns that either it failed to earlier disclose information as required by 2 C.F.R. § 180.335;

2. Due to changed circumstances, the applicant or any of the principals for the federal award now meet the criteria at 2 C.F.R. § 180.335 listed above.

G. Reporting of Matters Related to Recipient Integrity and Performance Appendix XII to 2 C.F.R. Part 200 states the terms and conditions for recipient integrity and performance matters used for this funding opportunity.

If the total value of all active federal grants, cooperative agreements, and procurement contracts for a recipient exceeds $10,000,000 at any time during the period of performance:

1. The recipient must maintain the currency of information reported in SAM.gov about civil, criminal, or administrative proceedings described in paragraph 2 of Appendix XII;

2. The required reporting frequency is described in paragraph 4 of Appendix XII.

H. Single Audit Report
Any non-Federal entity that must be audited (as defined by 2 C.F.R. § 200.1) during its fiscal year must undergo an audit. This may be either a single audit complying with 2 C.F.R. § 200.514 or a program-specific audit complying with 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.501 and 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.507. 1062
30 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Audits must follow 2 C.F.R. Part 200, Subpart F, 2 C.F.R. § 200.501, and the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards.

I. Monitoring and Oversight
Per 2 C.F.R. § 200.337, DHS and its authorized representatives have the right of access to any records of the recipient or subrecipient pertinent to a Federal award to perform audits, site visits, and any other official use. The right also includes timely and reasonable access to the recipient’s or subrecipient’s personnel for the purpose of interview and discussion related to such documents or the Federal award in general.

Pursuant to this right and per 2 C.F.R. § 200.329, DHS may conduct desk reviews and make site visits to review and evaluate project accomplishments and management control systems as well as provide any required technical assistance. Recipients and subrecipients must respond in a timely and accurate manner to DHS requests for information relating to a federal award.

J. Program Evaluation
Title I of the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act of 2018, Pub. L. No. 115-435 (2019) (Evidence Act), PUBL435.PS urges federal agencies to use program evaluation as a critical tool to learn, improve delivery, and elevate program service and delivery across the program lifecycle. Evaluation means “an assessment using systematic data collection and analysis of one or more programs, policies, and organizations intended to assess their effectiveness and efficiency.” Evidence Act, § 101 (codified at 5 U.S.C. § 311). OMB A-11, Section 290 (Evaluation and Evidence-Building Activities) further outlines the standards and practices for evaluation activities. Federal agencies are required to specify any requirements for recipient participation in program evaluation activities (2 C.F.R. § 200.301). Program evaluation activities incorporated from the outset in the NOFO and program design and implementation allow recipients and agencies to meaningfully document and measure progress and achievement towards program goals and objectives, and identify program outcomes and lessons learned, as part of demonstrating recipient performance (2 C.F.R. § 200.301).

As such, recipients and subrecipients are required to participate in a Program Office (PO) or a DHS Component-led evaluation, if selected. This may be carried out by a third-party on behalf of the PO or the DHS Component. Such an evaluation may involve information collections including but not limited to, records of the recipients; surveys, interviews, or discussions with individuals who benefit from the federal award, program operating personnel, and award recipients; and site visits or other observation of recipient activities, as specified in a DHS Component or PO-approved evaluation plan. More details about evaluation requirements may be provided in the federal award, if available at that time, or following the award as evaluation requirements are finalized. Evaluation costs incurred during the period of performance are allowable costs (either as direct or indirect) in accordance with 2 C.F.R. § 200.413.

Recipients and subrecipients are also encouraged, but not required, to participate in any additional evaluations after the period of performance ends, although any costs incurred to participate in such evaluations are not allowable and may not be charged to the federal award.

K. Additional Performance Reporting Requirements
1063
31 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Not applicable
L. Termination of Federal Award
The FY 2026 DHS Standard Terms and Conditions sets forth a term and condition entitled “Termination of a Federal Award”. The termination provision condition listed below applies to the grant award and the “Termination of a Federal Award” term and condition in the FY 2026 DHS Standard Terms and Conditions does not.

Termination of the Federal Award by FEMA
FEMA may terminate the federal award in whole or in part for one of the following reasons:
a. If the recipient or subrecipient fails to comply with the terms and conditions of the federal award.
b. With the consent of the recipient, in which case FEMA and the recipient must agree upon the termination conditions. These conditions include the effective date and, in the case of partial termination, the portion to be terminated.
c. If the federal award no longer effectuates the program goals or agency priorities. Under this provision, FEMA may terminate the award for these purposes if any of the following reasons apply:
i. If DHS/FEMA, in its sole discretion, determines that a specific award objective is ineffective at achieving program goals as described in this NOFO; ii. If DHS/FEMA, in its sole discretion, determines that an objective of the award as described in this NOFO will be ineffective at achieving program goals or agency priorities;
iii. If DHS/FEMA, in its sole discretion, determines that the design of the grant program is flawed relative to program goals or agency priorities; iv. If DHS/FEMA, in its sole discretion, determines that the grant program is not aligned to either the DHS Strategic Plan, the FEMA Strategic Plan, or successor policies or documents;
v. If DHS/FEMA, in its sole discretion, changes or re-evaluates the goals or priorities of the grant program and determines that the award will be ineffective at achieving the updated program goals or agency priorities; or
vi. For other reasons based on program goals or agency priorities described in the termination notice provided to the recipient pursuant to 2 C.F.R. § 200.341. vii. If the awardee falls out of compliance with the Agency’s statutory or regulatory authority, award terms and conditions, or other applicable laws. d. For convenience, including, but not limited to, when the award no longer advances agency priorities or the national interest.
1064
32 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO

1. Termination of a Subaward by the Pass-Through Entity The pass-through entity may terminate a subaward in whole or in part for one of the following reasons identified in 2 C.F.R. § 200.340:
a. If the subrecipient fails to comply with the terms and conditions of the federal award. b. With the consent of the subrecipient, in which case the pass-through entity and the subrecipient must agree upon the termination conditions. These conditions include the effective date and, in the case of partial termination, the portion to be terminated. c. If the pass-through entity’s award has been terminated the pass-through recipient will terminate its subawards.

2. Termination by the Recipient or Subrecipient
The recipient or subrecipient may terminate the federal award in whole or in part for the following reason identified in 2 C.F.R. § 200.340: Upon sending FEMA or pass-through entity a written notification of the reasons for such termination, the effective date, and, in the case of partial termination, the portion to be terminated. However, if FEMA or pass-through entity determines that the remaining portion of the federal award will not accomplish the purposes for which the federal award was made, FEMA or pass-through entity may terminate the federal award in its entirety.

3. Impacts of Termination
a. When FEMA terminates the federal award prior to the end of the period of performance due to the recipient’s material failure to comply with the terms and conditions of the federal award, FEMA will report the termination in SAM.gov in the manner described at 2 C.F.R. § 200.340(c).
b. When the federal award is terminated in part or its entirety, FEMA or pass-through entity and recipient or subrecipient remain responsible for compliance with the requirements in 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.344 and § 200.345.

4. Notification Requirements
a. FEMA must provide written notice of the termination in a manner consistent with 2 C.F.R. § 200.341. The federal award will be terminated on the date of the notification unless stated otherwise in the notification.

5. Opportunities to Object and Appeal
a. Where applicable, when FEMA terminates the federal award, the written notification of termination will provide the opportunity and describe the process to object and provide information challenging the action, pursuant to 2 C.F.R. § 200.342.

6. Effects of Suspension and Termination
a. The allowability of costs to the recipient or subrecipient resulting from financial obligations incurred by the recipient or subrecipient during a suspension or after the termination of a federal award are subject to 2 C.F.R. 200.343. 1065
33 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
M. Best Practices
While not a requirement in the DHS Standard Terms and Conditions, as a best practice: Entities receiving funds through this program should ensure that cybersecurity is integrated into the design, development, operation, and maintenance of investments that impact information technology (IT) and/ or operational technology (OT) systems. Additionally, “The recipient and subrecipient must take reasonable cybersecurity and other measures to safeguard information including protected personally identifiable information (PII) and other types of information.” 2 C.F.R. § 200.303(e).

N. Payment Information
Recipients will submit payment requests in FEMA GO for FY 2025 awards under this program.

Instructions to Grant Recipients Pursuing Payments
FEMA reviews all grant payments and obligations to ensure allowability in accordance with 2 C.F.R.  § 200.305.  These measures ensure funds are disbursed appropriately while continuing to support and prioritize communities who rely on FEMA for assistance. Once a recipient submits a payment request, FEMA will review the request. If FEMA approves a payment, recipients will be notified by FEMA GO and the payment will be delivered pursuant to the recipients SAM.gov financial information. If FEMA disapproves a payment, FEMA will inform the recipient.

Processing and Payment Timeline
FEMA must comply with regulations governing payments to grant recipients. See 2 C.F.R. § 200.305. For grant recipients other than States, 2 C.F.R. § 200.305(b)(3) stipulates that FEMA is to make payments on a reimbursement basis within 30 days after receipt of the payment request, unless FEMA reasonably believes the request to be improper. For state recipients, 2 C.F.R. § 200.305(a) instructs that federal grant payments are governed by Treasury-State Cash Management Improvement Act (CMIA) agreements ("Treasury-State agreement") and default procedures codified at 31 C.F.R. part 205 and Treasury Financial Manual (TFM) 4A-2000, "Overall Disbursing Rules for All Federal Agencies." See 2 C.F.R. § 200.305(a).

Treasury-State agreements generally apply to "major federal assistance programs” that are governed by 31 C.F.R. part 205, subpart A and are identified in the Treasury-State agreement. 31 C.F.R. §§ 205.2, 205.6. Where a federal assistance (grant) program is not governed by subpart A, payment and funds transfers from FEMA to the state are subject to 31 C.F.R. part 205, subpart B.

Subpart B requires FEMA to "limit a funds transfer to a state to the minimum amounts needed by the state and must time the disbursement to be in accord with the actual, immediate cash requirements of the state in carrying out a federal assistance program or project. The timing and amount of funds transfers must be as close as is administratively feasible to a state's actual cash outlay for direct program costs and the proportionate share of any allowable indirect costs." 31 C.F.R. § 205.33(a). Nearly all FEMA grants are not “major federal assistance programs.” As a result, payments to states for those grants are subject to the "default” rules of 31 C.F.R. part 205, subpart B.
1066
34 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
If additional information is needed, a request for information will be issued by FEMA to the recipient; recipients are strongly encouraged to respond to any additional FEMA request for information inquiries within three business days. If an adequate response is not received, the request may be denied, and the entity may need to submit a new reimbursement request; this will re-start the 30-day timeline.

Submission Process
All non-disaster grant program reimbursement requests must be reviewed and approved by FEMA prior to drawdowns.

For all non-disaster reimbursement requests (regardless of system), please ensure submittal of the following information:

1. Grant ID / Award Number

2. Total amount requested for drawdown

3. Purpose of drawdown and timeframe covered (must be within the award performance period)

4. Subrecipient Funding Details (if applicable).

5. Is funding provided directly or indirectly to a subrecipient? a. If no, include statement “This grant funding is not being directed to a subrecipient.”

6. If yes, provide the following details:
a. The name, mission statement, and purpose of each subrecipient receiving funds, along with the amount allocated and the specific role or activity being reimbursed. b. Whether the subrecipient’s work or mission involves supporting aliens, regardless of whether FEMA funds support such activities.
c. Whether the payment request includes an activity involving support to aliens. d. Whether the subrecipient has any diversity, equity, and inclusion practices.3 3 Pursuant to the preliminary injunction order issued on November 21, 2025, in County of Santa Clara et al. v.

Noem, et al., No. 25-cv-08330-WHO (N.D. Cal.),  the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled "Federal AntiDiscrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act" does not apply to awards or subawards issued to any of the plaintiffs subject to the preliminary injunction order while the order remains in effect. If the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, the term will immediately become effective.

Pursuant to the preliminary injunction order issued on November 21, 2025, in City of Chicago et al. v. Noem, et al., No. 25-CV-12765 (N.D. Ill.), the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled "Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act" does not apply to awards or subawards issued to any of the plaintiffs subject to the preliminary injunction order while the order remains in effect.

If the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, the term will immediately become effective.

Pursuant to the preliminary injunction order issued on October 31, 2025, in City of Seattle v. Trump, et al., No. 2:25-cv-01435-BJR (W.D. Wa.), the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled "Anti-Discrimination" does not apply 1067
35 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO

7. Supporting documentation to demonstrate that expenses are allowable, allocable, reasonable, and necessary under 2 CFR part 200 and in compliance with the grant’s NOFO, award terms, and applicable federal regulations.

All non-disaster grant program reimbursement requests must be reviewed and approved by FEMA prior to drawdowns.

O. Immigration Conditions
The term titled “Communication and Cooperation with the Department of Homeland Security and Immigration Officials” and paragraph (2)(a)(ii) of the term titled “Federal AntiDiscrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act” in the FY 2026 DHS Standard Terms and Conditions do not apply to any federal award under this funding opportunity.

10. Other Information
A. Period of Performance Extension
Extensions to the Period of Performance (POP) for this program are allowed.

Extensions to the POP identified in the award will only be considered through formal, written requests via FEMA GO and must contain specific and compelling justifications as to why an extension is required. Recipients are advised to coordinate with the FEMA Fire Program Specialist or Program Analyst as needed when preparing an extension request. Recipients should request extensions only under exceptional circumstances. Approval is not guaranteed. AFG grants with a two-year POP are not expected to need an extension, except for vehicle/apparatus awards.

Extension requests will be granted only due to compelling legal, policy, or operational challenges. Extension requests will only be considered for the following reasons:

1. Contractual commitments by the recipient or subrecipient with vendors prevent completion of the project, including delivery of equipment or services, within the existing POP;
to awards or subawards issued to any of the plaintiffs subject to the preliminary injunction order while the order remains in effect. If the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, the term will immediately become effective.

As stated above, Paragraph(2)(a)(ii) of the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled "Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act" will not apply even if any of these preliminary injunctions are stayed, vacated, or extinguished. 1068
36 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO

2. The project must undergo a complex environmental review that cannot be completed within the existing POP;

3. Projects are long-term by design, and therefore acceleration would compromise core programmatic goals; or

4. Where other special or extenuating circumstances exist.

Recipients must submit all proposed extension requests to FEMA for review and approval at least 120 days prior to the end of the POP to allow sufficient processing time. The review process can take up to 30 calendar days or longer. Recipients should factor this review period into the timing of when to submit a request for an extension. Extensions are typically granted for no more than six-months.

All extension requests must address the following:

1. The grant program, fiscal year, and award number;

2. Reason for the delay –including details of the legal, policy, or operational challenges that prevent the final outlay of awarded funds by the deadline;

3. Current status of the activity or activities;

4. Approved POP termination date and new project completion date;

5. Amount of funds drawn down to date;

6. Remaining available funds, both federal and, if applicable, non-federal;

7. Budget outlining how remaining federal and, if applicable, non-federal funds will be expended;

8. Plan for completion, including milestones and timeframes for achieving each milestone and the position or person responsible for implementing the plan for completion; and

9. Certification that the activity or activities will be completed within the extended POP without any modification to the original statement of work, as described in the original statement of work and as approved by FEMA.

B. Other Information
a. Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation (EHP) Compliance FEMA is required to consider effects of its actions on the environment and historic properties to ensure that activities, grants and programs funded by FEMA, comply with federal EHP laws, Executive Orders, regulations, and policies.

Recipients and subrecipients proposing projects with the potential to impact the environment or cultural resources, such as the modification or renovation of existing buildings, structures, and facilities, and/or new construction and/or replacement of buildings, structures, and facilities, must participate in the FEMA EHP review process. This includes conducting early engagement to help identify EHP resources, such as threatened or endangered species, historic properties, or communities with environmental justice concerns; submitting a detailed project description with supporting documentation to determine whether the proposed project has the potential to impact EHP resources; and, identifying mitigation measures and/or alternative courses of action that may lessen impacts to those resources.

FEMA is sometimes required to consult with other regulatory agencies and the public in order to complete the review process. Federal law requires EHP review to be completed before federal 1069
37 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
funds are released to carry out proposed projects. FEMA may not be able to fund projects that are not in compliance with applicable EHP laws, Executive Orders, regulations, and policies.

FEMA may recommend mitigation measures and/or alternative courses of action to lessen impacts to EHP resources and bring the project into EHP compliance.

EHP guidance is found at Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation. The site contains links to documents identifying agency EHP responsibilities and program requirements, such as implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act and other EHP laws, regulations, and Executive Orders. DHS and FEMA EHP policy is also found in the EHP Directive & Instruction.

All FEMA actions, including grants, must comply with National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) criteria or any more restrictive federal, state, or local floodplain management standards (44 C.F.R. § 9.11(d)(6)). For actions located within, or that may affect, a floodplain or wetland, the following alternatives must be considered: a) no action; b) alternative locations; and c) alternative actions, including alternative actions that use natural features or nature-based solutions. Where possible, natural features and nature-based solutions shall be used. If not practicable as an alternative on their own, natural features and nature-based solutions may be incorporated into actions as minimization measures.

The GPD EHP screening form is located at
https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_ehp-screening_form_ff-207-fy-21- 100_5-26-2021.pdf.

Additionally, all recipients under this funding opportunity are required to comply with the FEMA GPD EHP Policy Guidance, FEMA Policy #108-1.
https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_gpd-dhp-policy-guidance.pdf b. Procurement Integrity
When purchasing under a FEMA award, recipients and subrecipients must comply with the federal procurement standards in 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.317 – 200.327. To assist with determining whether an action is a procurement or instead a subaward, please consult 2 C.F.R. § 200.331.

For detailed guidance on the federal procurement standards, recipients and subrecipients should refer to various materials issued by FEMA’s Procurement Disaster Assistance Team (PDAT), such as the Procurement Under Grants (PUG) Manual and Contract Provisions Guide. Additional resources, including a schedule of upcoming trainings can be found on the PDAT Website:
https://www.fema.gov/grants/procurement.

Under 2 C.F.R. § 200.317, when procuring property and services under a federal award, states (including territories) and tribal governments must follow the same policies and procedures they use for procurements from their non-federal funds; additionally, states and tribal governments must now follow 2 C.F.R. § 200.321 regarding socioeconomic steps, 200.322 regarding domestic preferences for Procurements and 2 C.F.R. § 200.327 regarding required contract provisions.

States, but not tribal governments, must also follow 200.323 regarding procurement of recovered materials.

Local government and nonprofit recipients or subrecipients must have and use their own documented procurement procedures that reflect applicable State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial 1070
38 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
(SLTT) laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal law and the standards identified in 2 C.F.R. Part 200.

1. Important Changes to Procurement Standards in 2 C.F.R. Part 200 On April 22, 2024, OMB revised parts of Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations, including procurement standards. These updates apply to all FEMA awards with a federal award date or disaster declaration date on or after October 1, 2024, unless stated otherwise. The revisions include changes to federal procurement standards, which outline how FEMA award recipients and subrecipients must make purchases under a FEMA award.

More information on OMB’s revisions to the federal procurement standards can be found in Purchasing Under a FEMA Award.

2. Competition and Conflicts of Interest
Under 2 C.F.R. § 200.319(b), local government and nonprofit recipients or subrecipients must exclude contractors who develop or draft specifications, requirements, statements of work, or invitations for bids from competing for those procurements. FEMA considers these activities an organizational conflict of interest and extends this restriction to contractors who assist in preparing grant applications, project plans, or project budgets. Additionally, former employees are prohibited from managing the grant or executing a contract if they were involved in these activities while employed by the recipient or subrecipient.

Under this prohibition, federal funds cannot be used to pay a contractor to execute work if that contractor was also involved in developing the specifications, unless the recipient or subrecipient procured a contract for both development and execution in compliance with 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.317–200.327. This rule applies to all contracts funded with federal grant funds, including pre-award costs, such as grant writer fees, and post-award costs, such as grant management fees.

In addition to organizational conflicts of interest, situations considered to be restrictive of competition include, but are not limited to:
• Placing unreasonable requirements on firms for them to qualify to do business; • Requiring unnecessary experience and excessive bonding; • Noncompetitive pricing practices between firms or between affiliated companies; • Noncompetitive contracts to consultants that are on retainer contracts; • Specifying only a “brand name” product instead of allowing “an equal” product to be offered and describing the performance or other relevant requirements of the procurement; and
• Any arbitrary action in the procurement process.

Under 2 C.F.R. § 200.318(c)(1), local government and nonprofit recipients or subrecipients are required to maintain written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of their employees engaged in the selection, award, and administration of contracts. No employee, officer, agent, or board member with a real or apparent conflict of interest may participate in the selection, award, or administration of a contract supported by the Federal 1071
39 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
award. A conflict of interest includes when the employee, officer, agent, or board member, any member of their immediate family, their partner, or an organization that employs or is about to employ any of the parties indicated herein, has a financial or other interest in or a tangible personal benefit from an entity considered for a contract. An employee, officer, agent, and board member of the recipient or subrecipient may neither solicit nor accept gratuities, favors, or anything of monetary value from contractors. However, the recipient or subrecipient may set standards for situations where the financial interest is not substantial or a gift is an unsolicited item of nominal value. The recipient's or subrecipient's standards of conduct must also provide for disciplinary actions to be applied for violations by its employees, officers, agents, or board members.

Under 2 C.F.R. 200.318(c)(2), if the local government and nonprofit recipient or subrecipient has a parent, affiliate, or subsidiary organization that is not a SLTT government, the recipient or subrecipient must also maintain written standards of conduct covering organizational conflicts of interest. Organizational conflict of interest means that because of a relationship with a parent company, affiliate, or subsidiary organization, the recipient or subrecipient is unable or appears to be unable to be impartial in conducting a procurement action involving a related organization.

The recipient or subrecipient must disclose in writing any potential conflicts of interest to FEMA or the pass-through entity in accordance with applicable FEMA policy.

3. Supply Schedules and Purchasing Programs
Generally, a recipient or subrecipient may seek to procure goods or services from a federal supply schedule, state supply schedule, or group purchasing agreement.

Information about General Services Administration (GSA) programs for state, local, and tribal governments, and their instrumentalities, can be found at Programs for state and local governments and authorized organizations and help for state, local, and tribal governments to make MAS buys | GSA.

4. Procurement Documentation
Per 2 C.F.R. § 200.318(i), local government and nonprofit recipients or subrecipients are required to maintain and retain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement covering at least the rationale for the procurement method, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. States and tribal governments are reminded that in order for any cost to be allowable, it must be adequately documented per 2 C.F.R. § 200.403(g).

Examples of the types of documents that would cover this information include, but are not limited to:
• Solicitation documentation, such as requests for quotes, invitations for bids, or requests for proposals;
• Responses to solicitations, such as quotes, bids, or proposals; • Pre-solicitation independent cost estimates and post-solicitation cost/price analyses on file for review by federal personnel, if applicable;
1072
40 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Contract documents and amendments, including required contract provisions; and • Other documents required by federal regulations applicable at the time a grant is awarded to a recipient.
c. Financial Assistance Programs for Infrastructure

1. Build America, Buy America Act
Recipients and subrecipients must comply with FEMA’s implementation requirements of the Build America, Buy America Act (BABAA), which was enacted as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act §§ 70901-70927, Pub. L. No. 117-58 (2021); and Executive Order 14005, Ensuring the Future is Made in All of America by All of America’s Workers. See also 2 C.F.R. Part 184, Buy America Preferences for Infrastructure Projects and Office of Management and Budget (OMB), Memorandum M-24-02, Implementation Guidance on Application of Buy America Preference in Federal Financial Assistance Programs for Infrastructure.

None of the funds provided under this program may be used for a project for infrastructure unless the iron and steel, manufactured products, and construction materials used in that infrastructure are produced in the United States.

The Buy America preference only applies to articles, materials, and supplies that are consumed in, incorporated into, or affixed to an infrastructure project. As such, it does not apply to tools, equipment, and supplies, such as temporary scaffolding, brought to the construction site and removed at or before the completion of the infrastructure project. Nor does a Buy America preference apply to equipment and furnishings, such as movable chairs, desks, and portable computer equipment, that are used at or within the finished infrastructure project but are not an integral part of the structure or permanently affixed to the infrastructure project.

To see whether a particular FEMA federal financial assistance program is considered an infrastructure program and thus required to implement FEMA’s Build America, Buy America requirements, please see Programs and Definitions: Build America, Buy America Act | FEMA.gov.

2. Waivers
When necessary, recipients (and subrecipients through their pass-through entity) may apply for, and FEMA may grant, a waiver from these requirements.

A waiver of the domestic content procurement preference may be granted by the agency awarding official if FEMA determines that:
• Applying the domestic content procurement preference would be inconsistent with the public interest, or
• The types of iron, steel, manufactured products, or construction materials are not produced in the United States in sufficient and reasonably available quantities or of a satisfactory quality, or
1073
41 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• The inclusion of iron, steel, manufactured products, or construction materials produced in the United States will increase the cost of the overall project by more than 25%.

The process for requesting a waiver from the Buy America preference requirements can be found on FEMA’s website at: "Buy America" Preference in FEMA Financial Assistance Programs for Infrastructure | FEMA.gov.

3. Definitions
For definitions of the key terms of the Build America, Buy America Act, please visit Programs and Definitions: Build America, Buy America Act | FEMA.gov. d. Mandatory Disclosures
The non-Federal entity or applicant for a federal award must disclose, in a timely manner, in writing to the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity all violations of federal criminal law involving fraud, bribery, or gratuity violations potentially affecting the Federal award, 2 C.F.R. § 200.113.
e. Adaptive Support
Pursuant to Section 504, of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 , recipients of FEMA financial assistance must ensure that their programs and activities do not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities.
f. Record Retention

1. Record Retention Period
Financial records, supporting documents, statistical records, and all other non-Federal entity records pertinent to a Federal award generally must be maintained for at least three years from the date the final FFR is submitted. See 2 C.F.R. §200.334. Further, if the recipient does not submit a final FFR and the award is administratively closed, FEMA uses the date of administrative closeout as the start of the general record retention period.

The record retention period may be longer than three years or have a different start date in certain cases.

2. Types of Records to Retain
FEMA requires that recipients and subrecipients maintain the following documentation for federally funded purchases:
• Specifications
• Solicitations
• Competitive quotes or proposals
• Basis for selection decisions
• Purchase orders
• Contracts
1074
42 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Invoices
• Cancelled checks
h. Actions to Address Noncompliance
Non-federal entities receiving financial assistance funding from FEMA are required to comply with requirements in the terms and conditions of their awards or subawards, including the terms set forth in applicable federal statutes, regulations, NOFOs, and policies. Throughout the award lifecycle or even after an award has been closed, FEMA or the pass-through entity may discover potential or actual noncompliance on the part of a recipient or subrecipient.

In the case of any potential or actual noncompliance, FEMA may place specific conditions on an award per 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.208 and 200.339. FEMA may place a hold on funds until the matter is corrected, or additional information is provided per 2 C.F.R. § 200.339, or it may do both.

Similar remedies for noncompliance with certain federal civil rights laws are authorized pursuant to 44 C.F.R. Parts 7 and 19 or other applicable regulations.

If the noncompliance is not able to be corrected by imposing additional conditions or the recipient or subrecipient refuses to correct the matter, FEMA may take other remedies allowed under 2 C.F.R. § 200.339.
i. Audits
FEMA grant recipients are subject to audit oversight from multiple entities including the DHS OIG, the GAO, the pass-through entity, or independent auditing firms for single audits, and may cover activities and costs incurred under the award. Auditing agencies such as the DHS OIG, the GAO, and the pass-through entity (if applicable), and FEMA in its oversight capacity, must have access to records pertaining to the FEMA award.

11. Appendices
A. Appendix A – Changes
Appendix A contains a brief list of changes between FY 2024 and FY 2025 to the AFG Program.

Changes to the FY 2025 AFG NOFO include:

1. Under Wellness and Fitness Activity: Priority 1 programs are now designated as High Priority, while Priority 2 programs are designated as Medium Priority.

2. Under Wellness and Fitness Activities: ineligible participants have been updated to anyone other than fire personnel, fire inspector, or EMS personnel.

3. Excess Funds restrictions have been updated.

4. Period of performance extensions and amendment requirements have been updated.

5. Props (single-use or permanent) essential for training programs requested in the application cannot exceed $100,000 for Operations and Safety.

B. Appendix B – Programmatic Information and Priorities 1075
43 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Appendix B contains details on AFG Program information and priorities. Reviewing this information may help applicants make their application(s) more competitive.

1. Applicants sharing facilities:

Fire departments and nonaffiliated EMS organizations are recognized as distinct entities for AFG eligibility if they have distinct funding streams, personnel rosters, and EINs, even if they share the same facilities. Such entities sharing facilities may submit separate applications. However, applications to fund the same activity may require a review by FEMA to prevent the duplication of benefits.

2. Ineligible Applications and/or Organizations:

Examples of ineligible applications and/or organizations include:
• Nonaffiliated EMS organization requests for any activity that is specific or unique to structural/proximity/wildfire firefighting gear.
• Fire departments that are a federal government entity, or contracted by the federal government, and are solely responsible under a formally recognized agreement for suppression of fires on federal installations or land.
• Fire departments or nonaffiliated EMS organizations that are not independent entities but are part of, controlled by, or under the day-to-day operational command and control of a larger department, agency or AHJ.
• However, if a fire department is considered to be the same legal entity as a municipality or other governmental organization, and otherwise meets the eligibility criteria, that municipality or other governmental organization may apply on behalf of that fire department as long as the application clearly states that the fire department is considered part of the same legal entity.
• Fire-based EMS organization applying as a nonaffiliated EMS organization. • Auxiliaries, hospitals, or fire service associations or interest organizations that are not the AHJ over the applicant.
• Dive teams, search and rescue squads, or similar organizations that do not provide medical transport.
• Fire departments, regional, or nonaffiliated EMS organizations that are for profit. • State or local agencies, or subsets of any governmental entity, or any authority that do not meet the requirements as defined by 15 U.S.C. §2229 (a), (c). • Submitting multiple applications for the same equipment or activity (e.g., SCBA under both Regional and Operations and Safety activities, or two applications for the same vehicle) may result in disqualification of both applications. This rule does not apply if an applicant is applying on behalf of multiple agencies (e.g., fire departments within the same county or city). In such cases, the applicant can request similar equipment, as long as the application clearly specifies the equipment and quantities for each agency.

Multiple applications across regional and direct categories are allowed in this scenario. 1076
44 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Eligible Fire Department and nonaffiliated EMS applicants may submit only one application for each of the following application types: Individual Operations and Safety, Individual Vehicle, Regional Operations and Safety, and Regional Vehicle.
• For Operations and Safety applications, applicants may request multiple activities and multiple items within each activity.
• For Vehicle applications, applicants may submit one application for a vehicle activity (or activities) for their department and a separate application for a Regional vehicle.

However, the same vehicle(s) cannot be requested in both applications.

All duplicate application submissions may be disqualified.

Supporting Definitions for this NOFO:

Authority having Jurisdiction (AHJ) is an organization, office, or individual responsible for enforcing the requirements of a code or standard, or for approving equipment, materials, and installation, or a procedure (Per NFPA 101, 2021 Edition: Life Safety Code).

Automatic Aid is a plan developed between two or more fire departments for immediate joint response on first alarms (Per NFPA 1710, 2020 Edition and NFPA 1720, 2020 Edition).

Career Fire Department, as defined in 15 U.S.C. § 2229, means a fire department that has an all-paid force of firefighting personnel other than paid-on-call firefighters.

Combination Fire Department, as defined in 15 U.S.C. § 2229, means a fire department that has paid firefighting personnel and volunteer firefighting personnel. FEMA considers a fire department with firefighting personnel paid a stipend, regardless of the amount, on a per event basis, or paid on-call, to be a combination fire department. This includes non-fire emergency medical service personnel of the department.

Firefighting Personnel, as defined in 15 U.S.C. § 2229, means individuals, including volunteers, who are firefighters, officers of fire departments, or emergency medical service personnel of fire departments.

Mutual Aid is a written intergovernmental agreement between agencies and/or jurisdictions stating that they will assist one another on request by furnishing personnel, equipment, and/or expertise in a specified manner (NFPA 1710 Standard for the Organization and Deployment of Fire Suppression Operations, Emergency Medical Operations, and Special Operations to the Public by Career Fire Departments, 2016 and 2020 edition; and NFPA 1720 Standard for the Organization and Deployment of Fire Suppression Operations, Emergency Medical Operations, and Special Operations to the Public by Volunteer Fire Departments, 2020 Edition).

Metro Department is a metropolitan fire department that has a minimum staffing of 350 career firefighters as defined by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC). DHS/FEMA collects information on metro departments for statistical purposes only. Status as a metro department is not a factor in scoring or funding.
1077
45 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Non-federal airport and/or port authority fire or EMS organizations: are eligible only if they have a formally recognized arrangement with the local jurisdiction to provide fire suppression or emergency medical services on a first-due basis outside the confines of the airport or port facilities. Airport or port authority fire and EMS organizations whose sole responsibility is suppression of fires or EMS response on the airport grounds or port facilities are not eligible for funding under the AFG Program.

Primary First Due is a geographic area surrounding a fire station in which a company from that station is projected to be first to arrive on the scene of an incident.

State Fire Training Academies: A SFTA must be designated either by legislation or by a governor’s declaration as the sole fire service training agency within a state, territory, or the District of Columbia and recognized by the National Fire Academy. The designated SFTA shall be the only agency, bureau, division or entity within that state, territory, or the District of Columbia, to be an eligible SFTA applicant under the AFG Program.

Volunteer Fire Department, as defined in 15 U.S.C. § 2229, means a fire department that has an all-volunteer force of firefighting personnel that do not receive any compensation (does not include length of service award programs).

Community Classifications:

The information provided by the applicant organization in the Applicant Characteristics and Community Description sections of the AFG Program application determines whether FEMA classifies the jurisdiction as urban, suburban, or rural. This community classification influences the funding priority for the application.

The US Census Bureau’s urban/suburban/rural classifications are fundamentally a delineation of geographical areas. For more information, please visit the Census website at Urban and Rural.

FY 2025 demographics for determining urban, suburban, or rural include:

Community Urban Suburban Rural
Population of
primary first due
response area
>3,000 sq. mi. or
50,000+ Population
1,000-2,999/sq. mi.
or
25,000-50,000
Population
0-999/sq. mi. or
<25,000 Population
Water Supply (% of
primary first due
response area
covered by hydrant
service)
75-100% hydrants
(municipal water) 50-74% hydrants  <50% hydrants
1078
46 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Land Use within
primary first due
response area
<25% for agriculture
(based on zoning)
>50% industrial and
commercial
combined
25%-49% used for
agriculture (based on
zoning)
25%-49% industrial
and commercial
combined
>50% used for
agriculture (based on
zoning)
<25% industrial and
commercial combined
Square miles within
primary first due
response area per
station
<3 sq. mi. per station 3-9 sq. mi. per
station >10 sq. mi. per station
Applicants should review the funding priorities in Appendix B of this NOFO, categorized as "High," "Medium," or "Low." FEMA prioritizes funding for "High" priority items first.

Requesting "Medium" or "Low" priority items may lower the overall application score. For Operations and Safety – Equipment, only "High" priority items will be considered for funding.

Restrictions on Uses of Award Funds:

AFG Program funds cannot be used for hiring (part-time or full-time), salaries, benefits, or fringe benefits (e.g., contributions for social security, insurance, workers’ compensation, or retirement plans) for any personnel. However, the following personnel-related expenses are allowable:
• Backfill and Overtime/Lost Wages: Documented costs for backfill and/or overtime to support awarded training activities are eligible.
• Instructor Rates: Applicants must include instructor base rates in the application narrative, along with market-researched competitive rates for delivering the requested training.
• Internal Instruction: If training is provided by an existing member of the recipient organization, only the established base rate of compensation (excluding benefits or overtime) is eligible for reimbursement.

Recipients are encouraged to share the benefits of awarded activities with other organizations, such as filling SCBA cylinders, cleaning turnout gear, or offering excess training capacity. If costs associated with shared benefits (e.g., backfill, overtime, tuition) for members outside the recipient’s department are included, the applicant must apply as a regional applicant.

Activity Alignment:

Items requested under Additional Funding must align with the same Activity area as the primary request. Improper requests with misaligned items may be disqualified.

Allowable Requests:
1079
47 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) Packs: May be requested under the PPE activity if supporting an SCBA request. If not supporting an SCBA request, RIT packs must be requested under the Equipment activity.
• PPE Gear Bags: Eligible under the PPE activity only when associated with a PPE gear request.
• Air Compressor/Fill Station/Cascade Systems (Fixed or Mobile): May be requested under the PPE activity in support of a Regional SCBA request. If not supporting an SCBA request, these items must be requested under the Equipment activity. • PPE Gear Washer/Extractor/Dryer: May be requested under the PPE activity in support of a PPE gear request. If not supporting a PPE gear request, these items must be requested under the Equipment activity.

Application Requirements:
• Dropdown Selection: Items must be requested using the appropriate individual item dropdowns in the application. For example, nozzles and appliances should be requested under the "Appliance(s)/Nozzle(s)" option, not under the "hose (Attack/Supply)" dropdown.
• Bundled Requests: Bundled item requests must include detailed information on the number of units and cost per individual component. Requests without these details will not be considered for funding.

Funding Priorities: Operations and Safety – Training
Overview FEMA has determined that hands-on, instructor-led training, which adheres to a national, state, or DHS-adopted standard and leads to a national or state certification, offers the greatest training benefit. All of the following are considerations in pre-scoring and peer review determinations: High (H), Medium (M), Low (L)
Fire Department, Regional, and SFTA Training Priorities by Purpose H Training evaluated using national or state standards
H Training that brings a department into compliance with recommended NFPA or other national standards
H Instructor-led training that requires student testing to demonstrate academic competence or practical proficiency
Fire Department, Regional, and SFTA Training Priorities by Purpose H
Training that benefits the highest percentage of applicable personnel, such as the hazardous materials training within a fire department or training that will be open to other eligible organizations
M Training that does not result in certification
1080
48 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
M Training that is self-directed/validated
L Training that will address an identified risk but not associated with compliance to any standards
Fire Department and Regional Training Priorities by Course Type Training NFPA # Urban Suburban Rural
Firefighter I, II 1001 H H H
Fire/Emergency
Services Instructor 1041 H H H
Hazardous Materials
Response- Awareness,
Operations, Technician
470 H H H
Infection Control 1581 H H H
Confined Space
Response- Awareness,
Operations, Technician
2500 H H H
Wildland firefighting
(basic) 1140 H H H
Wildland firefighting
certification (red card) 1140 H H H
Wildland Fire Officer 1051 H H H
Rapid Intervention
Training 1407 H H H
Fire Officer 1021 H H H
Emergency Medical
Responder N/A H H H
Emergency Medical
Technician N/A H H H
Advanced Emergency
Medical Technician to
Paramedic

N/A H H H
Paramedic N/A H H H
1081
49 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Paramedic to
Community Paramedic N/A H H H
Firefighter Safety and
Survival 1407 H H H
Safety Officer 1026,1521 H H H
Fire Apparatus
Driver/Operator 1002 H H H
Fire Prevention 1037,1730 H H H
Fire Inspector 1031 H H H
Fire Investigator 921,1033 H H H
Fire Educator 1035 H H H
NIMS/Incident
Management System
(IMS)
1026,1561 H H H
Emergency Scene
Rehab 1584 H H H
Critical Incident
Debriefing/Crisis
Intervention
1500 H H H
Any training to a
National/State or
NFPA standards

N/A H H H
Fire Department and Regional Training Priorities by Course Type Training NFPA # Urban Suburban Rural
Compliance with
federal/state- mandated
program

N/A H H H
Technical RescueOperations, Technician1006,
2500 H H H
Vehicle Rescue 2500 H H H
Another officer 1021 H H M
1082
50 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Aircraft Rescue
Firefighting (ARFF)
440,
460,1003 H H M
Weapons of Mass
Destruction (WMD) 470 H H H
Mass Casualty N/A H H H
Fire Department and Regional Training Priorities by Course Type Training NFPA # Urban Suburban Rural
Training to address a
local risk not elevated
to a national or state

N/A M M M
Specialized Training N/A M M M
Maritime Firefighting 1005,
1405,1910 L L L
Instructor-led training
that does not lead to
certification

N/A L L L
Self-taught courses N/A L L L
Training not elevated to
a national or state
standard

N/A L L L
Funding Priorities for Fire Departments and Nonaffiliated EMS Organizations Training The AFG Program provides training grants to help fire departments and nonaffiliated EMS personnel meet educational and performance requirements. Training should align with the U.S.

National highway Traffic Safety Administration's National Standard Curriculum for Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training and the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT), which maintains a national standard and provides certification information for paramedics relocating to another state.

Higher Priority Training Activities:

FEMA assigns higher priority to the following training activities due to the time and cost associated with upgrading an organization’s response level:
• Upgrading from Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) to EMT. • Upgrading from Advanced EMT (AEMT) to Paramedic.
1083
51 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Training Community Paramedics.

Organizations seeking to train a high percentage of active EMRs will receive additional consideration when applying under the Training activity.

Eligible Training Activities for Fire Departments and Regional Applications include but are not limited to:
• Train-the-trainer courses
• Alternative fuel firefighting
• Response to natural disasters
• Minor interior alterations, requested under
Additional Funding and limited to $10,000 total
expenditure to support the awarded Training
activities (e.g., removal/construction of a nonweight bearing wall) • Overtime expenses paid to career firefighters to
attend training or to backfill positions for
colleagues who are in training
• Rental of facilities to conduct training
• Rental of Audio/Visual equipment
• Travel expenses associated with attendance at a
formal training course or conference (air/rail
transportation, mileage, lodging expenses, etc.)
• Compensation to volunteers (Fire and
nonaffiliated EMS) for wages lost to attend
training; there is no overtime or backfill for
volunteers
• Tuition, exam/course fees, and
certifications/certification expenses
• Purchase of training curricula and
training services (instructors)
• Chemical Biological Radiological
Nuclear and Explosive (CBRNE)
awareness, performance, planning, and
management
• Travel expenses associated with Type 3
Incident Management Teams (IMT)
attending position
development/mentoring assignment with
national Type 2 or Type 1 IMTs
• Supplies or expendables or one-time use
items essential for an award’s scope of
work, such as foam, breaching materials
(e.g., wood or sheetrock) for ventilation
or rescue props, or the amount of fuel
required to sustain an awarded live fire
training activity, or per NFPA 1403
Standard on Live Fire Training
Evolutions, reasonable safety
mitigations to a structure acquired for
training
• Props (single-use or permanent)
essential for training programs requested
in the application cannot exceed
$100,000 per prop for Operation and
Safety requests; this does not apply to
SFTA requests.

Ineligible Training Activities for Fire Departments and Regional Applications include but are not limited to:
1084
52 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Construction of facilities (buildings, towers,
sheds, etc.)
• Firefighting equipment or PPE, such as SCBA,
used exclusively for training
• Remodeling not directly related to grant
activities
• Any costs associated with planning and/or
participating in formal or planned special event
exercises to identify user needs, evaluate an
organization’s performance capabilities, validate
existing capabilities, or to facilitate coordination
and asset sharing
• Firefighting equipment and PPE rental, as well
as training facility personnel costs (such as
facility maintenance, cleaning, safety officer
services, etc.)
• Site preparation to accommodate or
modify any training activity, facility, or
prop that is a permanent or semipermanent improvement, including but not limited to: landscaping, cutting or
grading an access road, trenching,
paving a training area, exterior stairs or
sidewalks, or the installation of utilities
• Purchase or lease of real estate (this
does not preclude departments from
securing necessary training facilities
such as classrooms, use of towers,
training props, etc.)
• Purchase of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
(UAVs) and Drones
• Food and beverages

Eligible Training Activities for Nonaffiliated EMS include but are not limited to:
• EMR
• EMT
• AEMT
• AEMT to Paramedic
• Paramedic (applicant must clearly demonstrate
plan to accomplish paramedic training within
the period of performance)
• Community Paramedics (paramedics with
Primary Care certification)
• Travel expenses associated with attendance at a
formal training course or conference: air/rail
transportation, mileage, hotel/lodging expenses,
etc. (Note: Food and beverages are ineligible
travel expenses)
• Attendance at formal training forums or
conferences providing continuing
education credits
• Overtime expenses paid to career
nonaffiliated EMS responders to attend
training or to backfill positions for
colleagues who are in training
• Compensation to volunteers for wages
lost to attend training (there is no
overtime or backfill for volunteers)
• Supplies or expendables or one-time use
items essential to complete the training
activity of a nonaffiliated EMS award’s
scope of work; examples include
bandages, splints, expendable respiratory
supplies, etc.

Operations and Safety – Equipment Overview
AFG grants fund equipment for effective response, firefighting, rescue and emergency medical operations to enhance public safety.
1085
53 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Reminder: When requesting training for any items in this section, enter the request under “Additional Funding” in the “Request Details” section of the application. Clearly specify the type and scope of training, timeframe, and other relevant details in the item description section.

The training must be directly related to the use of the equipment (e.g., vendor training) and must not duplicate courses listed under the Training activity.

Also note:
• Accountability Systems: these should be requested under the Equipment activity. • Simulators, Tow Vehicles, and Fire/Evolution Props: All mobile or fixed fire/evolution props (e.g., burn trailers, forcible entry, or rescue/smoke mazes) are located under the Equipment activity.
• Monitors/Defibrillators: Requests should be based on the number of transport and nontransport ALS response vehicles in the fleet (e.g., medic engine, medic chase vehicle, ALS ambulance).
• P-25 Compliant Portable Radios: Requests must be based on the number of seated riding positions or active department members and must be justified in the request narratives. • P-25 Mobile Radios: Requests must be based on the number of vehicles in the fleet. • Replacement of Obsolete or Damaged Equipment: Requests must ensure the applicant meets applicable industry, local, state, and national standards. • Equipment Product Lifecycles: Equipment is categorized by age as Short (5–7 years), Intermediate (8–14 years), or Long (15–20 years). Items are compared only to others within the same lifespan category to ensure fair scoring. The product lifespan does not affect the score but ensures even comparison of similar equipment types.

All of the following are considerations in pre-scoring and peer review determinations:

Only high (H) priority equipment items listed below will be considered for funding.

Priority Age Category Fire and Fire Regional SFTA

BASIC EQUIPMENT
M H
Intermediate Air Compressor/Fill
Station/Cascade System (Fixed
or Mobile) for filling SCBA.

Fire Department applicants - M
Regional Applicants - H
Air Compressor/Fill Station/Cascade
System (Fixed or Mobile) for filling
SCBA – H
H Long Appliance(s)/Nozzle(s) Appliance(s)/Nozzle(s)
H Long Basic hand Tools
(Structural/Wildfire)
Basic hand Tools
(Structural/Wildfire)
M H Intermediate Electric/Gas Powered
Saws/Tools - M
Electric/Gas Powered Saws/Tools -
H
M H Short Fit Tester - M Fit Tester – H
Priority Age Category Fire and Fire Regional SFTA
M H Long Foam Eductors - M Foam Eductors - H
1086
54 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
H Intermediate Hose (Attack/Supply) Hose (Attack/Supply) H Short
Immediately Dangerous to Life
or Health (IDLH) Monitoring
Equipment
IDLH Monitoring Equipment
H Immediate
IDLH Protection for
Investigators (this is single-use
respiratory protection)
M H Long Ladders - M Ladders - H
M H Short Personal Accountability
Systems - M
Personal Accountability Systems -
H
H Intermediate PPE Washer/Extractor/Dryer
(Turnout)
PPE Washer/Extractor/Dryer
(Turnout)
M Intermediate Respirator Decontamination
System (SCBA)
Respirator Decontamination System
(SCBA)
M H Intermediate Props - M Props - H
H Intermediate RIT Pack/Cylinder RIT Pack/Cylinder
M Intermediate Generator – Portable Generator – Portable M H Intermediate Tech Rescue (Ropes, Harnesses,
Carabiners, Pulleys, etc.) - M
Tech Rescue (Ropes, Harnesses,
Carabiners, Pulleys, etc.) - H
M H Short Simulators (including virtual) -
M
Simulators (including virtual) - H
Repairs and upgrades (nonconstruction) to existing Simulators - H
H Short Thermal Imaging Camera (Must
be NFPA 1801 compliant)
Thermal Imaging Camera (Must be
NFPA 1801 compliant)
L M H Short
Software and Learning
Management System (LMS) to
support training for Fire
Departments - L
Software and LMS to support
training for Regional - M
Software and LMS to support
training - H
M Short Computers used in support of
training
Computers used in support of
training
H Short Vehicle Mounted Exhaust
Systems Vehicle Mounted Exhaust Systems
M Short
Mobile computing devices
intended to be used on scene
(Tablets)
Mobile computing devices intended
to be used on scene (Tablets)

COMMUNICATIONS
M H Intermediate Base Station (must be P-25
Compliant) - M
Base Station (must be P-25
Compliant) - H
M H Intermediate Headsets - M Headsets - H
1087
55 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
M H Intermediate Mobile Radios (must be P-25
Compliant) - M
Mobile Radios (must be P-25
Compliant) - H
M H Intermediate Mobile Repeaters (must be P25 Compliant) - M Mobile Repeaters (must be P-25
Compliant) - H
M H Intermediate Pagers (limited to number of
active members) - M
Pagers (limited to number of active
members) - H
H Intermediate Portable Radios (must be P-25
compliant)
Portable Radios (must be P-25
compliant)
M Intermediate Mobile Data Terminal (MDT) MDT
Priority Age
Category Fire and Fire Regional SFTA
M Short Software specifically to enable
Radio over IP (RoIP) Software specifically to enable RoIP

EMS EQUIPMENT
H Short Airway Equipment (NonDisposable) Airway Equipment (Non-Disposable) H Short CPAP Device (NonDisposable) CPAP Device (Non-Disposable) H Short Suction Unit (NonDisposable) Suction Unit (Non-Disposable) H Short
Automated External
Defibrillators (AEDs) BLS
Level
AEDs BLS Level
H Short Automatic Chest Compression
Device (CPR) Automatic CPR
H Short EMS Training Aids EMS Training Aids
H Short Monitor/Defibrillator Monitor/Defibrillator
H Intermediate Power Lift Cot Power Lift Cot
H Intermediate Power Lift System Power Lift System
H Short Pulse Oximeters Pulse Oximeters
H Short Responder Rehab Equipment Responder Rehab Equipment H Short Power Stair Chair Power Stair Chair
H Short Patient Carbon Monoxide
Monitor Patient Carbon Monoxide Monitor
H Short Capnography/Capnometer
Device Capnography/Capnometer Device
M Short O2 Kit O2 Kit
M Short Non-Disposable Splints Non-Disposable Splints
L Intermediate Stretcher Stretcher
L Intermediate Backboard Backboard
L Short Trauma Bag Trauma Bag
L Short Mass Casualty Kit Mass Casualty Kit
1088
56 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
L Short
Portable Lift System (i.e.,
devices, hydraulic or electrical,
used to assist with the lifting of
patients that are not associated
with cots or stair chairs)
Portable Lift System (i.e., devices,
hydraulic or electrical, used to assist
with the lifting of patients that are not
associated with cots or stair chairs)

EXTRICATION
M H Intermediate Cutter/Spreader - M Cutter/Spreader - H M H Intermediate Vehicle Extrication Equipment
- M Vehicle Extrication Equipment - H

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
M Intermediate Basic HazMat Response
Equipment Basic HazMat Response Equipment
M Intermediate
Decon, Clean-Up,
Containment and Packaging
Equipment
Decon, Clean-Up, Containment and
Packaging Equipment
M Short Sampling Devices (HazMat) Sampling Devices (HazMat)

SPECIALIZED
H Intermediate Skid Unit Skid Unit
M Intermediate Air Quality Device Air Quality Device
M Intermediate Boats Boats
M Short
Marine equipment (NFPA
1910: Standard on Marine FireFighting Vessels)
Marine equipment (NFPA 1910:

Standard on Marine Fire-Fighting
Vessels)
M Intermediate Mobile Generator Mobile Generator

Priority Age Category Fire and Fire Regional SFTA
M Intermediate Portable Pump Portable Pump
L Short Specialized Equipment
(Other) Specialized Equipment (Other)

CHEMICAL BIOLOGICAL RADIOLOGICAL NUCLEAR EQUIPMENT (CBRNE) L Short CBRNE-related Equipment CBRNE-related Equipment L Short Non-Disposable Biological
Detection Non-Disposable Biological Detection
Priority Age Category Tow Vehicles Applicant Type
Note: Tow vehicles may be applied for under different application types with differing priority levels. Please reference the chart below when applying for tow vehicles.

H Long Tow Vehicle SFTA
M Long Tow Vehicle Regional
L Long Tow Vehicle Fire Department
Priority Age Category Nonaffiliated EMS Nonaffiliated EMS Regional 1089
57 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO

COMMUNICATIONS
H Intermediate Base Station (must be P-25
Compliant)
Base Station (must be P-25
Compliant)
H Intermediate Mobile Radios (must be P-25
Compliant)
Mobile Radios (must be P-25
Compliant)
H Intermediate Mobile Repeaters (must be P25 Compliant) Mobile Repeaters (must be P-25
Compliant)
H Intermediate Pagers (limited to number of
active members)
Pagers (limited to number of active
members)
H Intermediate
Portable Radios (must be P-25
Compliant, limited to number
of AFG Program-approved
seated positions)
Portable Radios (must be P-25
Compliant, limited to number of AFG
Program-approved seated positions)
M Intermediate Mobile Data Terminal Mobile Data Terminal M Intermediate Headsets Headsets
M Short Software specifically to
enable RoIP Software specifically to enable RoIP

EMS EQUIPMENT
H Short ALS/BLS Equipment ALS/BLS Equipment
H Short Airway Equipment (NonDisposable)
Airway Equipment (NonDisposable)
H Short AEDs BLS Level AEDs BLS Level
H Short Automatic CPR Automatic CPR
H Short EMS Training Aids  EMS Training Aids
H Short CPAP Device (NonDisposable) CPAP Device (Non-Disposable) H Short Monitor/Defibrillator - 15
leads Monitor/Defibrillator - 15 leads
H Intermediate Power Lift Cot Power Lift Cot
H Intermediate Power Lift System Power Lift System
H Short Responder Rehab Equipment Responder Rehab Equipment H Short Suction unit Suction unit
H Intermediate Power Stair Chair Power Stair Chair

Priority Age Category Nonaffiliated EMS Nonaffiliated EMS Regional H Short Patient Carbon Monoxide
Monitor
Patient Carbon Monoxide
Monitor
H Short Capnography/Capnometer Device Capnography/Capnometer Device
M Short O2 Kit O2 Kit
M Short Non-Disposable Splints Non-Disposable Splints
1090
58 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
L Intermediate Stretchers Stretchers
L Intermediate Backboards Backboards
L Short Trauma Bag Trauma Bag
L Short Mass Casualty Kit Mass Casualty Kit
M Short Computers used in support of
training
Computers used in support of
training
M Short
Mobile computing devices
intended to be used on scene
(tablets)
Mobile computing devices
intended to be used on scene
(tablets)
H Short Vehicle Mounted Exhaust
Systems
Vehicle Mounted Exhaust
Systems
L Short
Portable Lift System (i.e., devices,
hydraulic or electrical, used to
assist with the lifting of patients
that are not associated with cots)
Portable Lift System (i.e., devices,
hydraulic or electrical, used to
assist with the lifting of patients
that are not associated with cots)
HazMat
M Intermediate Basic HazMat Response
Equipment
Basic HazMat Response
Equipment
M Intermediate Decon, Clean-Up, Containment
and Packaging Equipment
Decon, Clean-Up, Containment
and Packaging Equipment
M Short Sampling Devices (HazMat) Sampling Devices (HazMat)

Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS, Regional, and SFTA Equipment Priorities Priority Purpose of Request Definition
H
Obtain equipment needed but not
currently owned or replace
equipment that is broken and/or
damaged beyond repair to achieve
minimum operational and
deployment standards for existing
missions
Applies to requests for equipment needed, and not
currently owned, to achieve minimum operational
and deployment standards for a department’s
existing mission requirements. This includes
equipment that is no longer usable because it is
broken and/or damaged beyond repair.

H Replace noncompliant equipment
to current standard
Applies to equipment that is deemed obsolete
and/or is out of compliance with current standards
for that type of equipment. Equipment requested
under this reason for purchase has not been
deemed inoperable, and while it may not be
compliant with current standards it is not broken,
damaged, or otherwise unusable.
1091
59 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
M Obtain equipment for new
mission
Applies to requests for equipment, supplies, or
inventories that are intended to fulfill minimum
service requirements associated with new missions
that a department is taking on and building the
capability for but has not been previously fulfilled.

For example, this may include, but is not limited
to, establishing a new HazMat capability or Swift
Water Rescue capability.

Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS, Regional, and SFTA Equipment Priorities Priority Purpose of Request Definition
L Upgrade technology to current
standard
Applies to requests for equipment that may or may
not be owned, but newer technology is available.

Eligible Equipment Activities for Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS, Regional, and SFTA include but are not limited to:
• Shipping, taxes, assembly, and
installation of the requested equipment
• Extended warranties and service
agreements if acquired concurrent with
initial acquisition
• Minor interior alterations (requested
under Additional Funding and limited to
$10,000 total expenditure) to support the
awarded Equipment activities (e.g.,
removal/ construction of a non-weight
bearing wall)
• Equipment for response to incidents
involving CBRNE/WMD
• Training specific to the requested
equipment
• Requested support activities for equipment
requiring supplies or expendables or “onetime”
use items essential for an award’s scope of
work, such as foam, breaching materials (e.g.,
wood or sheetrock) for ventilation or rescue
props, or the amount of fuel required to sustain
an awarded live fire training activity, or per
NFPA 1403 Standard on Live Fire Training
Evolutions, reasonable safety mitigations to a
structure acquired for training
• Subscriptions necessary for the operation of the
awarded equipment and purchased
concurrently within the POP
• Computing device may be considered for
reimbursement if essential to the operation of
the funded equipment.

Ineligible Equipment Activities Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS, Regional, and SFTA include but are not limited to:
• Construction of facilities, such as
buildings, towers, or sheds to house
communications
• All fixed non-mobile repeaters or fixed
site amplifiers
• Sirens or other outdoor warning devices
• Signage of any kind
• Phones (telephone/satellite/cell) and
carrier plans
• Utility Vehicles and All-Terrain Vehicles
(UTV/ATV)
• UAVs and Drones
• Bomb disposal equipment and robots
• Mobile radios for personally owned vehicles
(except Chief Fire Officer’s personal vehicle if
justified)
• Supplies or expendables or common one-time
use items such as foam, soaps, disinfectant
wipes, medical gowns/gloves, bandages, any
1092
60 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Investments in emergency
communications systems and equipment
must meet applicable SAFECOM
Guidance
• Personal Safety/Rescue Bailout System
(PPE)
• Computer assisted dispatch (CAD)
systems and software, geographic
information systems (GIS), dispatch
consoles, workstations and office
furniture
• Nonaffiliated EMS expendable supplies
(including but not limited to
medications)
• Vehicle mounted fans
drug, intravenous bags/fluids, defibrillator
pads/electrodes, syringes, cervical collars,
batteries, exhaust system filters and splints
• Flashover or other simulators/props that do not
meet NFPA 1402 or 1403 standard (homemade
or aftermarket simulators)
• Subscriptions, memberships, equipment rental
or lease to purchase
• Refurbished equipment
Key Requirements for Interoperable Communications Equipment under the AFG Program:
• Eligibility: the acquisition of P-25 compliant interoperable communications equipment is the only eligible activity for interoperable communications equipment under the AFG Program.
• P-25 Compliance:
o P-25 compliant equipment features a digital platform that is programmable, scalable, and capable of communicating in analog mode with legacy radios, as well as in both analog and digital modes with other P-25 equipment.
o P-25 compliance enhances interoperability, enabling first responders to effectively communicate and coordinate during all-hazard responses. o Non-P-25 compliant equipment is not allowed, and no waivers for P-25 compliance will be granted.
• SAFECOM Guidance: Recipients must comply with the SAFECOM Guidance for Emergency Communication Grants, including technical standards that ensure and enhance interoperable communications.
• Documentation Requirements: Recipients must obtain and retain documented evidence that the equipment has been tested and meets all applicable P-25 compliance requirements. This documentation must be available for submission to FEMA upon request.
• Application Affirmation: While applicants are not required to specify a particular P-25- compliant product in their application narrative, they must affirm that the requested or acquired interoperable communications equipment will meet P-25 compliance standards. • Note: Recipients using FY 2025 AFG Program funds for emergency communications activities must review and comply with the SAFECOM Guidance for Emergency Communication Grants available at SAFECOM Guidance. This guidance includes provisions on technical standards to ensure and enhance interoperable communications. 1093
61 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Emergency communication equipment, such as portable radios, must adhere to these standards. Additionally, recipients must ensure their projects align with their state’s Statewide Communications Interoperability Plan (SCIP) to support coordinated and effective emergency communications. Operations and Safety – PPE Overview AFG Program funds may only be used to acquire new, compliant PPE for firefighting and nonaffiliated EMS personnel. Only PPE compliant with the most current editions of NFPA 1971, 1977, 1981, and/or 1999 is eligible. The acquisition of used, refurbished, or updated PPE is ineligible for reimbursement. PPE requests should prioritize increasing firefighter safety. Replacement and Inventory Requirements: When requesting to replace or purchase new PPE (e.g., Turnout Gear or SCBA), applicants must provide the age of the items being replaced.
• Accurately describe and account for all PPE items in the current inventory within the application narrative.

PFAS-Free PPE:
• Exposure to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) has been linked to cancer and other health effects.
• Recipients are strongly encouraged to:
• Ask vendors about compliance with PFAS-free materials. • Purchase PFAS-free gloves, hoods, boots, and other items where readily available.

Noncompliance and Replacement Guidelines:
• Based on NFPA 1851, PPE (including SCBA) is considered noncompliant if:
• It is at least 10 years old and 2 NFPA cycles behind the current standard. • PPE less than 10 years old and 2 NFPA cycles behind may be eligible for replacement if it is deemed damaged, unsafe, or unrepairable, with sufficient justification provided.

High-Priority Requests:
• SCBA Face Pieces:
o Requesting or replacing an SCBA face piece for each operational member is a High Priority.
o Additional face pieces beyond those included with SCBA units must be requested as separate line items (e.g., if 35 face pieces are needed but only 25 SCBA units are requested, the remaining 10 face pieces must be listed separately). • Complete Gear Sets:
o Structural/Proximity PPE Turnout Gear (NFPA 1971 Compliant):
 One pair of pants, one coat, one helmet, two hoods, one pair of boots, two pairs of gloves, one pair of suspenders, and one pair of goggles.  If statutorily required, additional PPE (e.g., Personal Safety/Rescue Bailout Systems) will be considered part of a complete set.
o EMS PPE Turnout Gear (NFPA 1999 Compliant):
 One pair of pants, one coat, one helmet, one pair of boots, one pair of gloves, one pair of suspenders, and one pair of goggles.
1094
62 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
o Wildfire PPE Turnout Gear (NFPA 1977 Compliant):
 One pair of pants, one coat, one jumpsuit, one helmet, one pair of boots, one pair of gloves, one pair of suspenders, one pair of goggles, one fire shelter, web gear, backpack, and canteen/hydration system.
• Additional Funding:
o PPE Gear Bags and RIT Packs: Eligible for request under Additional Funding to support PPE or SCBA requests.
o SCBA Units: A complete SCBA unit includes a harness/backpack, one face piece, and two cylinders.
o Proper Fit Considerations:
o Recipients should prioritize proper fitting gear, including considerations for female firefighters.
• Training Requirements:
o Applicants must certify that all grant-funded PPE will only be used by sufficiently trained personnel. Failure to meet this requirement will result in the request being deemed ineligible.
o If training is requested to support a PPE activity, it must be entered in the “Additional Funding” section of the “Request Details” in the application.

The following are considerations in pre-scoring and peer review determinations:

Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS, Joint/Regional, and SFTA PPE Priorities Priority Purpose of Request Definitions
H
Increase supply for new hires
and/or existing firefighters that do
not have one set of turnout gear
(PPE) or allocated seated positions
(SCBA). This includes replacing
out of service PPE-Turnout Gear
and SCBA.

Applies to PPE-Turnout Gear for new
firefighters (i.e., new hires or volunteer
recruits) and/or existing firefighters that do
not currently have one set of PPE-Turnout
Gear, and to add SCBA to fill seated riding
positions that do not currently have SCBA.

H
Replace in-service or in-use
damaged/ unsafe/unrepairable
PPE/SCBA to meet current
standard
Applies to PPE-Turnout Gear and SCBA that
is deemed damaged unsafe and unrepairable
yet still in use at the time of application.

H
Replace in-service/in-use/expired/
noncompliant PPE/SCBA to
current standard
Applies to PPE-Turnout Gear or SCBA that
is deemed obsolete and/or is out of
compliance with current standards. PPETurnout Gear or SCBA to be replaced is not compliant with
1095
63 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
current standards; it is not broken, damaged
or otherwise unusable.

L
Replace PPE/SCBA to upgrade
technology to current standard
Applies to PPE-Turnout Gear or SCBA that
is less than 10 years old for PPE-Turnout
Gear or compliant within two NFPA cycles
for SCBA.

Additional Considerations for Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS, Joint/Regional, and SFTA for PPE or SCBA Priorities
• Higher priority is given to the age of requested PPE, reason for purchase/replacement, priority. Applicant’s call volume is a lesser factor. Applicants will be required to provide the age of the PPE being replaced.
• Applicants with the oldest PPE and/or trying to bring the department into 100% NFPA compliance or the number of active members who will have compliant gear.

PPE List
Structural/Proximity H
• American National Standards Institute
(ANSI) Traffic Vests
• Boots
• Coats
• Complete Set of Turnout Gear
• Gloves
• Goggles
• Helmets
• Hoods
• Pants
• Pass Devices
• Personal Safety/Rescue Bailout System
• Suspenders
Respiratory H
• Air-Line Unit
• Face Pieces
• Respirators
• SCBA Spare Cylinders
• SCBA (SCBA Unit includes Harness/
Backpack, Face Piece, and two cylinders)
Wildfire H
• Jumpsuits/Coveralls
• Boots
• Coats
• Pants
• Suspenders
• Goggles
• Shelters
• Web Gear/Backpacks
• Canteens/Hydration Systems
• Helmets
Specialized PPE M
1096
64 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Ballistic Protective Equipment (BPE),
which includes one vest, one helmet, one
triage bag, one pair of goggles
• Chemical/Biological Suites (must conform
to NFPA 1990 2022 edition)
• Extrication Clothing/Rescue Clothing
• Proximity Suits
• Splash Suits
• Wet and Dry Suits
• Encapsulated Suits
Eligible PPE Activities for Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS, Joint/Regional and SFTA include but are not limited to:
• ANSI approved retroreflective highway
apparel
• Training for requested PPE
• Turnout gear bags
• Customized helmet shields
• Level C suits
• Personal Safety/Rescue Bailout System
• Face Pieces Regulators
Ineligible PPE Activities for Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS, Joint/Regional and SFTA include but are not limited to:
• Three-quarter length rubber boots
• Uniforms (formal/parade or station/duty) and
uniform items (hats, badges, etc.)
• PPE gear bags (ineligible unless requested as
additional funds in association with a PPE
request)
• RIT packs (ineligible unless requested as
additional funds in association with SCBA
request)
• Air Compressor/Fill Station/Cascade Systems
(ineligible unless requested as additional
funds in association with a Regional SCBA
request)
• PPE gear washer/extractor/dryer (ineligible
unless requested additional funds in
association with PPE gear request)
• Personal Safety/Rescue Bailout System for
nonaffiliated EMS organizations
• Food and beverages
• Integrated Thermal Imaging Cameras
(TIC) with heads-up display
• Bomb disposal suits
• Any communications equipment (e.g.,
radios and pagers) in the PPE section
• Structural, proximity, wildfire firefighting
gear, or rescue and extrication gear for
nonaffiliated EMS organizations
• Any decals, embroidery, engraving, flags,
graphics, logos, vehicles, and PPE Turnout
lettering that customizes awarded items
beyond the normal expectation (except
customized helmet shields)
• Funding is limited to one set of PPETurnout Gear per person • Equipment rental or lease to purchase
• Note: Where bailout system is statutorily
required, FEMA will consider all
statutorily required items to be part of a
complete PPE set

Operations and Safety – Wellness and Fitness Overview
Wellness and Fitness Activities aim to enhance the mental, physical, and emotional resilience of emergency responders to meet the demands of all hazardous operations.

To be eligible for funding, applicants must currently offer or plan to offer all five Priority 1 activities outlined in the table below. These activities are considered essential for building and maintaining the overall wellness and fitness of emergency responders. 1097
65 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Fire Department and Nonaffiliated EMS Wellness and Fitness Priorities Priority 1: (H) Wellness and Fitness Activities:
• Initial Medical Exams
• Job-Related Immunizations
• Annual Medical and Fitness Evaluations
• Behavioral health Services
• Cancer Screening Program (aligned with NFPA 1582)
All five of the above must be in place to be considered a Complete Wellness and Fitness Program.

Departments that already have some Priority 1 programs in place must request funding to implement any missing Priority 1 programs before applying for funds for additional programs All grant-funded physicals (except for explorers) must comply with the current NFPA 1582 standards (Chapter 9, Occupational Medical Evaluation). The cost of physicals should reflect local physician or health center prices. For detailed guidance on implementing NFPA 1580 physicals, visit: First Responder Center.

Fire Department and Nonaffiliated EMS Wellness and Fitness Priorities Priority 2 (M) Wellness and Fitness Activities:
• Candidate Physical Ability Evaluation.
• Exercise Equipment.
• Formal Fitness Program Development Costs (e.g., IAFF/IAFC Peer Fitness Trainer Program, including travel, overtime, and implementation costs).
• Eligibility:
• Applicants can request Priority 2 items only if they currently offer or are requesting funding for all five required Priority 1 activities.

Important Notes:
• Lower Priority for Combined Requests: Applications requesting both Priority 1 and Priority 2 activities will receive lower funding consideration than those focused solely on completing Priority 1 activities.
• NFPA 1583 Standards:
o Establishes minimum requirements for developing and managing health-related fitness programs for fire department members involved in emergency operations. o Aims to improve occupational performance, safety, and health while reducing risks of injury and disease.

Guidance for Fitness Programs:
o Programs should require mandatory participation but must not be punitive. o NFPA 1583 focuses on improving overall health and fitness, not setting physical performance criteria.

Recommendation: Applicants should complete Priority 1 activities first to increase funding chances and align with program goals
1098
66 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Eligible Wellness and Fitness Activities for Fire Department and Nonaffiliated EMS include but are not limited to:
• Behavioral health programs to include, but
not limited to: Critical Incident Stress
Management Programs, Employee
Assistance Programs
• Transportation expenses related to
a member’s participation in offered
Wellness and Fitness activities
• Contractual costs (non-hiring) for personnel
(such as nutritional counseling), physical
fitness equipment (including shipping
charges and sales tax, as applicable), and
supplies directly related to physical fitness
activities
• Minor interior alterations (requested under
Additional Funding and limited to $10,000
total expenditure) to support the awarded
Wellness and Fitness activities (e.g.,
removal/ construction of a non-weight
bearing wall); note that these will require
EHP review
Ineligible Wellness and Fitness Activities for Fire Department and Nonaffiliated EMS include but are not limited to:
• Fitness club memberships for participants or
their families
• Non-cash incentives (e.g., t-shirts or hats of
nominal value, vouchers to local businesses,
or time-off)
• Purchase of real estate
• Cash incentives
• Food and beverages
• Subscriptions and memberships
• Saunas (including infrared)
• Hyperbaric chambers
• Ice baths
• Priority 1 or 2 items for anyone other than
fire personnel, fire inspector, or EMS
personnel
• Purchase of medical equipment
• Whole-body MRI scans
• Contractual services with anyone other than
medical professionals (e.g., health care
consultants, trainers, and nutritionists) for
programs such as smoking cessation
• Purchase of equipment or personal
protective equipment that is otherwise
eligible under the Equipment activity or the
PPE activity
Operations and Safety – Modifications to Facilities Overview AFG Program funds may be used to modify fire stations and other facilities to improve safety and health conditions. New fire station construction is not eligible.

Eligible Activities:
• Source Capture Exhaust Systems (SCES):
o SCES is a High Priority item for mitigating vehicle exhaust exposure. o These systems capture exhaust gases directly from the vehicle tailpipe and expel them outside the building via mechanical or pneumatic means. 1099
67 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Sprinkler Systems
• Carbon Monoxide Alarms
• Smoke/Fire Detection Systems
Important: Only systems specific to these functions are eligible. Multi-purpose systems that include ineligible features are not allowed.

Key Requirements:

1. Environmental and Historic Preservation (EHP) Review:
• All facility modifications, including major or minor changes and equipment installations, require EHP review.

2. Minor Interior Alterations:
• Minor alterations (e.g., removal or construction of a non-weight-bearing wall) to support Training or Wellness and Fitness activities are eligible under Additional Funding, with a total expenditure limit of $10,000.

3. Funding Cap:
• The total cost for modifications (e.g., a sprinkler system and exhaust system) cannot exceed $100,000 per individual station.

4. Structural Limitations:
• Modifications cannot change the structure’s footprint or profile.

5. Health and Safety Impact:
• Eligible projects must directly improve the health and safety of firefighters.

Additional Notes:
• Vehicle Mounted Exhaust Systems: these remain classified as a High Priority item under the Equipment Activity.
• Priority for Diesel Fume Mitigation: Due to the risks posed by diesel fumes, SCES systems are considered a high Priority for facility modifications.

Applicants should ensure all requested modifications align with these guidelines to maximize funding eligibility.

Facility Considerations:

1. Highest Priority:
• Facilities staffed full-time.
• Facilities with sleeping quarters.

2. Secondary Consideration:
• Facilities without sleeping quarters.
• Facilities with part-time occupancy.

3. Next Consideration:
• Training facilities.
• Marine fire facilities.
• Intermittently occupied facilities.

Applicants should align their requests with these priorities to optimize funding consideration.

All of the following are considerations in pre-scoring and peer review determinations:
1100
68 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Eligible Modifications to Facilities Priorities for Fire Department and Nonaffiliated EMS include but are not limited to:

H
• New source capture exhaust systems, sprinkler systems, carbon monoxide, or smoke/fire detection systems – only for these types of systems and not multi- purpose systems that encompass ineligible features as described below.
• Replacement or updates to existing source capture exhaust systems, sprinkler systems, carbon monoxide, or smoke/fire detection systems are considered lower priority over requests submitted for new systems.

M
• Emergency generators, Air Quality Systems (AQSs)
• Note: AQSs are fixed equipment that are air purifying, scrubbing, and/or air exchange systems.

Ineligible Modifications to Facilities Priorities for Fire Department and Nonaffiliated EMS include but are not limited to:
• Station maintenance
• Resurfacing of bay floors
• Interior remodeling not pertaining to the
requested project(s)
• Food and beverages
• Security systems, or other alerting systems
of similar purpose designed to notify fire
stations of unauthorized access or provide
deployment notifications or multi-purpose
systems that include any of these features
even if they also include otherwise eligible
features
Regional Applications Overview
A Regional application allows a fire department or nonaffiliated EMS organization to act as a host and apply or funding on behalf of itself and other participating AFG Program-eligible organizations. The host and its partners must be the intended beneficiaries of the proposed project.

Eligibility and Requirements:

1. Host Eligibility:
• A fire department can host on behalf of other eligible fire departments and nonaffiliated EMS organizations within the same application.
• A nonaffiliated EMS organization can only host other nonaffiliated EMS organizations. • State Fire Training Academies (SFTAs) are not eligible to apply under the Regional activity.

2. Eligible Regional Activities:
• Vehicle Acquisition
• Operations and Safety, limited to:
o Training
o Equipment
o Wellness and Fitness
1101
69 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
o PPE

3. Regional Goals:
• Projects must achieve cost-effectiveness, support regional efficiency and resilience, and directly benefit more than one local jurisdiction (e.g., county, parish, town, township, city, or village).

4. Vendor Requirement:
• All departments and agencies in a Regional application must use the same vendor to foster interoperability.
• Exceptions require pre-approval by FEMA in writing and must be based on compelling operational need.

Funding Limitations:
• Funding limits are based on the total Population served by the host and participating partners.
• Example: If the host and partners serve a population of 100,000 or fewer and receive a $1 million Regional award, the host has reached its funding cap and is no longer eligible for additional AFG Program funds.

Community and Population Considerations:
• The community identification characteristic (e.g., Rural, Urban, or Suburban) and the organizational status (e.g., Career, Combination, or Volunteer) of the host applicant will apply to the Regional application, regardless of the composition of the participating partners. • The regional population served is the aggregate of the geographically fixed primary firstdue response areas of the host and participating partners. o Exceptions: If the host is also the parent organization responsible for smaller, independent stations.
• The call volume for regional applications is the aggregate of the host and regional partners Application Restrictions:
• The host and participating partners may submit their own individual applications for AFG Program activities (Vehicle Acquisition or Operations and Safety) but not for the same item. o Example: A department cannot apply for PPE under its own application and also participate in a Regional PPE application.

Application Narrative Requirements:

The host must include:
• A list of all participating organizations benefiting from the Regional project. • Validated points of contact and each organization’s EIN. • Clear and detailed information on the requested regional activities. • Specific details on the distribution of grant-funded acquisitions or contracted services and the responsibilities of the host and partner organizations.

Host Responsibilities:
• The host is responsible for all aspects of the grant, including:
o Cost share.
o Accountability for assets.
o All reporting requirements.
• The host is not considered a pass-through entity and may not issue sub-awards. 1102
70 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• The host must provide macro demographics (e.g., total square miles) and master listings (e.g., combined SCBA inventories) for the region served.

Compliance Requirements:
• All participants must be compliant with AFG Program requirements, including:
o Current status on past grants.
o Closeouts.
o Reporting requirements.
• The host agency may not distribute grant-funded assets or provide grant-funded services to non-compliant partners. FEMA will notify the host and delinquent partners of specific deficiencies.

Memorandum of Understanding (MOU):
• A Regional host and participating partners must execute an MOU or equivalent document signed by all parties.
• The MOU must specify:
o Individual and mutual responsibilities of the host and partners. o Each participant’s level of involvement in the project(s). o EINs of participating partners.
o Proposed distribution of grant-funded assets or contracted services. • Copies of the MOU will be requested during the technical evaluation of the application if it is not included originally.
• Any entity benefiting from the award must be an eligible AFG Program organization and a party to the MOU.

By adhering to these guidelines, Regional applicants can ensure their applications meet AFG Program requirements and maximize their chances of receiving funding.

Vehicle Acquisition Guidelines
Eligibility and Standards:
• Vehicles purchased with AFG Program funds must comply with NFPA 1900 standards (Standard for Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Vehicles, Wildland Fire Apparatus, and Automotive Fire) or equivalent (e.g., Standard for Automotive Ambulances). • Leases, loan payments, or installment plans for vehicles are not eligible and will not be reimbursed.

Community Paramedic/Health Vehicles:
• These are non-transport vehicles and cannot serve a dual role (e.g., as utility or support vehicles).
• Emergency response packages (e.g., lights, sirens) and operational equipment (e.g., rescue tools, firefighting equipment) are ineligible for these vehicles.

Requesting Multiple Vehicles:
• Applicants may request more than one vehicle but must stay within the financial cap based on population listed in the application.
• If multiple requests are approved, the total funding for all vehicles must remain within the financial cap.
1103
71 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Each vehicle request requires:
o A separate line item.
o A complete narrative for each vehicle.
o Details such as the age and vehicle identification number (VIN) of each vehicle being replaced.
o VINs cannot be reused across multiple line items.

Vehicle Reassignment:
• If a vehicle is not being replaced but is having its service status changed (e.g., from first due to reserve), the VIN must still be provided in the narrative for the vehicle being reassigned.

Driver/Operator Training Requirements:

1. Fire Vehicles:
• Applicants must have drivers/operators trained to NFPA 1002 standards (or equivalent) or have a training program in place before the awarded vehicle is delivered. • Failure to meet this requirement will result in ineligibility for a vehicle award.

2. Nonaffiliated EMS Vehicles:
• Drivers/operators must be trained to the National Standard Emergency Vehicle Operator Curriculum (EVOC) developed by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) or equivalent.
• A training program must be in place before the awarded vehicle is delivered.

3. Driver Training Program Requests:
• Applicants may request funding for a driver training program within the “Vehicle Acquisition” section.
• this request must be added in the “Additional Funding” area in the “Request Details” section of the Vehicle Application.
• All training programs must be completed before vehicle delivery, or the recipient will be in violation of the grant agreement.

Evaluation Criteria:
• The pre-score evaluation considers the department’s need for the vehicle based on:
o The age and condition of current vehicles.
o The demands on the organization.

By adhering to these guidelines, applicants can ensure compliance with AFG Program requirements and improve their chances of securing funding for vehicle acquisition.

Eligible Vehicle Activities for Fire Department, and SFTA include but are not limited to:

Priority Urban Communities Suburban Communities Rural Communities 1104
72 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
H
• Aerial
• Ambulance
• Pumper
• Rescue Vehicle
Light, Medium, or Heavy
• Non-Transport EMS
(Community Paramedic/
• Healthcare)
• Quint
• Brush Type III or
larger
• Aerial
• Ambulance
• Pumper
• Tanker/Tender
• Rescue Vehicle Light,
Medium or heavy
• Non-Transport EMS
(Community Paramedic/
Healthcare)
• Quint
• Brush
• Aerial
• Ambulance
• Brush/Attack
• Pumper
• Tanker/Tender
• Non-Transport EMS
(Community Paramedic/
Healthcare)
• Quint
M
• Command/Mobile
Communications Vehicle
• HazMat Unit
• Air/Light Unit
• Rehab Unit
• Command/Mobile
Communications Vehicle
• HazMat Unit
• Air/Light Unit
• Rehab Unit
• Command/Mobile
Communications Vehicle
• Hazardous Materials
Unit
• Air/Light Unit
• Rescue Vehicle
Light, Medium or Heavy
L
• ARFF
• Foam Truck
• Fire Rescue/Boat
• Highway Safety
Unit
• Hybrid (i.e.,
Transport Engine)
• Tanker/Tender
• ARFF
• Foam Truck
• Highway Safety Unit
• Hybrid (i.e., Transport
Engine)
• Fire Rescue/Boat
• ARFF
• Foam Truck
• Highway Safety
Unit
• Hybrid (i.e.,
Transport Engine)
• Fire Rescue/Boat
• Rehab Unit
Eligible Regional Vehicle Activities for Fire Departments (ALL Community Types) H
• Aerial
• Air/Light Unit
• Bariatric Ambulance
• Command/Mobile Communications Vehicle
• Non-Transport EMS (Community Paramedic/healthcare)
• Rehab Unit
• Rescue Vehicle Light, Medium or heavy
• Tow Vehicle (Applied for under equipment)
M • Highway Safety Unit
L • Hazardous Materials Unit
• Foam Truck
Eligible Nonaffiliated EMS and Nonaffiliated Regional Vehicle Activities 1105
73 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
H
• Ambulances
• Bariatric Ambulance
• Non-Transport EMS (Community Paramedic/healthcare)
Compliance with Standards
• Ambulances must comply with NFPA 1900, or GSA Federal Standard KKK-A-1822F • Applicants must certify that unsafe vehicles will be permanently removed from service if awarded a grant; acceptable uses of unsafe vehicles include farm, nursery, scrap metal, salvage, construction, or donation to a foreign entity
• Applicants should consider adopting the principles of Traffic Incident Management Systems (TIMS); the USFA report on TIMS can be found on FEMA’s website at: Traffic Incident Management Systems
• New fire apparatus must be compliant with NFPA 1900 for the year ordered/manufactured

Additional Considerations (to include, but not limited to) • Age and mileage of the vehicle being replaced; older equipment receives higher consideration
• Age of the newest vehicle in the department’s fleet that is like the vehicle to be replaced • Average age of the fleet; older equipment within the same class • Call volume of primary first due response area or region • Converted vehicles (with an emphasis on tanker/brush trucks) not designed or intended for use in the fire service departments that have automatic aid agreements, mutual aid agreements, or both; a converted vehicle is any vehicle that is not engineered to an NFPA standard, or not being used for its original design, or over its gross vehicle weight • Vehicles on loan to the organization in the application narrative but not in the organization’s inventory
• Damaged vehicles and out of service vehicles in the organization’s inventory • Replacement of open cab/jump seat configurations

IMPORTANT
Vehicle Inventory Requirements:
• Applicants may need to provide additional fleet details after submitting their application. • Vehicle inventory must include:
o Owned vehicles.
o Leased or long-term loaned vehicles.
o Vehicles ordered or under contract but not yet received.

Vehicle Definitions:
• Front Line Vehicle: Fully equipped and ready for emergency response. • Ready-Reserve Vehicle: Equipped and can quickly be made ready for response. • Reserve Vehicle: Not fully equipped, used when front-line vehicles are out of service. 1106
74 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Temporarily Out of Service Vehicle: Removed from service for repairs but will return to front-line or reserve status.
• Decommissioned Vehicle: Permanently removed from emergency duties (e.g., retired, parade use). Not included in inventory or eligible for replacement.

Vehicle Contract Requirements:
• Recipients must submit a copy of the vehicle purchase contract to FEMA for compliance monitoring.
• Without a contract, recipients cannot:
o Request advance federal funds for partial payments.
o Request a project extension.

Bond Requirements:
• Performance Bond (Recommended): Protects applicant funds if the vendor fails to deliver or goes out of business.
• Prepayment Bond (Required): Protects federal funds if federal money is advanced for a down payment. Costs are reimbursable under the grant.

Penalty Clause:
• Contracts must include a penalty clause of at least $100/day for non-delivery or nonperformance by the vendor. Exceptions require FEMA approval.

Payment Guidelines:
• Down Payment: Allowed up to 25% of the federal share. Costs beyond this must be covered by the recipient.
• Final Payment: May be requested in advance but cannot be disbursed until the vehicle is received, inspected, and accepted.

Eligible Vehicle Activities for Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS Organizations, Joint/Regional, and SFTA include but are not limited to:
• Cost of vehicle
• Physicals to meet current NFPA 1582/US
DOT 649 F
• Cost of associated equipment that is eligible
under current NFPA 1900
• Driver/operator training programs that meet
applicable standards, current NFPA 1002 or
EVOC, or equivalent
• Travel expenses (air/rail transportation,
mileage, hotel/lodging) to inspect a
requested vehicle during production Note:

Food and beverages are ineligible travel
expenses
Ineligible Vehicle Activities for Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS Organizations, Joint/Regional, and SFTA include but are not limited to:
• Leasing, rental, or installment purchase of
any grant funded vehicle
• Aircraft, bulldozers, or construction- related
equipment
• Using the vehicle being awarded as
collateral for any financial loan
• UTVs and ATVs
• UAVs and drones
• Used or refurbished apparatus
• Converted vehicles not originally designed
for firefighting
• Food and beverages
1107
75 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Examples of vehicle types
• Pumper (an apparatus that carries a minimum of 300 gallons of water and has a pump with the capacity to pump a minimum of 750 gallons per minute [GPM]) • Urban interface vehicles (Type I) pumper (300 gallons of water and 750 GPM) • Ambulance (vehicle used for transporting patients)
• Tanker/Tender (an apparatus that has water capacity in excess of 1,000 gallons of water) • Quint Aerial (an aerial ladder, elevating platform, or water tower that is designed to position personnel, handle materials, provide continuous egress, or discharge water) • Quint (fire apparatus with a permanently mounted fire pump, a water tank, a hose storage area, an aerial ladder or elevating platform with a permanently mounted waterway, and a complement of ground ladders)
• Aerial Ladder (elevating platform, or water tower that is designed to position personnel, handle materials, provide continuous egress, or discharge water) Unsafe Vehicles: Certification and Disposition Requirements Certification Requirement:

Applicants who specify that the vehicle(s) to be replaced are unsafe must certify that, if awarded, the vehicle will be permanently removed from emergency service response. • Permanently Removed means:
o The recipient cannot use the vehicle for any emergency service response. o The recipient cannot sell or transfer the vehicle to any individual or emergency service response organization that would use it for emergency service response.

Grant Agreement Violation:
• If a recipient certifies that an unsafe vehicle will be removed from service but later sells or transfers the vehicle to another emergency service response organization or otherwise fails to remove the vehicle from emergency service response, the recipient will be considered in violation of the grant agreement.

Acceptable Dispositions for Unsafe Vehicles:

Unsafe vehicles may be donated or sold for purposes that do not involve emergency service response. Acceptable dispositions include:
• Donation or Sale to a Training Facility:
o The vehicle may be used for training purposes only, with no emergency response outside the training grounds.
• Farm Use:
o The vehicle may be repurposed for agricultural activities. • Construction or Nursery Use:
o The vehicle may be used for construction or nursery operations. • Sale to a Non-Emergency Service Response Entity:
o The vehicle may be sold for refurbishment or other non-emergency uses. • Scrap Metal or Salvage:
o The vehicle may be dismantled or sold for parts.
• Foreign Donation:
o The vehicle may be donated to entities outside the United States for nonemergency purposes. 1108
76 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
By adhering to these guidelines, recipients ensure compliance with the grant agreement and maintain safety standards.

C. Appendix C – Award Administration Information
Appendix C provides detailed guidance on the programmatic and financial administration of AFG Program awards. Recipients are encouraged to review this information to ensure compliance with award requirements and to effectively manage their grant activities.

Help FEMA Prevent Fraud, Waste, and Abuse
If applicants or recipients have information about instances of fraud, waste, abuse, or mismanagement involving FEMA programs or operations, they should contact the DHS Office of Inspector General (OIG) hotline at (800) 323-8603, by fax at (202) 254-4297, or email [email protected].

Grant Writer/Preparation Fees: Eligibility and Documentation Requirements Eligibility for Reimbursement: Grant Writer Fees may be included as a pre-award expenditure, subject to the following conditions: Fees must comply with the cost-share requirement. Services must be competitively sourced, specifically identified, and listed in the “Request Details” section of the application. Costs must comply with 2 C.F.R. § 200.458. Reimbursement is limited to application preparation (not administration) and capped at $1,500. Timing of Allowable Costs:
• Fees must be paid within the following timeframe:
o 90 days prior to the publication date of the NOFO and up to 30 days after the application period closes.

Retainer or Subscription Fees:
• Retainer or subscription fees are eligible if:
o They were competitively secured.
o Costs are limited to the start of the appropriation period for the underlying award. o They meet the requirements under 2 C.F.R. § 200.458.

Ineligible Costs:
• Fees payable on a contingency basis are not eligible. • Federal funds cannot be used to pay entities, including grant writers, that are suspended or debarred from federal contracts.

Verification of Contractor Eligibility:
• Recipients must verify contractor eligibility under 2 C.F.R. § 180.300 to ensure compliance.

Accuracy and Certification:
• Applicants must review all work produced by grant writers or third parties for accuracy before submission.
• By submitting the application, applicants certify that:
o All information is true and accurate.
o Submission of false or misleading information, regardless of intent, may result in actions by FEMA, including:
 The application not being considered for award.
 Temporary withholding of funding under an existing award pending investigation.
 Referral to the DHS Office of Inspector General (OIG).

Required Documentation:

Applicants must provide the following documentation to FEMA upon request:

1. Grant Writer’s Contract for Services
1109
77 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO

2. Invoice or Purchase Order

3. Canceled Check (Front and Back)

4. Evidence of Competitive Procurement
• If local procurement policies do not require competitive bidding for amounts under $1,500, applicants may be asked to provide a copy of that policy.

Failure to provide the requested documentation may result in the grant writer fee being deemed ineligible, and the grant may be reduced accordingly.

Application Participants:
• FEMA requires applicants to identify all individuals or organizations that assisted with the development, preparation, or review of the application in the “Contact Information” section.
• This includes anyone involved in drafting or writing the narrative and budget, whether:
o Compensated or not.
o Assistance occurred before submission of the application.

By adhering to these guidelines, applicants can ensure compliance with FEMA requirements and avoid issues with grant writer fee eligibility.

Maintenance and Sustainment for AFG Programs
Allowable Costs:
• FEMA preparedness grant funds may cover repairs, replacements, maintenance contracts, warranties, and user fees if they directly support critical capabilities developed with FEMA or DHS grants.

Unallowable Costs:
• Routine upkeep (e.g., gasoline, tire replacement, oil changes, inspections, or facility maintenance) and related supplies are the recipient's responsibility and cannot be funded by the grant.

Guidelines for Maintenance Agreements, Warranties, and User Fees:

1. Grant Period Limitation:
• Maintenance agreements, service contracts, or warranties purchased with grant funds cannot extend beyond the grant's period of performance, unless:
o The warranty is incidental to the original equipment purchase and aligns with typical coverage for such items.

2. Stand-Alone Agreements:
• Warranties or maintenance contracts for already-owned equipment cannot exceed the grant's period of performance.

3. Reasonableness:
• Extended warranties or agreements must be reasonable for the equipment's expected useful life. For example, a 10-year warranty on equipment with a 5-year lifespan is not reasonable and cannot be charged to the grant.

Taxes, Fees, Levies, and Assessments
Taxes, fees, levies, or assessments that the recipient is legally required to pay and are directly related to any eligible AFG Program acquisition activity may be charged to an AFG Program award pursuant to 2 C.F.R. § 200.470. These charges shall be identified and enumerated in the AFG Program application narrative, as well as the “Request Details” section of the acquisition activity.
1110
78 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Any avoidable and unreasonable costs that result from the action or inaction of a recipient (or recipient’s agent) or that prevent that recipient from enjoying any lawful exemption, waiver, or reduction of any tax, fee, levy, or assessment directly related to any eligible AFG Program acquisition activity, are not chargeable to any AFG award.

Example: Governmental entities and Public Safety Agencies are exempt from some Federal Communications Commission (FCC) fees*, but only if the eligible organization submits an exemption or waiver request to the FCC.
*Government entities are not required to pay FCC regulatory fees. Nonprofit entities (exempt under Section 501 of the Internal Revenue Code) may also be exempt. The FCC requires that any entity claiming exempt status submit, or have on file with the FCC, a valid Internal Revenue Service Determination Letter documenting its nonprofit status or certification from a governmental authority attesting to its exempt status. For more information, please visit the Federal Communications Commission website.

Excess Funds: Guidelines and Restrictions:

FEMA expects recipients to complete awarded activities within the budget allocated. However, excess funds may remain after completing the original project described in the recipient’s award.

This may be due to cost savings from under-budget acquisition activities or competitive procurement processes. These excess funds are to generally be deobligated and may not be used for additional activities.

FEMA may consider exceptions if urgent and compelling needs are identified that directly relate to a demonstrated event(s) impacting the health and safety of the department's firefighters, such as a presidentially declared disaster. Requests must be submitted at least 120 days prior to period of performance expiration. NOTE: the opportunity for excess funds is limited when the original uncompleted Scope of Work is changed via an amendment such as reduction in quantities.

Payments and Amendments
FEMA uses the Direct Deposit/Electronic Funds Transfer method of payment to recipients.

AFG Program payment/drawdown requests are generated using FEMA GO. Recipients should not expend funds until all special conditions listed on the grant award document have been met, including completion of EHP review, and the request for payment in FEMA GO has been approved. Recipients should draw down funds based upon immediate disbursement requirements; however, FEMA strongly encourages recipients to draw down funds as close to disbursement or expenditure as possible to avoid accruing interest.

Non-federal entities should keep detailed records of all transactions involving the grant. FEMA may at any time, request copies of any relevant documentation and records, including purchasing documentation along with copies of cancelled checks for verification. See, e.g., 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.318(i), 200.334, 200.337.

Advances
Advance Payments:
• Recipients can receive advance payments if they:

1. Minimize the time between receiving funds and spending them (within 30 days).

2. Maintain financial management systems that meet federal standards (2 C.F.R. Part 200).

Requirements for Advance Payments:
• Recipients must submit invoices or purchase orders with their payment requests. 1111
79 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Environmental and Historic Preservation (EHP) review must be completed before advance payments are made.

Compliance with Federal Laws:
• Recipients must follow federal laws in effect when the grant is awarded, including:
o Uniform Administrative Requirements (2 C.F.R. Part 200). o Cash Management Improvement Act (CMIA) (31 C.F.R. Part 205).

Interest on Federal Funds:
• Interest accrues from the time funds are deposited into the recipient’s account until they are spent on program purposes.
• For the interest rate, refer to the Treasury Current Value of Funds Rate.

Reimbursement
Reimbursement Payments:
• Reimbursement is preferred if advance payment requirements under 2 C.F.R. § 200.305 cannot be met.
• Recipients must minimize the time between receiving funds and spending them, as required by 31 C.F.R. Part 205.

Requirements for Reimbursement Requests:
• Recipients must provide:

1. Proof of purchase (e.g., canceled check or credit card transaction).

2. Active SAM.gov registration.

3. Final invoice(s).

Rebates
Recipients shall disburse program income, rebates, refunds, contract settlements, audit recoveries, and interest earned on such funds before requesting additional cash payments, in accordance with 2 C.F.R. § 200.305. The reduction of federal financial participation via rebates/refunds may generate excess funds for the recipient if the recipient previously obligated their Cost Share match based upon the original award figures. If the recipient previously obligated their original Cost Share prior to the rebate, then the recipient may have minimum excess funds equal to the difference between the original Cost Share less the rebate adjusted Cost Share
Payment Requests During Closeout
Reimbursement Payment Requests:
• Recipients may submit reimbursement payment requests up to 120 days after the expiration of the Period of Performance (POP) during the award’s closeout reconciliation. • Reimbursement payments are the only eligible payment requests allowed after the grant’s POP has expired.

Eligibility Requirements for Reimbursement:
• The expenditure must have been obligated and the goods or services received during the active POP of the award.
• The payment request must include clear and specific information certifying that the liquidation of federal funds is for an obligation properly incurred during the active POP.

FEMA Review:
• FEMA may request supporting documentation for the reimbursement at any time for review.
1112
80 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
By adhering to these guidelines, recipients can ensure compliance with FEMA requirements for payment requests during the closeout period.

Amendments to AFG Program Awards: Guidelines
General Expectations:
• Recipients are expected to complete their projects as awarded. • The AFG Program does not guarantee approval of any deviation from the original award. • Amendments may be approved by FEMA on a case-by-case basis for specific reasons.

Allowable Reasons for Amendments:

1. Extension of the Period of Performance (POP):
• Extensions are limited to 6 months and only to complete the original, unamended scope of work. (vehicles/apparatus awards may be granted additional time) • Extensions cannot be used to utilize excess funds.
• Extension requests must be submitted 120 days prior to the period of performance expiring

2. Changes to the Award Scope:
• Changes to specific item descriptions.
• Adjustments to quantities of items or services procured. • Retroactive approval (pre-award).
• Closeout issues.

3. Budget Changes:
• Non-closeout deobligation of funds.
• Adjustments to unit prices due to changes in quantities.

Submission Requirements:
• Amendments must be submitted via FEMA GO.
• Requests must include specific and compelling justifications for the proposed changes. • Amendments must be submitted at least 120 days before the end of the Period of Performance (POP).

Additional Requirements:
• Recipients must maintain an active SAM.gov registration for all amendments to be considered.

By adhering to these guidelines, recipients can ensure their amendment requests are properly submitted and have the best chance of being approved by FEMA.

Deobligation of Unused Funds: Guidelines
What is Deobligation?
• Deobligation refers to the return of unused funds, including:
o Funds previously drawn down via payment requests.
o Remaining award funding that was never requested.

Process for Deobligation:

1. Submit an Amendment in FEMA GO:
• The recipient must submit an amendment stating that the unliquidated funds are not necessary for fulfilling the grant’s obligations or mission. • The amendment must also indicate the recipient’s understanding that the returned funds will be deobligated and will no longer be available for any future award expenses.

2. Confirmation Process:
• FEMA will confirm the deobligation amendment with all points of contact listed in the grant. 1113
81 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• After confirmation, FEMA will hold the approved deobligation request for 14 days to allow the recipient time to reconsider.

3. Finalization:
• Once processed, the deobligation of funds is permanent and cannot be reversed.

Impact of Deobligation:
• Deobligation will:
o Decrease the federal portion of the grant.
o Reduce the recipient’s Cost Share obligation.
o
By following this process, recipients can return unused funds in compliance with FEMA guidelines while ensuring proper documentation and understanding of the deobligation's finality.

Disposition of Grant Funded Equipment
A recipient must use, manage, and dispose of AFG Program-funded equipment in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards at 2 C.F.R. § 200.313. Except for state governments, when original or replacement equipment acquired under an AFG award is no longer needed for the original project, program, or other activities currently or previously supported by a federal awarding agency, the recipient must request disposition instructions from FEMA. FEMA strongly recommends contacting the Fire Grants Help Desk prior to the disposition of AFG Program funded equipment, to include vehicles.
1114
City of Salinas
Legislation Text
200 Lincoln Ave., Salinas,
CA 93901
www.salinas.gov
File #: ID#26-278, Version: 1
Sublease Agreement with Victory Mission for 115, 119, and 125 East Lake Street Approve a Resolution authorizing the City Manager to sign the Sublease Agreement between the City of Salinas and Victory Mission for the City Leased property located at 115, 119 and 125 East Lake Street.

City of Salinas Page 1 of 1 Printed on 6/13/2026
powered by Legistar™1115
Page | 1

CITY OF SALINAS

COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: JUNE 16, 2026
DEPARTMENT: ADMINISTRATION
FROM: LISA MURPHY, ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER
TITLE: SUBLEASE AGREEMENT WITH VICTORY MISSION FOR 115, 119, AND 125 EAST LAKE STREET
RECOMMENDED MOTION:

A motion to approve a resolution authorizing the City Manager to sign the Sublease Agreement between the City of Salinas and Victory Mission for the City Leased property located at 115, 119 and 125 East Lake Street.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

Since 2014, the City of Salinas has leased the property located at 115, 119, and 125 East Lake Street for use as a homeless shelter known as the Chinatown Navigation Center (CNC). Due to the loss of operational funding, the CNC ceased operations on May 30, 2026. All residents have been relocated into other housing options.

The closure of the facility has created a concern that the vacant building may become susceptible to vandalism, illegal activity, and property deterioration. Victory Mission, a local nonprofit organization that provides services to individuals experiencing homelessness and operates nearby, has expressed interest in utilizing the facility for administrative and program-related purposes.

To ensure the property remains occupied, maintained, and secure while the City's lease remains in effect, staff recommends approval of a sublease agreement with Victory Mission for a nominal fee of $1.00 per month through the expiration of the City's lease term.

BACKGROUND:

In November 2014, the City entered into a lease agreement with property owner Leon De Asis for the property located at 115, 119, and 125 East Lake Street. The site consists of approximately 3,600 square feet of office and meeting space, together with an adjacent parking lot situated on approximately 0.33 acres.

The property has served as the Chinatown Navigation Center and remains under lease to the City through November 30, 2033. In September 2025, the City provided the property owner with the required two-year notice of its intent to terminate the lease on September 1, 2026. 1116
Page | 2
As a result of funding constraints, operations at the Chinatown Navigation Center ended on May 30, 2026. The facility is now vacant and, if left unoccupied, could become vulnerable to vandalism, unauthorized entry, and other public safety concerns. Recent incidents involving vandalism and structure fires in the surrounding area underscore the importance of maintaining active occupancy and oversight of the property.

Victory Mission is a nonprofit organization providing emergency overnight shelter and day services in the Chinatown neighborhood. Victory Mission operates their program within close proximity of the site and has approached the City regarding temporary use of the building. Victory Mission proposes to utilize the facility for administrative offices and related operations during regular business hours. Because the organization maintains a nearby presence seven days per week, its occupancy of the facility will provide ongoing monitoring and stewardship of the property.

Staff evaluated alternative methods of securing the vacant facility, including the use of private security services. However, the estimated cost of providing continuous on-site security was determined to be financially impractical. Occupancy of the building by a responsible nonprofit partner represents the most cost-effective and efficient means of preserving the property, reducing the risk of vandalism, and maintaining the facility until the City's lease expires.

Accordingly, staff recommends entering into a sublease agreement with Victory Mission for a nominal rent of $1.00 per month through September 1, 2027.

CEQA CONSIDERATION:

The City of Salinas has determined that the proposed action is categorically exempt from environmental review pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (CEQA Guidelines Section 15301).

CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE §84308 APPLIES:

Yes, Government Code §84308/Levine Act applies to this item.

STRATEGIC PLAN INITIATIVE:

Approval of the proposed sublease supports the City's Strategic Plan Goal 5: Public Safety, specifically by fostering collaboration with community partners to address public safety and public health concerns while preserving and securing City-leased assets.

DEPARTMENTAL COORDINATION:

This item has been coordinated with the City Attorney's Office and the Administration Department.
1117
Page | 3
FISCAL AND SUSTAINABILITY IMPACT:

The City currently pays approximately $2,100 per month under the existing lease agreement.

Approval of the proposed sublease will not increase the City's lease obligations; however, it will substantially reduce the risk of vandalism, property damage, and other costs associated with maintaining a vacant facility.

The proposed arrangement also avoids the potentially significant expense of contracting for private security services while ensuring the continued care and oversight of the property until the lease term expires.

There is no significant fiscal impact associated with the proposed sublease beyond the administrative costs of managing the agreement.

ATTACHMENTS:

Sublease Agreement
Resolution
https://salinasca-my.sharepoint.com/personal/lisagm_ci_salinas_ca_us/Documents/Economic Development/Real property/115 119 125 E Lake St_Sublease Victory Mission.docx 1118
RESOLUTION NO. (N.C.S.)

A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE SUBLEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE

CITY OF SALINAS AND VICTORY MISSION, A CALIFORNIA NONPROFIT

RELIGIOUS CORPORATION FOR THE CITY LEASED PROPERTY LOCATED AT 115, 119, AND 125 EAST LAKE STREET
WHEREAS, the City is the lessee of that real property (the “Property”) known 115, 119, and 125 East Lake Street also known as Monterey County Assessor’s Parcel Number (APNs 003- 131-012-000 and 003-131-012-000 (the “Property”); and
WHEREAS, the City leases the property from Mr. Leon De Asis with a term ending November 30, 2033; and
WHEREAS, the Property has been utilized as a emergency shelter known as the Chinatown Navigation Center (CNC) since 2014; and
WHEREAS, the City ceased operations of the CNC on May 30, 2026 and because of the closure this has created a concern that the vacant building may become susceptible to vandalism, illegal activity, and property deterioration; and
WHEREAS, to ensure the property remains occupied, maintained, and secure the City will sublease the property to Victory Mission for $1.00 per month until September 1, 2027; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Salinas City Council hereby finds and determines that the above recitals and accompanying Staff Report are true and correct and have served as the basis, in part, for the actions of the City Council set forth below; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT that the City Manager be and is hereby authorized and directed, for and on behalf of the City of Salinas to execute the attached Sublease Agreement between the City of Salinas and Victory Mission; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the City Council hereby determines that the proposed Sublease Agreement is Categorically Exempt pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, as the Sublease Agreement does not propose any change of use or expansion of any existing use; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council authorizes the City Manager or his/her designee to take such other actions as may be necessary to execute such other documents as are appropriate to effectuate the intent of this Resolution.

PASSED AND APPROVED this 16th day of June 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:
1119
ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

APPROVED:
________________________
Dennis Donohue, Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________
Patricia M. Soratos, City Clerk
Exhibit A: Sublease Agreement,
1120
City of Salinas
Sublease Agreement—115, 119, and 125 East Lake Street—Victory Mission Page 1 of 9 June 2026

SUBLEASE AGREEMENT
115, 119, and 125 East Lake Street
THIS SUBLEASE AGREEMENT (“Sublease”) is made and entered into this 16th day of June 2026, by and between the City of Salinas, a California charter city and municipal corporation, hereinafter called the “City,” and Victory Mission, a California nonprofit religious Corporation, hereinafter called “Subtenant.”

RECITALS
WHEREAS, the City currently leases that real property and improvements located thereon (the “Premises”) consisting of approximately 3,600 rentable square feet of meeting and office space, and an adjacent parking lot, all located on an approximately .33 acre lot, located there at 115, 119, and 125 East Lake Street in the City of Salinas, California, County of Monterey (APNs 003-131-012-000 and 003-131-012-000), which is more particularly shown on Exhibit A, attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference; and WHEREAS, on November 4, 2015, the City entered into a ten (10) year Lease (the “City Lease”) for the abovedescribed Premises with Leon De Asis (“Property Owner”); and WHEREAS, on November 4, 2022, the City and the Property Owner extended the term of the City Lease for an additional ten (10) year period through November 30, 2033; and WHEREAS, the City has determined that the Premises is no longer necessary for City operations and the City will, therefore, cease operations within the Premises at the end of May 2026; and WHEREAS, the City has determined that the Subtenant’s use and occupancy of the Premises provides a benefit to the general public and helps maintain the health, safety, and welfare of the general public; and WHEREAS, Section 11 of the City Lease permits the City to sublease the Premises; and WHEREAS, the City desires to sublease the Property to the Subtenant for the term hereinafter provided and the Subtenant desires to accept such Sublease upon the terms and subject to the conditions contained herein.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements set forth in this Sublease, the parties agree as follows:

AGREEMENT

1. PREMISES. The City hereby subleases to the Subtenant and the Subtenant hereby subleases from the City, upon the terms and conditions herein set forth, that certain real property and all improvements, structures, and fixtures located thereon, situated at 115, 119, and 125 East Lake Street, Salinas, California (Monterey County Assessor’s Parcel Numbers 003-131-012-000 and 003-131-014-000), consisting generally of approximately 3,600 rentable square feet of meeting and office space, and an adjacent parking lot, and described more particularly in Exhibit A, which is attached and incorporated herein by reference (the “Premises”). The Subtenant accepts the Premises “as-is, where-is” following execution of the “Acceptance of the Subleased Premises” provided in Exhibit B to this Agreement.

2. TERM. This Sublease shall be for a term of approximately seventeen (17) months, commencing on June 17, 2026, ("Commencement Date"), and ending on September 1, 2027 (the “Term”), unless terminated earlier pursuant to the provision of this Sublease. Upon the expiration or the earlier termination of this Sublease, Subtenant shall peaceably vacate the Premises and any and all improvements located thereon and deliver the same to the City in at least as good a condition as it was delivered to Subtenant on the Commencement Date, reasonable wear and tear and casualty excepted.

The Subtenant acknowledges that the City’s Lease of the Premises shall expire on September 25, 2027, that the City Docusign Envelope ID: E34D1A2F-E9BC-8046-832B-C17ED98C11D2 1121356
City of Salinas
Sublease Agreement—115, 119, and 125 East Lake Street—Victory Mission Page 2 of 9 June 2026
does not intend to renew the City Lease, and that the City therefore cannot provide any extensions or renewals of this Sublease. In the event Subtenant does not vacate the Premises at the termination of the City Lease, Subtenant agrees to compensate City for any losses or costs (including, if applicable, reasonable attorney’s fees) sustained by the City as a result of Subtenant’s failure to vacate by the termination of the City Lease, including holdover rent due to the Property Owner from the City and any costs sustained by the City to remove Subtenant’s property from the Premises. Further, Subtenant agrees to hold City harmless for any losses it may sustain as a result of any actions taken by the Property Owner as a result of Subtenant’s failure to vacate the Premises at the termination of this sublease.

3. RENT. Commencing on the Commencement Date and continuing through the entire term of this Sublease, Subtenant shall pay to the City, as rent, the amount of one dollar and no cents ($1.00) per month (“Rent”) for the use and the possession of the Premises.

4. USE. Subtenant shall use the Premises for general office space for administrative program support and case management, including associated vehicle parking. Subtenant may alter said use to any lawful purpose, upon the written consent of the City, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld. Uses allowed pursuant to this Sublease shall be for the duration of the Sublease only, and this Sublease shall not constitute a land use entitlement or permit for any use beyond the term of the Sublease.

5. COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS. Subtenant shall comply with all statutes, ordinances, regulations, and requirements of all governmental entities, both federal and state and county or municipal relating to Subtenant’s use and occupancy of the Premises, whether those statutes, ordinances, regulations, and requirements are now in force or are subsequently enacted.

6. TAXES AND ASSESSMENTS. This Sublease may create a taxable possessory interest, the timely payment of which, together with any other taxes or assessments imposed against Subtenant or the activities of Subtenant shall be paid by Subtenant before they become delinquent. The City shall be responsible for the payment of all real property assessments imposed on the Premises, including those imposed by any improvement district or special taxing authority.

7. UTILITIES. The Subtenant shall pay, and hold the City free and harmless from, all charges for the furnishing of gas, water, electricity, telephone service, garbage pickup and disposal, and other public utilities to the Premises during the term of this Sublease. Further, Subtenant shall provide its own custodial services for said Premises.

8. ALTERATIONS AND IMPROVEMENTS. Prior to occupancy, Subtenant acknowledges personal inspection of the Premises and of the surrounding areas and evaluation of the extent to which the physical condition of the Premises and of the surrounding area will or may affect the operation of the Premises. By signing the “Acceptance” provided in Exhibit B and attached hereto, the Subtenant has completed its evaluation and accepts the Subleased Premises in “As-is, Where-is” condition, provided that the City shall remove all of its personal property from the Premises prior to the Commencement Date. Subtenant shall not be permitted to make any alterations or improvements to the Premises. The City has made no other representations or warranties as to the condition of the Premises or to its fitness for the uses intended by the Subtenant. Subtenant shall make no demand upon the City for any improvements, rehabilitation, repairs or alterations of the Premises.

9. MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS. Subtenant, at its sole cost, shall be solely responsible for keeping the Premises, and every part thereof, both inside and outside, clean and in good condition and repair, reasonable wear and tear excepted, and for all interior non-structural repairs and maintenance, including maintenance of telephone, plumbing, and electrical systems, and all appliances, lighting, and light bulbs, flooring, ceilings, walls, doors, door locks, door frames, windows, window locks, window frames, and the painted surfaces. Subject to the provisions of the next paragraph, Subtenant shall be responsible for all damage or destruction to the Premises caused by any act(s) of the Subtenant or by Subtenant’s employees, agents, licensees, and/or contractors.

If the Premises are totally or partially destroyed by fire, earthquake, accident, or other casualty to the extent that Docusign Envelope ID: E34D1A2F-E9BC-8046-832B-C17ED98C11D2 1122357
City of Salinas
Sublease Agreement—115, 119, and 125 East Lake Street—Victory Mission Page 3 of 9 June 2026
the Premises are so damaged as to materially and adversely affect Subtenant’s ability to conduct its normal business operations from the Premises, Subtenant shall notify City of such casualty within five (5) days of the occurrence. City shall contact Property Owner pursuant to the terms of the City Lease (including Section 9 of the City Lease). If the Property Owner elects to terminate the City Lease pursuant to Section 9 of the City Lease, this Sublease shall terminate as well on the same date that the City Lease is terminated. If the Property Owner provides notice that Property Owner is unable or unwilling to make the necessary repairs within 90 days, City shall provide Subtenant with a copy of such notice within five (5) days of receipt. Subtenant may thereafter within five (5) days following such notice request that City terminate the City Lease. If City elects to terminate the City Lease, this Sublease shall terminate on the same date as the City Lease. In either of the above cases, the Subtenant’s rent shall be reduced in an amount equal to the reduction in City’s rent under the City Lease. If Property Owner elects to repair and/or rebuild the Premises, and thereafter is able to complete such restoration within 90 days from the date of damage, then this Sublease will remain in full force and effect.

10. INDEMNIFICATION. Subtenant shall defend, hold harmless, and indemnify City and its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers, in addition to the Property Owner, from and against any and all liability, loss, damage, expense, and costs (including without limitation costs and fees of litigation) of every nature arising out of Subtenant’s negligent or intentional acts, Subtenant’s use and occupancy of the Premises, Subtenant’s performance hereunder, or Subtenant’s failure to comply with any of its obligations contained in this Sublease, except to the extent such loss or damage was caused by the negligence or willful misconduct of the City or the Property Owner.

11. INSURANCE. Subtenant shall, at its own cost and expense, maintain the insurance specified and required at Exhibit C hereto. City is not responsible for insuring Subtenant’s personal property located on the Premises.

12. HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES. Subtenant shall store and handle any hazardous materials at the site materially in accordance with all statutes, ordinances, regulations, and requirements of all governmental entities, both federal and state and county or municipal relating to Subtenant’s use and occupancy of the Premises, whether those statutes, ordinances, regulations, and requirements are now in force or are subsequently enacted. Any damage or losses caused by the use or release of these materials at the site, whether or not caused by Subtenant’s negligence, shall be the responsibility of the Subtenant. Subtenant shall be solely responsible for the costs of cleanup and remediation of any spill or discharge of any hazardous substances during the Term of this Sublease including, but not limited to, gasoline and oil from vehicles not existing at the commencement of this Sublease. As required by law, Subtenant shall immediately notify the City in writing of any material release of hazardous substances during the Term of this Sublease occurring on or beneath the Premises.

13. ENTRY AND INSPECTION. Upon reasonable notice to Subtenant, the City shall have the right to enter the Premises at all reasonable times for the purpose of inspection, posting notices, or other lawful purposes. City agrees to act in good faith to minimize any disruption to Subtenant’s business during such visits.

14. REMOVAL OF PERSONAL PROPERTY; RESTORATION OF PROPERTY. Unless Subtenant and Property Owner mutually agree in writing upon an alternative arrangement, at the expiration or the earlier termination of this Sublease, Subtenant shall at its sole cost and expense remove all items of personal property placed in the Premises by Subtenant and shall clean the Premises such that the same is restored to at least as good as condition as it was at the time of commencement of this Sublease.

15. ASSIGNMENT AND SUBLETTING. Subtenant shall not encumber, assign, or otherwise transfer this Sublease, any right or interest in this Sublease, or any right or interest in the Premises or any improvements that may now or hereafter be constructed or installed on the Premises to any other person or entity, provided however, Subtenant will be allowed to freely assign this Sublease to an affiliate, purchaser, or successor by merger without obtaining the consent of City. In addition, Subtenant may sublease all or any part of the Premises to an affiliate or successor by merger without obtaining the consent of City. The Subtenant shall ensure that the terms and the conditions of this Sublease are incorporated into the terms and the conditions of any sublease or assignment, including the sublease from the Subtenant.

Docusign Envelope ID: E34D1A2F-E9BC-8046-832B-C17ED98C11D2 1123358
City of Salinas
Sublease Agreement—115, 119, and 125 East Lake Street—Victory Mission Page 4 of 9 June 2026

16. DEFAULT AND REENTRY. In the event of any breach of any obligation to be performed by Subtenant hereunder, including non-payment of rent, which is not cured within thirty (30) days of the date upon which notice of such breach is given to Subtenant, the City, in addition to any other rights or remedies as may be provided by law, shall have the right to terminate this Sublease, immediately reenter the Premises, without notice, and remove all persons and property from the Premises.

17. FORCE MAJEURE. If either party is unable to perform its duties under this Sublease due to acts of God, strikes, lockouts, labor disputes, inability to obtain labor, governmental restrictions, regulations or controls, civil commotion, fire or other casualty, emergency, or any other cause beyond the reasonable control of the party, such non-performing party shall be excused from performance by the other party, and shall not be in breach of this Sublease, for a period equal to any such prevention, delay or stoppage.

18. SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS. Except as otherwise provided for herein, the parties expressly agree that, subject to the terms of this Sublease, all terms and conditions of this Sublease shall extend to and be binding upon or inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors, administrators, personal representative, assigns and successors in interest of both the respective parties hereto.

19. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Sublease expresses the whole contract between the parties, there being no representations, warranties, or other understandings not here expressly set forth or provided. This Sublease may be executed in duplicate, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be deemed an original, but such duplicate together shall constitute but one and the same instrument.

20. AMENDMENTS. This Sublease may be amended at any time and from time to time, provided that no amendment to this Sublease shall be legally enforceable against the City or Subtenant unless it is in writing, executed and acknowledged by both parties.

21. NOTICES. All notices herein provided to be given, or which may be given, by either party to the other, shall be deemed to have been given fully, when made in writing and personally delivered as shown below, or deposited in the United States mail, certified, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, and addressed as follows:

City: City of Salinas Subtenant: Victory Mission
200 Lincoln Avenue Frank Green, III
Salinas, California 93901 Executive Director
Attn: Assistant City Manager 43 Soledad Street
Salinas, California 93901
w/copy to: City Attorney
200 Lincoln Avenue
Salinas, California 93901

22. WARRANTY OF RIGHT OF USE. The City warrants and represents that it has the sole and the exclusive right of occupation to the Premises such that it may enter into this Sublease. The City further warrants and represents that the execution, delivery, or performance of this Sublease will not conflict with or violate any other agreements by which the City is bound, or any law, rules, regulation, or ordinance by which the City is bound.

23. NON-DISCRIMINATION IN USE AND AVAILABILITY. Subtenant shall comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, policies, rules, and requirements related to equal opportunity and non-discrimination in the provision of any services or programs offered at the Premises.

24. AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT AND TITLE 24 COMPLIANCE. If required by law, Subtenant shall ensure and shall be responsible for ensuring that all building improvements and other improvements added by Subtenant to the Premises, if any, are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations and Subtenant shall be solely responsible for making any repairs or improvements necessary to bring such Subtenant improvements into compliance.

Docusign Envelope ID: E34D1A2F-E9BC-8046-832B-C17ED98C11D2 1124359
City of Salinas
Sublease Agreement—115, 119, and 125 East Lake Street—Victory Mission Page 5 of 9 June 2026

25. SIGNS AND ADVERTISING. Subtenant shall not place or erect any temporary or permanent signs or advertising upon the Premises which will cause damage or which will otherwise alter the physical structure of any structure or building located on the Premises. The placement or erection of any sign or advertising upon the Premises shall be in accordance with the requirements of the Salinas City Code, including the Salinas Zoning Code, in effect at the time such sign is proposed to be placed or erected. If applicable, Subtenant shall obtain a Sign Permit and, if appropriate, a Building Permit from the City’s Community Development Department prior to the placement or construction of any sign.

26. LIENS AND ENCUMBRANCES. Subtenant shall keep the Premises free and clear of any liens or encumbrances of any kind whatsoever created by Subtenant or any of its acts or omissions.

27. JURISDICTION. This Sublease shall be administered and interpreted under the laws of the State of California. Jurisdiction of litigation arising from this Sublease shall be in the State of California, in the County of Monterey, or in the appropriate federal court with jurisdiction over the matter. In case suit shall be brought to interpret or to enforce this Sublease, or because of the breach of any other covenant or provision herein contained, the prevailing party in such action shall be entitled to recover their reasonable attorney fees in addition to such costs as may be allowed by the court. City’s attorney fees, if awarded, shall be calculated at the market rate.

28. COUNTERPARTS. This Sublease may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute a single agreement.

29. FURTHER ASSURANCES. Both parties agree to take whatever action may be necessary to perform their respective and their mutual obligations under this Sublease.

30. RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS UNDER THIS SUBLEASE. By entering into this Sublease, the Parties do not intend to create any obligations express or implied other than those set out herein; further, this Sublease shall not create any rights in any party not a signatory hereto.

31. INVALIDITY. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provisions of this Sublease shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

32. SURVIVAL. In no way shall the insurance requirements herein limit Subtenant’s indemnification obligations hereunder, and Subtenant’s indemnification obligations shall survive termination of this Sublease.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned, as authorized representatives of the parties, have entered into this Sublease as of the date first written above.

CITY OF SALINAS VICTORY MISSION
_______________________________ _______________________________ René Mendez, City Manager Frank Green III, Executive Director APPROVED AS FORM:
_______________________________
Christopher A. Callihan, City Attorney
Docusign Envelope ID: E34D1A2F-E9BC-8046-832B-C17ED98C11D2 1125360
City of Salinas
Sublease Agreement—115, 119, and 125 East Lake Street—Victory Mission Page 6 of 9 June 2026

EXHIBIT A

LEGAL DESCRIPTION
Real property in the Oty of Salinas, County of Monterey, State of California, described as follows:

PARCEL ONE: (APN: 003-131-012)

BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH LINE OF LAKE STREET, FROM WHICH POINT THE

INTERSECTION OF THE NORTH LINE OF LAKE STREET WITH THE EAST UNE OF BRIDGE STREET BEARS S. 80° 13' WEST, 139.82 FEIT, AND RUNNING THENCE FROM SAID POINT OF BEGINNING, NORTH 9° 26½' WEST, 115.1FEET; THENCE NORTH 80° 13' EAST, 50 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE SOUTH 9° 26½' EAST, 115.1 FEET TO A POINT ON THE SAID NORTH LINE OF LAKE STREET; THENCE ALONG SAID LAST MENTIONED LINE; SOUTH 0° 13' WEST, 50 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING.

EXCEPTING THEREFROM THAT PORTION THEREOF CONVEYED IN DEED FROM KIKUO R. ENDO, ET

UX, TO HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF MONTEREY, A BODY POLITIC, DATED FEBRUARY 14, 1952, RECORDED APRIL 4, 1952, IN BOOK 1372 OF OFFIOAL RECORDS, AT PAGE 150, PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

A PORTION OF THAT CERTAIN 13.52 ACRE TRACT OF LAND CONVEYED BY DAVID JACKS TO E.P.

IVERSON BY DEED DATED FEBRUARY 28, 1891, RECORDED IN BOOK 31 OF DEEDS, AT PAGE 465, MONTEREY COUNTY RECORDS AND THAT PORTION OF SAID 13.52 ACRES TRACT OF LAND CONVEYED BY J. H. ANDERSON, ET Al, TO MARTIN IVERSON, ET UX, BY DEED DATED APRIL 1, 1921, RECORDED IN BOOK 180 OF DEEDS, AT PAGE 415, MONTEREY COUNTY RECORDS, PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

BEGINNING AT A POINT IN THE COMMON BOUNDARY BETWEEN THE SAID MARTIN IVERSON

TRACT AND THAT CERTAIN LOT CONVEYED BY MARTIN IVERSON TO HASAMI EZAKI BY DEED DATED APRIL 12, 1928, RECORDED IN BOOK 308 OF OFFICTAL RECORDS, AT PAGE 175, FROM

WHICH THE COMMON CORNER OF THE SAID MARTIN IVERSON AND NASAMI EZAKI LOT IN THE NORTHERLY UNE OF LAKE STREET BEARS S. 9° 10' 30" E., 75.01 FEET, WHICH CORNER BEARS ALONG THE SAID STREET LINE N. 80° 25' E., 139.92 FEET; THENCE FROM SAID PLACE OF BEGINNING, FOLLOWING THE ABOVE MENTIONED COMMON BOUNDARY. (1) N. 9° 10' 30" W., 40.09 FEET; THENCE LEAVING SAID BOUNDARY LINE (2) N. 80° 25' E., 50.0 FEET; THENCE
(3) S. 9° 10' 30" E., 40.09 FEET; THENCE
(4) S. 80° 25' W., 50.0 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING.

Docusign Envelope ID: E34D1A2F-E9BC-8046-832B-C17ED98C11D2 1126361
City of Salinas
Sublease Agreement—115, 119, and 125 East Lake Street—Victory Mission Page 7 of 9 June 2026
PARCEL TWO: (APN: 003-131-014)
BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTHERLY LINE OF LAKE STREET, DISTANT S. 80° 25' W., 275.99

FEET ALONG SAID LINE OF LAKE STREET FROM THE POINT OF INTERSECTION THEREOF WITH THE

WESTERLY LINE OF SHERWOOD STREET (NOW KNOWN AS CALIFORNIA STREET) AS SAID STREETS

ARE SHOWN ON THAT CERTAIN MONTEREY COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY MAP FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE RECORDER OF MONTEREY COUNTY, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, FILED APRIL 22, 1952, IN MAP BOOK FOUR OF SURVEYS, AT PAGE 96, SAID POINT OF BEGINNING BEING ALSO THE

SOUTHEASTERLY CORNER OF THAT CERTAIN PARCEL OF LAND CONVEYED IN THE DEED FROM KIKUO R. ENOO AND LILY MINAMI ENDO, HIS WIFE, TO LEON DE ASIS AND NORA DE ASIS, HIS WIFE, IN JOINT TENANCY, RECORDED JUNE 7,1955, IN BOOK 1622 OF OFFICIAL RECORDS, AT PAGE 288, AND RUNNING THENCE FROM SAID POINT OF BEGINNING N. 9° 35' W., 75.00 FEET TO THE NORTHEASTERLY CORNER OF SAID LAST MENTIONED PARCEL OF LAND; SAID POINT BEING ALSO IN THESOUTHERLY LINE OF THAT CERTAIN PARCEL (2) DESCRIBED IN THE DECREE QUIETING

TITLE ENTERED IN THE MATTER OF HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF MONTEREY, A BODY CORPORATE AND POLITIC, PLAINTIFF, VS. ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN, DATED AUGUST 19, 19S2, RECORDED AUGUST 19, 19S2 IN BOOK 1399 OF OFFICIAL RECORDS, AT PAGE 580, MONTEREY COUNTY RECORDS; THENCE ALONG SAID LAST MENTIONED LINE N. 80° 25' E., 50.00 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE LEAVE SAID LAST MENTIONED LINE AND RUNNJNG S. 9° 35' E., 75.00 FEET TO A POINT ON THE NORTHERLY LINE OF SAID LAKE STREET; THENCE ALONG SAID STREET LINE S. 80° 25' W., 50.00 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING.

PARCEL THREE: (APN: 003-131-016)
THAT CERTAIN 10,868 SQUARE FOOT PARCEL OF LAND SHOWN ON THE MAP ENTITLED "RECORD OF SURVEY OF A.P. 3-131-14 AND 15, RANCHO EL SAUSAL, CITY OF SALINAS, MONTEREY COUNTY, CALIFORNIA", ETC., FILED FOR RECORD FEBRUARY 28, 1963 IN VOLUME X-3 OF SURVEYS AT PAGE 50, MONTEREY COUNTY RECORDS.

EXCEPTING THEREFROM THAT CERTAIN PARCEL OF LAND DESCRIBED IN THE DEED FROM ANITA NERSON HEAD, ET AL, TO LEON DE ASIS ET UX, DATED JUNE 4, 1960 AND RECORDED JULY 12, 1960 IN BOOK 2069 AT PAGE 178, OFFICIAL RECORDS OF SAID MONTEREY COUNTY.

APN 003-131-012
Docusign Envelope ID: E34D1A2F-E9BC-8046-832B-C17ED98C11D2 1127362
City of Salinas
Sublease Agreement—115, 119, and 125 East Lake Street—Victory Mission Page 8 of 9 June 2026

EXHIBIT B

ACCEPTANCE OF THE SUBLEASED PREMISES
I __________________________(NAME), the _____________________ (POSITION OR TITLE), representing Victor Mission have inspected the offices and common grounds at 115, 119, an 125 East Lake Street, Salinas California, leased by the City of Salinas. I have determined that this building and property will be suitable for my business practices, and I hereby accept the Subleased Premises in “as-is, where-is” condition.

Signature: __________________________________ Date________________ Docusign Envelope ID: E34D1A2F-E9BC-8046-832B-C17ED98C11D2 1128363
City of Salinas
Sublease Agreement—115, 119, and 125 East Lake Street—Victory Mission Page 9 of 9 June 2026

EXHIBIT C

INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
Subtenant shall procure and maintain for the duration of the contract insurance against claims for injuries to persons or damages to property which may arise from or in connection with the performance of the work hereunder and the results of that work by the Subtenant, his agents, representatives, employees or subcontractors.

MINIMUM SCOPE AND LIMIT OF INSURANCE
Coverage shall be at least as broad as:

1. Commercial General Liability (CGL): Insurance Services Office Form CG 00 01 covering CGL on an “occurrence” basis, including products and completed operations, property damage, bodily injury and personal & advertising injury with limits no less than $2,000,000 per occurrence. If a general aggregate limit applies, either the general aggregate limit shall apply separately to this project/location (ISO CG 25 03 or 25 04) or the general aggregate limit shall be twice the required occurrence limit.

2. Workers’ Compensation: as required by the State of California, with Statutory Limits, and Employer’s Liability Insurance with limit of no less than $1,000,000 per accident for bodily injury or disease.

Other Insurance Provisions
The insurance policies are to contain, or be endorsed to contain, the following provisions:

Additional Insured Status
The City, its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers are to be covered as additional insureds on the CGL policy with respect to liability arising out of work or operations performed by or on behalf of the Subtenant including materials, parts, or equipment furnished in connection with such work or operations. General liability coverage can be provided in the form of an endorsement to the Subtenant’s insurance (at least as broad as ISO Form CG 20 10 11 85 or if not available, through the addition of both CG 20 10, CG 20 26, CG 20 33, or CG 20 38; and CG 20 37 if a later edition is used).

Notice of Cancellation
Each insurance policy required above shall provide that coverage shall not be canceled, except with notice to the City.

Waiver of Subrogation
Subtenant hereby grants to City a waiver of any right to subrogation which any insurer of said Subtenant may acquire against the Entity by virtue of the payment of any loss under such insurance. Subtenant agrees to obtain any endorsement that may be necessary to affect this waiver of subrogation, but this provision applies regardless of whether or not the Entity has received a waiver of subrogation endorsement from the insurer.

Verification of Coverage
Subtenantshall furnish the Entity with original certificates and amendatory endorsements or copies of the applicable policy language effecting coverage required by this clause. All certificates and endorsements are to be received and approved by the Entity before work commences. However, failure to obtain the required documents prior to the work beginning shall not waive the Subtenant’s obligation to provide them. The Entity reserves the right to require complete, certified copies of all required insurance policies, including endorsements required by these specifications, at any time.

Docusign Envelope ID: E34D1A2F-E9BC-8046-832B-C17ED98C11D2 1129364
City of Salinas
Legislation Text
200 Lincoln Ave., Salinas,
CA 93901
www.salinas.gov
File #: ID#26-281, Version: 1
Authorization to Submit FY 2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) regional application for SelfContained Breathing Apparatus (SCBAs) Approve a Resolution authorizing the Salinas Fire Department to submit or participate in a FY 2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Regional application for self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBAs) with Monterey County partner agencies.

City of Salinas Page 1 of 1 Printed on 6/13/2026
powered by Legistar™1130
Page | 1

CITY OF SALINAS

COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: JUNE 16, 2026
DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT
FROM: SAMUEL KLEMEK, FIRE CHIEF
TITLE: AUTHORIZATION TO SUBMIT FY 2025 ASSISTANCE TO
FIREFIGHTERS GRANT REGIONAL APPLICATION FOR SELFCONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS (SCBAs) RECOMMENDED MOTION:

A motion to approve a Resolution authorizing the Salinas Fire Department to submit or participate in a FY 2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Regional application for self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBAs) with Monterey County partner agencies.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

The Fire Department seeks authorization to submit or participate in a FEMA AFG Regional application with Monterey County partner agencies to replace self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Quotes are still being finalized; therefore, staff recommend authorization to apply up to the applicable AFG Regional maximum award, anticipated at up to $2,000,000 in federal funds for the combined service area, plus the required local match of 10%. SCBA replacement is a highcost, critical life-safety need and any excess cost over the grant award, in addition to the cost share, would need to be prioritized in the following budget cycle.

BACKGROUND:

The FY 2025 AFG Program supports equipment purchases that equip emergency personnel to recognized standards, improve firefighter safety, increase operational efficiency, foster interoperability, and strengthen community resilience. Regional applications are specifically intended to address common needs across multiple jurisdictions where a regional solution improves standardization and mutual aid operations. SCBA are essential respiratory protection devices used by firefighters during interior structure fires, hazardous materials incidents, vehicle fires, confined space emergencies, and other immediately dangerous to life and health environments. The department’s SCBA is expiring in two years, creating an urgent need for replacement to maintain compliance, firefighter safety, and operational readiness. Replacement costs are significant, making a regional grant application the most fiscally responsible path to address this critical equipment need. Without grant funding, the Department and its partners may be forced to defer or stagger replacements, increasing maintenance issues, incompatibility, firefighter safety risk, and operational disruptions when expired equipment must be removed from service.
1131
Page | 2
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:

No.

STRATEGIC PLAN INITIATIVE:

This action supports the City Council strategic goals of public safety.

DEPARTMENTAL COORDINATION:

The Fire Department will coordinate with the City Manager’s Office, Finance Department, City Attorney’s Office, and Purchasing staff as applicable.

FISCAL AND SUSTAINABILITY IMPACT:

Approval of the resolution authorizes submission of the grant application and identifies the anticipated local cost share or future fiscal obligation. If awarded, staff will return to the City Council as necessary to accept the award, request approval to appropriate revenues and expenditures, and authorize the required local match.

Example:

Fund General Ledger Number
(Operating/CIP)
General Ledger Account
Name
Remaining Budget
Appropriation
Amount Requested

NA NA NA NA NA
ATTACHMENTS:

Resolution
Notice of Funding Opportunity
1132
Page | 1
RESOLUTION NO.

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SUBMISSION OF OR PARTICIPATION IN A FISCAL YEAR 2025 ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTERS GRANT REGIONAL APPLICATION FOR SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS (SCBAs) WHEREAS, the Federal Emergency Management Agency administers the Fiscal Year 2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, including Regional Projects that allow multiple fire agencies to address shared equipment needs; and
WHEREAS, the Salinas Fire Department seeks to submit or participate in a regional application with Monterey County partner agencies to replace self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBAs), which are essential respiratory protection devices used during fires, hazardous materials incidents, rescues, and other immediately dangerous to life and health environments; and
WHEREAS, the Department's SCBA equipment is expiring in two years, replacement costs are significant, and regional grant funding would support firefighter safety, compliance, interoperability, and operational readiness; and
WHEREAS, quotes are still being finalized and the City seeks authorization to apply up to the applicable AFG Regional maximum award, anticipated at up to $2,000,000 in federal funds, plus the required 10% local cost share.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Salinas City Council authorizes the Fire Department to submit or participate in a Fiscal Year 2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Regional application for self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBAs).

PASSED AND APPROVED this 16th day of June, 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

APPROVED:
_______________________
Dennis Donohue, Mayor
1133
Page | 2
ATTEST:
_________________________
Patricia M. Soratos, City Clerk
1134
1 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
Fiscal Year 2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program Fraud, waste, abuse, mismanagement, and other criminal or noncriminal misconduct related to this program may be reported to the Office of Inspector General (OIG) Hotline. The toll-free numbers to call are 1 (800) 323-8603 and TTY 1 (844) 889-4357.

Contents

1. Basic Information .................................................................................................................... 3 A. Agency Name ............................................................................................................................. 4 B. NOFO Title ................................................................................................................................ 4 C. Announcement Type .................................................................................................................. 4 D. Funding Opportunity Number .................................................................................................... 4 E. Assistance Listing Number ........................................................................................................ 4 F. Expected Total Funding ............................................................................................................. 4 G. Anticipated Number of Awards ................................................................................................. 4 H. Expected Award Range ............................................................................................................. 4 I. Projected Application Start Date ................................................................................................. 4 J. Projected Application End Date .................................................................................................. 4 K. Anticipated Funding Selection Date .......................................................................................... 4 L. Anticipated Award Date ............................................................................................................. 4 M. Projected Period of Performance Start Date ............................................................................. 5 N. Projected Period of Performance End Date ............................................................................... 5 O. Executive Summary ................................................................................................................... 5 P. Agency Contact .......................................................................................................................... 5

2. Eligibility ................................................................................................................................. 6 A. Eligible Entities/Entity Types .................................................................................................... 6 B. Project Type Eligibility .............................................................................................................. 8 C. Requirements for Personnel, Partners, and Other Parties .......................................................... 8 D. Maximum Number of Applications ........................................................................................... 9 E. Additional Restrictions ............................................................................................................... 9 F. References for Eligibility Factors within the NOFO ................................................................ 10 G. Cost Sharing Requirement ....................................................................................................... 10 H. Cost Share Description, Type and Restrictions ....................................................................... 10 I. Cost Sharing Calculation Example............................................................................................ 11 J. Required information for verifying Cost Share ........................................................................ 11

3. Program Description ................................................................................................................. 11 A. Background, Program Purpose, and Program History .......................................................... 11 B. Goals and Objectives ............................................................................................................. 12 C. Program Rationale ................................................................................................................ 12 D. Federal Assistance Type ........................................................................................................ 13 E. Performance Measures and Targets ...................................................................................... 13 1135
2 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
F. General Funding Requirements............................................................................................. 13 G. Indirect Costs (Facilities and Administrative Costs)............................................................. 14 H. Management and Administration (M&A) Costs................................................................... 15 I. Pre-Award Costs.................................................................................................................... 15 J. Beneficiary Eligibility ........................................................................................................... 15 K. Participant Eligibility ............................................................................................................ 15 L. Authorizing Authority ........................................................................................................... 15 M. Appropriation Authority........................................................................................................ 15 N. Budget Period........................................................................................................................ 15 O. Prohibition on Covered Equipment or Services.................................................................... 16

4. Application Contents and Format ............................................................................................. 16 A. Pre-Application, Letter of Intent, and Whitepapers.............................................................. 16 B. Application Content and Format ........................................................................................... 16 C. Application Components....................................................................................................... 16 D. Program-Specific Required Documents and Information..................................................... 16 E. Post-Application Requirements for Successful Applicants................................................... 16

5. Submission Requirements and Deadlines................................................................................. 16 A. Address to Request Application Package.............................................................................. 17 B. Application Deadline............................................................................................................. 19 C. Pre-Application Requirements Deadline............................................................................... 19 D. Post-Application Requirements Deadline ............................................................................. 19 E. Effects of Missing the Deadline ............................................................................................ 19

6. Intergovernmental Review........................................................................................................ 19 A. Requirement Description and State Single Point of Contact ................................................ 19

7. Application Review Information .............................................................................................. 20 A. Threshold Criteria.................................................................................................................. 20 B. Application Criteria............................................................................................................... 20 C. Financial Integrity Criteria .................................................................................................... 22 D. Supplemental Financial Integrity Criteria and Review ......................................................... 22 E. Reviewers and Reviewer Selection ....................................................................................... 22 F. Merit Review Process............................................................................................................ 22 G. Final Selection....................................................................................................................... 24

8. Award Notices .......................................................................................................................... 24 A. Notice of Award .................................................................................................................... 24 B. Pass-Through Requirements.................................................................................................. 25 C. Note Regarding Pre-Award Costs......................................................................................... 25 D. Obligation of Funds............................................................................................................... 25 E. Notification to Unsuccessful Applicants............................................................................... 25

9. Post-Award Requirements and Administration ........................................................................ 25 A. Administrative and National Policy Requirements............................................................... 25 B. DHS Standard Terms and Conditions................................................................................... 26 C. Financial Reporting Requirements........................................................................................ 27 D. Programmatic Performance Reporting Requirements........................................................... 27 E. Closeout Reporting Requirements......................................................................................... 28 F. Disclosing Information per 2 C.F.R. § 180.335 .................................................................... 29 1136
3 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
G. Reporting of Matters Related to Recipient Integrity and Performance ................................. 29 H. Single Audit Report ............................................................................................................... 29 I. Monitoring and Oversight ..................................................................................................... 30 J. Program Evaluation ............................................................................................................... 30 K. Additional Performance Reporting Requirements ................................................................ 30 L. Termination of Federal Award .............................................................................................. 31 M. Best Practices ........................................................................................................................ 33 N. Payment Information ............................................................................................................. 33 O. Immigration Conditions ........................................................................................................ 35

10. Other Information ................................................................................................................... 35 A. Period of Performance Extension .......................................................................................... 35 B. Other Information .................................................................................................................. 36

11. Appendices .............................................................................................................................. 42 A. Appendix A – Changes .......................................................................................................... 42 B. Appendix B – Programmatic Information and Priorities ...................................................... 42 Supporting Definitions for this NOFO: ........................................................................................ 44 Community Classifications: .......................................................................................................... 45 Restrictions on Uses of Award Funds: .......................................................................................... 46 Funding Priorities: Operations and Safety – Training .................................................................. 47 Funding Priorities for Fire Departments and Nonaffiliated EMS Organizations Training .......... 50 Operations and Safety – Equipment Overview ............................................................................. 52 Operations and Safety – Wellness and Fitness Overview ............................................................ 64 Operations and Safety – Modifications to Facilities Overview .................................................... 66 Regional Applications Overview .................................................................................................. 68 Vehicle Acquisition Guidelines .................................................................................................... 70 C. Appendix C – Award Administration Information ............................................................... 76

1. Basic Information
1137
4 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
A. Agency Name U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Resilience/Grant Programs Directorate (GPD).

B. NOFO Title Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program
C. Announcement
Type
Initial
D. Funding
Opportunity Number
DHS-25-GPD-044-00-98
E. Assistance Listing
Number

97.044
F. Expected Total
Funding
$291,600,000
G. Anticipated
Number of Awards
1,800 awards
H. Expected Award
Range
N/A
I. Projected
Application Start
Date
05/19/2026 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time (ET)
J. Projected
Application End Date
06/22/2026 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET)
K. Anticipated
Funding Selection
Date
No later than 09/30/2026
L. Anticipated
Award Date
Beginning on approximately August 31, 2026, and continuing thereafter until all FY 2025 AFG Program grant awards are issued (but no later than September 30, 2026).
1138
5 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
M. Projected Period
of Performance Start
Date
Variable Start Date1
N. Projected Period
of Performance End
Date
Variable End Date
O. Executive
Summary
The AFG Program aims to deliver essential resources to equip and train emergency personnel to meet recognized standards. It provides funding to outfit responders with compliant personal protective equipment to enhance their safety during incident response, retrofit or modify facilities to address known health hazards, and acquire emergency response vehicles. Additionally, the program supports the development of health, wellness, and resiliency initiatives to prepare responders for incidents, improve operational efficiency, promote interoperability, and strengthen community resilience.

P. Agency Contact a. Fire Grants Program Office Contact The Fire Grants Program Help Desk provides technical assistance to applicants for completing and submitting applications into FEMA Grants Outcomes (FEMA GO), answers questions about applicant eligibility, recipient responsibilities, and provides support for the programmatic administration of awards. The Fire Grants Program Help Desk can be contact at (866) 274-0960 or by email
at [email protected]. Normal hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET.
b. FEMA Grants News
This channel provides general information on all FEMA grant programs and maintains a comprehensive database containing key personnel contact information at the federal, state, and local levels.

FEMA Grants News Team is reachable at fema-grants[email protected] OR (800) 368-6498, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET.
c. Grant Programs Directorate (GPD) Award Administration Division
GPD’s Award Administration Division (AAD) provides support regarding financial matters and budgetary technical assistance. AAD can be contacted at [email protected].
1 FEMA funds AFG Program awards on a rolling basis; as such, the date the FEMA Assistant Administrator for the Grant Programs Directorate signs the obligating document dictates the unique Period of Performance start and end dates for each award. 1139
6 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
d. FEMA Regional Offices
FEMA Regional Offices also may provide fiscal support, including pre- and post-award administration and technical assistance. FEMA Regional Office contact information is available at
https://www.fema.gov/fema-regional-contacts.
e. Civil Rights
Consistent with Executive Order 14173, Ending Illegal Discrimination & Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity, the FEMA Integration and Coordination Division (ICD) is responsible for ensuring compliance with and enforcement of federal civil rights obligations in connection with programs and services conducted by FEMA. They are reachable at [email protected].
f. Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation
The FEMA Office of Environmental Planning and Historic
Preservation (OEHP) provides guidance and information about the EHP review process to FEMA programs and recipients and
subrecipients. Send any inquiries regarding compliance for FEMA grant projects under this NOFO to FEMA-OEHP[email protected]. g. Payment and Reporting System
FEMA uses FEMA Grants Outcomes (FEMA GO) for financial
reporting, invoicing, and tracking payments. The Direct Deposit/Electronic Funds Transfer (DD/EFT) method of payment is used for recipients. For any questions about the system, contact the FEMA GO helpdesk at [email protected] or (877) 585-3242, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM ET.
h. FEMA GO
For technical assistance with the FEMA GO system, please contact the FEMA GO Helpdesk at [email protected] or (877) 585-3242, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM ET.

2. Eligibility
A. Eligible
Entities/Entity Types
Only the following entities or entity types are eligible to apply. a. Applicants
The following entities or entity types located in the 50 United States, District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or any federally recognized tribal government or organization are eligible to apply. If you are unsure of 1140
7 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
your entity, please see: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-44/part152#p-152.1(b). See Supporting Definitions for this NOFO:
• Fire Departments: Fire departments operating in any of the 50 states, as well as fire departments in the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the U.S.

Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth
of Puerto Rico,2 three or any federally recognized Indian tribe or tribal organization. A fire department is an agency or organization having a formally recognized arrangement with a state, local, tribal or territorial authority (city, county, parish, fire district, township, town or other governing body) to provide fire suppression to a population within a
geographically fixed primary first due response area.
• Nonaffiliated EMS organizations: Nonaffiliated EMS
organizations operating in any of the 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern
Mariana Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico,2
three or any
federally recognized tribal organization. A nonaffiliated EMS organization is an agency or organization that is a public or private nonprofit emergency medical service entity providing medical transport that is not affiliated with a hospital and does not serve a geographic area in which emergency medical
services are adequately provided by a fire department. FEMA considers the following as hospitals under the AFG Program:
• Clinics;
• Medical centers;
• Medical colleges or universities;
• Infirmaries;
• Surgery centers; and
• Any other institution, association, or foundation providing medical, surgical or psychiatric care and/or treatment for the sick or injured. State Fire Training Academies: A SFTA
operates in any of the 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
2 The District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico are all defined as “States” in the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974. See 15 U.S.C. § 2203(10).
1141
8 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Applicants must be
designated either by legislation or by a governor’s declaration as the sole fire service training agency within a state, territory, or the District of Columbia and recognized by the National Fire Academy. The designated SFTA shall be the only agency, bureau, division or entity within that state, territory, or the District of Columbia, to be an eligible SFTA applicant under the AFG Program.

Non-federal airport and/or port authority fire or EMS organizations are eligible only if they have a formally recognized arrangement with the local jurisdiction to provide fire suppression or emergency medical services on a first-due basis outside the confines of the airport or port facilities. Airport or port authority fire and EMS organizations whose sole responsibility is suppression of fires or EMS response on the airport grounds or port facilities are not eligible for funding under the AFG Program.
b. Subapplicants
Subapplicants and subawards are not allowed.

Subapplicants should not have foreign nationals or noncitizens included. If a subapplicant has foreign nationals, they must be properly vetted and must adhere to all government statutes, policies, and procedures including “staff American, stay in America” and security requirements.

B. Project Type
Eligibility
Allowable Project Types
• Operations and Safety;
• Vehicle Acquisition; and
• Regional Projects.

C. Requirements for
Personnel, Partners,
and Other Parties
An application submitted by an otherwise eligible non-federal entity (i.e. the applicant) may be deemed ineligible when the person that submitted the application is not 1) a current employee, personnel, official, staff or leadership of the non-federal entity; and 2) duly authorized to apply for an award on behalf of the non-federal entity at the time of application.

Further, the individual who signs and submits an application must be assigned the role of Authorized Organization Representative (AOR) within the FEMA GO system. The AOR must be a duly authorized 1142
9 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
current employee, personnel, official, staff or leadership of the recipient and provide an email address unique to the recipient at the time of application. Consultants or contractors of the recipient are not permitted to be the AOR of the recipient.

Federal employees are prohibited from serving in any capacity (paid or unpaid) on the development of any proposal submitted under this program.

Subapplicants should not have foreign nationals or noncitizens included. If a subapplicant has foreign nationals, they must be properly vetted and must adhere to all government statues, polices, and procedures including “staff American, stay in America” and security requirements.

Subapplicants/subrecipients must submit short bios and resumes.

This should include the type of entity, organizational leadership, and board members along with the both the names and addresses of the individuals. Resumes are subject to approval.

D. Maximum
Number of
Applications
The maximum number of applications that can be submitted by a single entity is three: one application for Operations and Safety, one application for Vehicle Acquisition, and one application as the host partner for a Regional Project.

E. Additional
Restrictions
a. National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) NERIS reporting is not required to apply for the AFG Program.

However, fire departments receiving funding must agree to report to NFIRS or NERIS during the performance period. If unable to report at the time of the award, recipients must establish reporting capacity within 24 months and report for at least 12 months once capable.

FEMA may request proof of compliance, and noncompliance during the performance period may result in remedies under 2 C.F.R. § 200.339. Nonaffiliated EMS organizations and SFTAs are exempt from NFIRS/NERIS reporting requirements.
b. National Incident Management System (NIMS)
AFG Program applicants are not required to comply with NIMS to apply for AFG Program funding or to receive an AFG Program award. However, any applicant who receives an FY 2025 AFG Program award must achieve the level of NIMS compliance required by the Authority having Jurisdiction (AHJ) over the applicant’s emergency service operations (e.g., a local government) prior to the end of the grant’s period of performance.
1143
10 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Applicants or recipients are required to certify their compliance with federal statutes, DHS directives, polices, and procedures c. Period of Performance (POP)
The POP for applications funded under the AFG will be 24 months.

F. References for
Eligibility Factors
within the NOFO
Please see the following references provided below:

1. “Responsiveness Review Criteria” subsection

2. “Financial Integrity Criteria” subsection

3. “Supplemental Financial Integrity Criteria and Review” subsection

4. FEMA may request financial information such as Employer Identification Number (EIN) and bank information as part of the potential award selection. This will apply to everyone prospered, including subrecipients.

5. Appendix B – Programmatic Information and Priorities G. Cost Sharing
Requirement
Applicants selected for this award must commit to an acceptable cost share agreement. Otherwise, they will not be funded. See Sections H and G for cost share requirements.

H. Cost Share
Description, Type
and Restrictions
Recipient cost sharing is required as described below pursuant to 15 U.S.C.§ 2229(k)(1). Recipients shall make available non-federal funds as described below:
• 5 percent for jurisdictions serving a population of 20,000 residents or fewer,
• 10 percent for jurisdictions serving a population of 20,000 up to 1 million residents,
• 15 percent for jurisdictions serving a population of over 1 million residents.
• For SFTAs, the cost share is based on the state's total population. For Regional applications, the cost share is based on the combined population of the primary response areas of the host and partner organizations outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding.

Types of Cost Share
i. Cash (Hard Match): Cost share of non-federal cash is the only allowable recipient contribution for AFG Program
activity (Vehicle Acquisition, Operations and Safety, and Regional).
ii. Trade-In Allowance/Credit: On a case-by-case basis, FEMA may allow recipients already owning assets acquired with nonfederal cash to use the trade-in allowance/credit value of those assets as cash for the purpose of meeting their cost share 1144
11 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
obligation. For FEMA to consider a trade-in allowance/credit value as cash, the allowance amount must be reasonable, and the allowance amount must be a separate entry clearly
identified in the acquisition documents.

In-kind (Soft Match): In-kind cost share is not allowable for the AFG Program.

I. Cost Sharing
Calculation Example
The cost share calculator is located
here: https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_gpdfy23-afg-cost-share-calculator.pdf Total Allowable Costs ÷ Percentage Cost Share = Federal Share to be requested
$10,000 ÷ 1.05 (5%) = $9,523.80
$10,000 ÷ 1.10 (10%) = $9,090.90
$10,000 ÷ 1.15 (15%) = $8,695.65
J. Required
information for
verifying Cost Share
Applicants must submit their plan for cost share within the Request Details (budget) section of the grant application.

Maintenance of Effort
Pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 2229(k)(3), an applicant seeking an AFG Program grant shall agree to maintain, during the term of the grant, the applicant’s aggregate expenditures relating to activities allowable under this NOFO, at not less than 80 percent of the average amount of such expenditures in the two fiscal years before the fiscal year an AFG Program grant is awarded.

In other words, an applicant agrees that if it receives a grant award, the applicant will keep its overall expenditures during the award’s period of performance for activities that could be allowable costs under this NOFO at a level that is at least 80 percent or more of the average of what the applicant spent on such costs for those activities in FY 2023 and 2024. This includes those funded with non-federal funding for activities that could be allowable costs under this NOFO.

Applicants must provide budget information for the year they are applying, as well as the two preceding years. For FY25, that would include the yearly budgets for 2025, 2024, and 2023.

3. Program Description
A. Background, Program Purpose, and Program History
1145
12 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
The AFG Program provides financial assistance directly to eligible fire departments, nonaffiliated emergency medical service (EMS) organizations, and State Fire Training Academies (SFTAs). The program aims to enhance the safety of firefighters and the public in relation to fire and fire-related hazards.

Since its inception, the AFG Program has awarded over $9 billion to help equip and train emergency personnel to recognized standards, improve operational efficiency, foster interoperability, and support community resilience. The program has provided fire apparatuses, personal protective equipment, facility modifications, wellness and fitness activities, and other fire equipment to more than 8,000 unique recipients.

For information about program success stories, visit FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants page: https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/firefighters/assistance-grants.

B. Goals and Objectives
Goal: Enhance the safety of the public and firefighters with respect to fire and fire-related hazards.

Objectives: Provide critically needed resources to:
• Equip and train emergency personnel to recognized standards, • Outfit responders with compliant personal protective equipment to increase responders’ physical protection against hazards during incident response, • Retrofit or modify facilities to protect personnel from known health hazards, • Acquire emergency response vehicles,
• Design and implement health, wellness, and resiliency programs that prepare responders for incident response,
• Enhance operational efficiencies, foster interoperability, and • Support community resilience.

C. Program Rationale
The AFG Program represents part of a comprehensive set of measures authorized by Congress and implemented by DHS. By increasing the number of trained firefighters, the AFG Program improves deployment capabilities to respond to emergencies and provide adequate protection from fire and fire-related hazards. The AFG Program also aims to support the following objectives:
• Coordinate Federal Response to Incidents
• Strengthen National Resilience
• Enhance Training and Readiness of First Responders
Through these objectives, FEMA creates a vision for the field of emergency management and sets an ambitious, yet achievable, path forward to unify and further professionalize emergency management across the country. We invite all our stakeholders and partners to join us in building a more prepared and resilient nation.
1146
13 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
D. Federal Assistance Type
Grant
E. Performance Measures and Targets
Grant recipients must collect data to allow FEMA to measure performance of AFG Program grants. These metrics align with the program’s objectives and priorities. FEMA may request information throughout the period of performance. At closeout recipients must submit a final performance report with enough information to show they met the performance goals outlined in their award.

FEMA will assess performance by comparing the number of items, supplies, projects, and activities requested in its application with the number acquired and delivered by the end of the performance period. The following program metrics will be used:
• Percentage of active-duty members equipped with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)-compliant personal protective equipment (PPE) for each department that received AFG Program funding. • Percentage of active-duty members who were equipped with NFPA and OSHA compliant equipment for each department that receives AFG Program funding. • Number of fire vehicles successfully replaced per industry standards at each department funded to replace fire vehicles.
• Percentage of new active-duty members achieving Firefighter Training Levels I and II within one year of coming into service at each department funded for training. • Percentage of the facility modifications required to comply with state, local, NFPA, or OSHA standards on housing and readiness posture that were successfully made for each department funded for facility modifications.
• Percentage of active-duty members meeting physical/mental readiness requirements through health programs at each department funded for wellness and fitness.

F. General Funding Requirements
Costs charged to federal awards (including federal and non-federal cost share funds) must comply with applicable statutes, rules and regulations, policies, this NOFO, and the terms and conditions of the federal award. This includes, among other requirements, that costs must be incurred, and products and services must be delivered within the budget period. 2 C.F.R. § 200.403(h).

Population of the jurisdiction served
by the recipient
Maximum award in FY
2025
Statutory waiver available
subject to extraordinary need?
100,000 or fewer No more than $1
million
None available
100,001 – 500,000 people No more than $2
million
None available
1147
14 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
500,001 – 1,000,000 people No more than $2.91
million
None available
1,000,001 – 2,500,000 people No more than $2.91
million
Yes, but no more than $6
million
More than 2,500,000 people No more than
$2.91million
Yes, but no more than $9
million
Regional applicants will be subject to the funding limitations based on the total population served by the host of the application and the participating partners. For example, if the host and partners serve a population of 100,000 or fewer and are the recipients of a Regional award for $1 million, then the host has met their cap and is no longer eligible for additional funds under the AFG Program.

Allocations and Restrictions of Available Grant Funds by Organization Type • Fire Departments: Not less than 25% of available grant funds shall be awarded to career, combination, or volunteer department types (total of 75%). • Nonaffiliated EMS Organizations: Not more than 2% of available grant funds shall be collectively awarded to all nonaffiliated EMS organization recipients. • Emergency Medical Services Providers: Not less than 3.5% of available grant funds shall fund emergency medical services provided by fire departments and nonaffiliated EMS organizations.
• State Fire Training Academy: Not more than 3% of available grant funds shall be collectively awarded to all SFTA recipients. Further, not more than $500,000 of available federal grant funds may be awarded per SFTA applicant.
• Vehicles: Not more than 25% of available grant funds may be used by recipients for the purchase of vehicles. Of that amount, based on stakeholder recommendations, FEMA intends to allocate 10% of the total vehicle funds for ambulances. • Micro Grants: The selection of the voluntary Micro Grant option (cumulative federal funding of $75,000) for eligible High Priority Operations and Safety activities does not impact an applicant’s request or participation under the Vehicle Acquisition or Regional projects. Applicants who select Micro Grants under Operations and Safety as a funding opportunity choice may still apply for a Vehicle Acquisition or Regional project. Of the 25% allocated to each of the career, combination, and volunteer departments, FEMA will aim to fund no less than 25% of the allocation for Micro Grants.

Recipients may not use federal funds or any cost share funds for the following activities:
• Matching or cost sharing requirements for other federal grants and cooperative agreements (see 2 C.F.R. § 200.306).
• Lobbying or other prohibited activities under 18 U.S.C. § 1913 or 2 C.F.R. § 200.450. • Prosecuting claims against the federal government or any other government entity (see 2 C.F.R. § 200.435).

G. Indirect Costs (Facilities and Administrative Costs) Indirect costs are NOT allowed.
1148
15 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
H. Management and Administration (M&A) Costs
M&A costs are allowed.

M&A costs are allowed by Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025, Pub.

L. No. 119-4. M&A activities are those directly related to the management and administration of the AFG award funds, such as financial management and monitoring.

M&A expenses should be based only on actual expenses or known contractual costs. Requests that are simple percentages of the award, without supporting justification or adequate documentation, will not be considered for an award.

M&A are not overhead/operational costs but are necessary direct costs incurred in support of the federal award or because of it, such as travel, meeting-related expenses, and salaries of full/parttime staff in direct support of the program. As such, M&A costs can be itemized in financial reports.

I. Pre-Award Costs
The following pre-award costs are allowable:

1. Fees for Grant Writers (capped at $1,500 of federal funds per application) The recipient must request approval from FEMA to incur such pre-award costs. Requests must be sent via email to [email protected] and include the application number and justification narrative. Please note, the recipient must seek approval at the time of acquisition and before the award is announced.

FEMA must provide written confirmation that the costs have been reviewed and determined the costs are justified, unavoidable, and consistent with the grant’s scope of work.

Pre-award costs must comply with 2 C.F.R. § 200.458, ensuring they are necessary for the efficient and timely performance of the grant.

J. Beneficiary Eligibility
There are no program requirements to be an eligible beneficiary. This NOFO and any subsequent federal awards create no rights or causes of action for any beneficiary.

K. Participant Eligibility
There are no program requirements to be an eligible participant. This NOFO and any subsequent federal awards create no rights or causes of action for any participant.

L. Authorizing Authority
Section 33 of The Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974, Pub. L. No. 93-498, as amended (15 U.S.C § 2229).

M. Appropriation Authority
Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025, Pub. L. No. 119-4 § 1101.

N. Budget Period
1149
16 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
There will be only a single budget period with the same start and end dates as the period of performance.

O. Prohibition on Covered Equipment or Services
Recipients, sub-recipients, and their contractors or subcontractors must comply with the prohibitions set forth in Section 889 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019, which restrict the purchase of covered telecommunications and surveillance equipment and services. Please see 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.216, 200.327, 200.471, and Appendix II to 2 C.F.R. Part 200, and FEMA Policy #405-143-1 - Prohibitions on Expending FEMA Award Funds for Covered Telecommunications Equipment or Services for more information.

4. Application Contents and Format
A. Pre-Application, Letter of Intent, and Whitepapers
Pre-applications, letters of intent, and whitepapers are not required nor encouraged to be eligible to apply.

B. Application Content and Format
Applications are processed through the FEMA GO system. To access the system, go to https://go.fema.gov/.

Applications must include information regarding department and program-specific priorities, details demonstrating department eligibility, and four narratives: Financial Need, Project Description, Cost/Benefit, and Statement of Effect. Each narrative section has a limit of 4,000 characters, including spaces.

C. Application Components
All applicable forms are in the FEMA GO system and filled out as part of the application submission process. The forms below do not require separate upload. The following forms will be filled out during the application process in FEMA GO:
• SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance
• Grants.gov Lobbying Form, Certification Regarding Lobbying • SF-424A, Budget Information (Non-Construction)
• SF-424B, Standard Assurances (Non-Construction)
• SF-LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities
D. Program-Specific Required Documents and Information
For program specific updates and information please see Appendices A, B, and C.

E. Post-Application Requirements for Successful Applicants Applicants likely to be funded may receive a request for additional information by email prior to award. Applicants must respond to the request to move forward with the grant review process.

5. Submission Requirements and Deadlines
1150
17 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
A. Address to Request Application Package
Applications are processed through the FEMA GO system. To access the system, go to https://go.fema.gov/.

Steps Required to Apply for an Award Under This Program and Submit an Application:

To apply for an award under this program, all applicants must:
a. Apply for, update, or verify their Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number and Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service; b. In the application, provide an UEI number;
c. Have an account with login.gov;
d. Register for, update, or verify their System for Award Management (SAM) account and ensure the account is active before submitting the application; e. Register in FEMA GO, add the organization to the system, and establish the Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR). The organization’s electronic business point of contact (eBiz POC) from the SAM registration may need to be involved in this step. For step-by-step instructions, see https://www.fema.gov/medialibrary/assets/documents/181607; f. Submit the complete application in FEMA GO; and
g. Continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active federal award or an application or plan under consideration by a federal awarding agency. As part of this, applicants must also provide information on an applicant’s immediate and highest-level owner and subsidiaries, as well as on all predecessors that have been awarded federal contracts or federal financial assistance within the last three years, if applicable.

Per 2 C.F.R. § 25.110(a)(2)(iv), if an applicant is experiencing exigent circumstances that prevents it from obtaining an UEI number and completing SAM registration prior to receiving a federal award, the applicant must notify FEMA as soon as possible. Contact fema-grants[email protected] and provide the details of the exigent circumstances.

How to Register to Apply:

General Instructions:

Registering and applying for an award under this program is a multi-step process and requires time to complete. Below are instructions for registering to apply for FEMA funds. Read the instructions carefully and prepare the requested information before beginning the registration process. Gathering the required information before starting the process will alleviate last-minute searches for required information.
1151
18 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
The registration process can take up to four weeks to complete. To ensure an application meets the deadline, applicants are advised to start the required steps well in advance of their submission.

Organizations must have a UEI number, EIN, and an active SAM registration.

Obtain a UEI Number:

All entities applying for funding, including renewal funding, must have a UEI number.

Applicants must enter the UEI number in the applicable data entry field on the SF-424 form. For more detailed instructions for obtaining a UEI number, refer to SAM.gov.

Obtain Employer Identification Number:

In addition to having a UEI number, all entities applying for funding must provide an EIN. The EIN can be obtained from the IRS by visiting https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businessesself-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online.

Create a login.gov account:

Applicants must have a login.gov account in order to register with SAM or update their SAM registration. Applicants can create a login.gov account at:
https://secure.login.gov/sign_up/enter_email?request_id=34f19fa8-14a2-438c-8323- a62b99571fd.

Applicants only have to create a login.gov account once. For existing SAM users, use the same email address for both login.gov and SAM.gov so that the two accounts can be linked.

For more information on the login.gov requirements for SAM registration, refer to https://www.sam.gov/SAM/pages/public/loginFAQ.jsf.

Register with SAM:

In addition to having a UEI number, all organizations must register with SAM. Failure to register with SAM will prevent your organization from applying through FEMA GO. SAM registration must be renewed annually and must remain active throughout the entire grant life cycle.

For more detailed instructions for registering with SAM, refer to: Register with SAM Note: per 2 C.F.R. § 25.200 , applicants must also provide the applicant’s immediate and highest-level owner, subsidiaries, and predecessors that have been awarded federal contracts or federal financial assistance within the past three years, if applicable.

Register in FEMA GO, Add the Organization to the System, and Establish the AOR:

Applicants must register in FEMA GO and add their organization to the system. The organization’s electronic business point of contact (eBiz POC) from the SAM registration may need to be involved in this step. For step-by-step instructions, see: FEMA GO Startup Guide Note: FEMA GO will support only the most recent major release of the following browsers:
1152
19 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Google Chrome;
• Mozilla Firefox;
• Apple Safari; and
• Microsoft Edge.

Applicants using tablet type devices or other browsers may encounter issues with using FEMA GO.

Submitting the Final Application:

Applicants will be prompted to submit the standard application information, and any programspecific information required. Standard Forms (SF) may be accessed in the Forms tab under the:

SF-424 Family | Grants.gov.

Applicants should review these forms before applying to ensure they are providing all required information.

After submitting the final application, FEMA GO will provide either an error message, or an email to the submitting AOR confirming the transmission was successfully received.

B. Application Deadline
06/22/2026 05:00 PM Eastern Time
C. Pre-Application Requirements Deadline
Not applicable
D. Post-Application Requirements Deadline
Not applicable
E. Effects of Missing the Deadline
All applications must be completed in FEMA GO by the application deadline. FEMA GO automatically records proof of submission and generates an electronic date/time stamp when FEMA GO successfully receives an application. The submitting AOR will receive via email the official date/time stamp and a FEMA GO tracking number to serve as proof of timely submission prior to the application deadline.

Applicants experiencing system-related issues have until 3:00 PM ET on the date applications are due to notify FEMA. No new system-related issues will be addressed after this deadline. Applications not received by the application submission deadline will not be accepted.

6. Intergovernmental Review
A. Requirement Description and State Single Point of Contact An intergovernmental review may be required. Applicants must contact their state’s Single Point of Contact (SPOC) to comply with the state’s process under Executive Order 12372. 1153
20 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO

7. Application Review Information
A. Threshold Criteria
Automatic disqualification of the application will occur if any of the conditions and instructions are not followed in Appendix B of this Notice of Funding Opportunity.

Examples of ineligible applications and/or organizations include:
• Nonaffiliated EMS organization requests for any activity that is specific or unique to structural/proximity/wildfire firefighting gear.
• Fire departments that are a federal government entity, or contracted by the federal government, and are solely responsible under a formally recognized agreement for suppression of fires on federal installations or land.
• Fire departments or nonaffiliated EMS organizations that are not independent entities but are part of, controlled by, or under the day-to-day operational command and control of a larger department, agency or AHJ.
• However, if a fire department is considered to be the same legal entity as a municipality or other governmental organization, and otherwise meets the eligibility criteria, that municipality or other governmental organization may apply on behalf of that fire department as long as the application clearly states that the fire department is considered part of the same legal entity.
• Fire-based EMS organization applying as a nonaffiliated EMS organization. • Auxiliaries, hospitals, or fire service associations or interest organizations that are not the AHJ over the applicant.
• Dive teams, search and rescue squads, or similar organizations that do not provide medical transport.
• Fire departments, regional, or nonaffiliated EMS organizations that are for profit. • State or local agencies, or subsets of any governmental entity, or any authority that do not meet the requirements as defined by 15 U.S.C. §2229 (a), (c). • Submitting multiple applications for the same equipment or activity (e.g., self-contained breathing apparatus [SCBA] under both Regional and Operations and Safety activities, or two applications for the same vehicle) may result in disqualification of both applications.

This rule does not apply if an applicant is applying on behalf of multiple agencies (e.g., fire departments within the same county or city). In such cases, the applicant can request similar equipment, as long as the application clearly specifies the equipment and quantities for each agency. Multiple applications across regional and direct categories are allowed in this scenario.
.

B. Application Criteria
FEMA sets funding priorities and evaluation criteria for AFG Program applications based on recommendations from the Criteria Development Panel (CDP). Each year, FEMA brings together a panel of fire service professionals to establish these priorities and criteria. The panel provides input on funding priorities and helps develop the criteria used to award grants.

The nine major fire service organizations represented on the panel are:
• International Association of Fire Chiefs
1154
21 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• International Association of Fire Fighters
• National Volunteer Fire Council
• National Fire Protection Association
• National Association of State Fire Marshals
• International Association of Arson Investigators
• International Society of Fire Service Instructors
• North American Fire Training Directors
• Congressional Fire Service Institute
CDP and Application Evaluation
CDP advises FEMA on creating or updating funding priorities and developing criteria for awarding grants. This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) reflects the CDP’s recommendations regarding priorities, direction, and award criteria.

FEMA ranks all complete applications based on how well they align with the program priorities for the specific activity. Responses to the activity-specific questions in the application are used to determine each application’s ranking relative to these priorities.

AFG Program applications go through a multi-phase review process:
1) Electronic Pre-Scoring
2) Peer Review
3) FEMA Internal Review

1. Electronic Pre-Scoring
The application undergoes an electronic pre-scoring process based on established program priorities listed in Appendix B and answers to activity-specific questions within the online application. Application Narratives are not reviewed during the pre- score process. “Request Details” and “Budget” information should comply with program guidance and statutory funding limitations. The pre-score is half of the total application score.

2. Peer Review
Applications with the highest rankings from the pre-scoring process will undergo a Peer Review Panel process. A panel of peer reviewers is composed of fire service personnel recommended by national fire organizations. Peer reviewers will assess each application’s merits based on the narrative statement on the requested activity. The evaluation elements listed in the “Narrative Evaluation Criteria” below will be used to calculate the narrative’s score for each activity requested. Peer reviewers will independently score each requested activity within the application, discuss the merits and/or shortcomings of the application with his or her peers, and document the findings. A consensus is not required. The panel score is half of the total application score. Peer reviewers will evaluate and select a score of Strongly Agree, Agree, Neither Agree nor Disagree, Disagree, or Strongly Disagree for each narrative section based on the following narrative elements within each activity.

3. FEMA Internal Review
1155
22 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Applications within the fundable range undergo a Technical Review by subject-matter experts and a FEMA Program Office review. The FEMA Program Office evaluates costs, quantities, feasibility, eligibility, and recipient responsibility before recommending awards. During TEP, Appendix B is used to address eligibility corrections, though this phase is not scored. Partial funding may be recommended based on assessment findings.

C. Financial Integrity Criteria
Before making an award, FEMA is required to review OMB-designated databases for applicants’ eligibility and financial integrity information. This is required by the Payment Integrity Information Act of 2019 (Pub. L. No. 116-117, § 2 (2020)), 41 U.S.C. § 2313, and the “Do Not Pay Initiative” (31 U.S.C. 3354). For more details, please see 2 C.F.R. § 200.206.

Thus, the Financial Integrity Criteria may include the following risk-based considerations of the applicant:

1. Financial stability.

2. Quality of management systems and ability to meet management standards.

3. History of performance in managing federal award.

4. Reports and findings from audits.

5. Ability to effectively implement statutory, regulatory, or other requirements.

D. Supplemental Financial Integrity Criteria and Review Before making an award expected to exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, defined at 41 U.S.C. § 134, over the period of performance:

1. FEMA is required by 41 U.S.C. § 2313 to review or consider certain information found in SAM.gov. For details, please see 2 C.F.R. § 200.206(a)(2).

2. An applicant may review and comment on any information in the responsibility/qualification records available in SAM.gov.

3. Before making decisions in the risk review required by 2 C.F.R. § 200.206, FEMA will consider any comments by the applicant.

E. Reviewers and Reviewer Selection
All applications will be evaluated through the Peer Review Panel process. A panel of peer reviewers is comprised of fire service representatives recommended by the CDP.

F. Merit Review Process
Applications with the highest rankings from the pre-scoring process will undergo a Peer Review Panel process.

Narrative Evaluation Criteria
Narrative Statements are a key part of the application process and must provide clear, detailed, and specific information about the proposed activities for which funding is requested. Applicants 1156
23 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
must explain how the proposed activities align with the Operations and Safety Activity or the Vehicle Acquisition Activity.

FEMA reviews applications for duplication, including narratives and statistical data. All elements of the Narrative Statements must be original, and all statistical data must be accurate.

Applications with narratives that include substantial copying of sentences or paragraphs or inaccurate data that could mislead reviewers may be disqualified. Falsification, fabrication, or plagiarism of other grant proposals will result in disqualification.

Peer review panelists will evaluate and score each project based on the narrative elements defined below. Each narrative section is limited to 4,000 characters, including spaces and punctuation
Financial Need
This section accounts for 25% of an application’s peer review score. It allows 4,000 characters (including spaces and punctuation).

Applicants must explain their financial need, detailing budget constraints, failed attempts to secure other funding, and showing that the financial distress is beyond their control, in line with the AFG Program's intent.

Project Description and Budget
This section accounts for 25% of an application’s peer review score. It allows 4,000 characters (including spaces and punctuation).

The Project Description and Budget statement should explain the project objectives, their connection to the budget, and risk analysis. Applicants should describe activities, align them with project objectives, their mission, and relevant requirements, and link expenses to operations, safety, and project goals.

Cost Benefit
This section accounts for 25% of an application’s peer review score. It allows 4,000 characters (including spaces and punctuation).

Applicants should explain how they will address operational and personnel safety needs, focusing on cost effectiveness and asset sharing. The statement should detail how grant funding will maximize benefits, including reasonable costs like overhead and administrative expenses.

Requests should align with the applicant's mission and show how funding will benefit their organization and personnel.

Statement of Effect on Operations
This section accounts for 25% of an application’s peer review score. It allows 4,000 characters (including spaces and punctuation).
1157
24 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
The Statement of Effect on Operations should explain how the funding will improve the organization’s effectiveness, daily operations, and risk reduction. Applicants should detail how often and in what capacity the requested items will be used, their benefits to the community, and how they enhance the ability to save lives and property. Jurisdictions emphasizing fire risk reduction through code enforcement and mitigation strategies, including FEMA-approved plans, may receive higher consideration.

G. Final Selection
Technical Evaluation Process (TEP)
The highest scoring project(s) for both activities will be considered within the fundable range.

Projects that are in the fundable range will undergo a Technical Review by the FEMA Program Office before being recommended for award. The FEMA Program Office will assess the request with respect to costs, quantities, feasibility, eligibility, and recipient responsibility prior to recommending any application for award. Additionally, FEMA will review whether the project duplicates other federally funded research or prevention activities. Once the TEP is complete, a final ranking of projects will be created. FEMA will award grants based on this final ranking and the ability to meet statutorily required funding limitations outlined in Appendix B - Programmatic Information and Priorities of this NOFO.

FEMA may not make a federal award until the applicant has complied with all applicable SAM requirements. Therefore, an applicant’s SAM registration must be active not only at the time of application, but also during the application review period and when FEMA is ready to make a federal award. Further, as noted above, an applicant’s or recipient’s SAM registration must remain active for the duration of an active federal award. If an applicant’s SAM registration is expired at the time of application, expires during application review, or expires any other time before award, FEMA may determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive a federal award and use that determination as a basis for making a federal award to another applicant. Requests may be recommended for partial funding based on findings made during this assessment.

In awarding grants, the FEMA Administrator is required to consider:
• The findings and recommendations of the Technical Evaluation Panel (TEP); • The degree to which an award will reduce deaths, injuries and property damage by reducing the risks associated with fire related and other hazards; • The extent of an applicant’s need for an AFG Program grant and the need to protect the United States as a whole; and
• The number of calls requesting or requiring a firefighting or emergency medical response received by an applicant.

8. Award Notices
A. Notice of Award
The Authorized Organization Representative (AOR) must carefully review the federal award package before accepting the award. The package includes instructions for administering the award as well as the terms and conditions.
1158
25 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
By submitting an application, applicants agree to comply with the requirements outlined in this NOFO and adhere to the terms and conditions of the federal award if selected.

FEMA will provide the federal award package electronically via FEMA GO. The package includes an Award Letter, Summary Award Memo, Agreement Articles, and Obligating Document. A notification email with the award package will be sent to the submitting AOR through the grant application system.

Recipients must accept their awards no later than 30 days from the award date. Recipients shall notify FEMA of their intent to accept the award and proceed with work via the FEMA GO system.

Funds will remain on hold until the recipient accepts the award in FEMA GO and satisfies all other award conditions, or until the award is rescinded. Failure to accept the grant award within the specified timeframe may result in a loss of funds.

During the review process, FEMA may have modified the application request(s). Any modifications will be detailed in the award package provided with the offer of an award. If the awarded activities, scope of work, or funding amounts differ from the original application, the recipient is only responsible for completing the activities funded by FEMA. The recipient is not obligated to start, modify, or complete any activities that were requested but not funded. The award package will outline any changes in the approved scope of work section.

B. Pass-Through Requirements
None
C. Note Regarding Pre-Award Costs
Even if pre-award costs are allowed, beginning performance is at the applicant’s risk.

D. Obligation of Funds
The grant funds are obligated in accordance with applicable laws, and no later than upon award.

E. Notification to Unsuccessful Applicants
FEMA will provide all applicants who do not receive a FY 2025 AFG Program award with a turndown notification after September 30, 2026.

9. Post-Award Requirements and Administration
A. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
Presidential Executive Orders
Recipients must comply with the requirements of Presidential Executive Orders related to grants (also known as federal assistance and financial assistance), the full text of which are incorporated by reference. Pursuant to the preliminary injunction order issued on November 21, 2025, in County of Santa Clara et al. v. Noem, et al., No. 25-cv-08330-WHO (N.D. Cal.), this requirement does not apply to awards or subawards issued to any of the plaintiffs subject to the preliminary injunction order while the order remains in effect. If the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, this requirement will immediately become effective. Also, 1159
26 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
pursuant to the preliminary injunction order issued on November 21, 2025, in City of Chicago et al. v. Noem, et al., No. 25-CV-12765 (N.D. Ill.), this requirement does not apply to awards or subawards issued to any of the plaintiffs subject to the preliminary injunction order while the order remains in effect. If the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, this requirement will immediately become effective.

In accordance with Executive Order 14305, Restoring American Airspace Sovereignty (June 6, 2025), and to the extent allowed by law, eligible state, local, tribal, and territorial grant recipients under this NOFO are permitted to purchase unmanned aircraft systems, otherwise known as drones, or equipment or services for the detection, tracking, or identification of drones and drone signals, consistent with the legal authorities of state, local, tribal, and territorial agencies.

Recipients must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, and adhere to any statutory requirements on the use of federal funds for such unmanned aircraft systems, equipment, or services.

B. DHS Standard Terms and Conditions
A recipient under this funding opportunity must comply with the DHS Standard Terms and Conditions in effect as of the date of the federal award, unless a term and condition specifically indicates otherwise. The DHS Standard Terms and Conditions are available online: DHS Standard Terms and Conditions | Homeland Security. For continuation awards, the terms and conditions for the initial federal award will apply unless otherwise specified in the terms and conditions of the continuation award. The specific version of the DHS Standard Terms and Conditions applicable to the federal award will be in the federal award package.

A recipient under this funding opportunity must comply with the FY 2026 Department of Homeland Security Standard Terms and Conditions, with the following exceptions. The term titled “Communication and Cooperation with the Department of Homeland Security and Immigration Officials” and paragraph (2)(a)(ii) of the term titled “Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act” do not apply to any federal award under this funding opportunity.

Pursuant to the preliminary injunction order issued on November 21, 2025, in County of Santa Clara et al. v. Noem, et al., No. 25-cv-08330-WHO (N.D. Cal.), the following terms and conditions do not apply to awards or subawards issued to any of the plaintiffs subject to the preliminary injunction order while the order remains in effect: (1) The DHS Standard Term and Condition titled " Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act "; and (2) the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled "All Executive Orders Related to Grants". If the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, both terms will immediately become effective. As stated above, Paragraph (2)(a)(ii) of the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled “Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act” will not apply even if the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished.

Pursuant to the preliminary injunction order issued on November 21, 2025, in City of Chicago et al. v. Noem, et al., No. 25-CV-12765 (N.D. Ill.), the following terms and conditions do not apply to awards or subawards issued to any of the plaintiffs subject to the preliminary injunction order while the order remains in effect: (1) the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled " Federal 1160
27 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act"; and (2) the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled " All Executive Orders Related to Grants". If the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, both terms will immediately become effective. As stated above, paragraph (2)(a)(ii) of the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled “Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act” will not apply even if the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished.

Pursuant to the preliminary injunction order issued on October 31, 2025, in City of Seattle v.

Trump, et al., No. 2:25-cv-01435-BJR (W.D. Wa.), the following terms and conditions do not apply to awards or subawards issued to any of the plaintiffs subject to the preliminary injunction order while the order remains in effect: the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled " Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act ". If the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, the term will immediately become effective. As stated above, Paragraph (2)(a)(ii) of the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled “Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act” will not apply even if the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished.

C. Financial Reporting Requirements
Recipients must report obligations and expenditures through a federal financial report. The Federal Financial Report (FFR) form, also known as Standard Form 425 (SF-425), is available online at: SF-425 OMB #4040-0014. A tutorial is available here under https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/FEMA_GO_SF425_and_PPR_User_Guide_508.pdf Recipients must submit the FFR semi-annually throughout the Period of Performance (POP) as detailed below:

A. No later than July 30 (for the period Jan. 1 – June 30) B. No later than January 30 (for the period July 1 – Dec. 31) C. Within 120 days after the end of the Period of Performance The final FFR is due within 120 days after the end of the POP.

FEMA may withhold future federal awards and cash payments if the recipient does not submit timely financial reports, or the financial reports submitted demonstrate lack of progress or provide insufficient detail.

D. Programmatic Performance Reporting Requirements

1. A Performance Report must be submitted semi-annually throughout the POP. A tutorial is available
here: https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/FEMA_GO_SF425_and_PPR_User_Guide_508.pdf

2. A Performance Report must include:
a. A brief narrative of overall project(s) status indicating progress toward project objectives;
1161
28 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
b. A summary of project expenditures;
c. A summary of any products from research activities;
d. A description of any potential issues that may affect project completion; and e. Other information specific to the Activities awarded.

3. The Performance Report must be submitted through FEMA GO.

4. Performance Report Due Dates
a. No later than July 30 (for the period Jan. 1 – June 30)

5. No later than January 30 (for the period July 1 – Dec. 31)] E. Closeout Reporting Requirements
Within 120 days after the end of the period of performance, or after an amendment has been issued to close out a federal award, recipients must submit the following:
• The final request for payment, if applicable.
• The final FFR.
• The final progress report detailing all accomplishments. • A qualitative narrative summary of the impact of those accomplishments throughout the period of performance.
• Other documents required by this NOFO, terms and conditions of the federal award, or other DHS Component guidance.

After FEMA approves these reports, it will issue a closeout notice. The notice will indicate the period of performance as closed, list any remaining funds to be de-obligated, and address the record maintenance requirement. Unless a longer period applies, such as due to an audit or litigation, for equipment or real property used beyond the period of performance, or due to other circumstances outlined in 2 C.F.R. § 200.334, this maintenance requirement is three years from the date of the final FFR.

Also, pass-through entities are responsible for closing out those subawards as described in 2 C.F.R. § 200.344; subrecipients are still required to submit closeout materials within 90 calendar days of the subaward period of performance end date. When a subrecipient completes all closeout requirements, pass-through entities must promptly complete all closeout actions in time for the recipient to submit all necessary documentation and information to FEMA during the closeout of their prime award. The recipient is responsible for returning any balances of unobligated or unliquidated funds that have been drawn down that are not authorized to be retained per 2 C.F.R. § 200.344(e).

A closeout tutorial is available here
https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_afg-closout-tutorial.pdf Administrative Closeout
Administrative closeout is a mechanism for FEMA to unilaterally execute closeout of an award if no activity is taken during the period of performance (submitting of reports, financial drawdowns). FEMA will use available award information in lieu of final recipient reports, per 2 1162
29 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
C.F.R. § 200.344(h)-(i). It is an activity of last resort, and if FEMA administratively closes an award, this may negatively impact a recipient’s ability to obtain future funding.

Additional Reporting Requirements
Anytime there is a chance in personnel for any of the awardees and/or subrecipients, their information needs to be submitted for approval (all the previous personal information identified).

F. Disclosing Information per 2 C.F.R. § 180.335
Before entering into a federal award, the applicant must notify FEMA if it knows that the applicant or any of the principals (as defined at 2 C.F.R. § 180.995) for the federal award:

1. Are presently excluded or disqualified;

2. Have been convicted within the preceding three years of any of the offenses listed in § 180.800(a) or had a civil judgment rendered against you for one of those offenses within that time period;

3. Are presently indicted for or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a governmental entity (Federal, State, or local) with the commission of any of the offenses listed in § 180.800(a); or

4. Have had one or more public transactions (Federal, State, or local) terminated within the preceding three years for cause or default.

This is requirement is fully described in 2 C.F.R. §180.335.

Additionally, 2 C.F.R. § 180.350 requires recipients to provide immediate notice to FEMA at any time after entering a federal award if:

1. The recipient learns that either it failed to earlier disclose information as required by 2 C.F.R. § 180.335;

2. Due to changed circumstances, the applicant or any of the principals for the federal award now meet the criteria at 2 C.F.R. § 180.335 listed above.

G. Reporting of Matters Related to Recipient Integrity and Performance Appendix XII to 2 C.F.R. Part 200 states the terms and conditions for recipient integrity and performance matters used for this funding opportunity.

If the total value of all active federal grants, cooperative agreements, and procurement contracts for a recipient exceeds $10,000,000 at any time during the period of performance:

1. The recipient must maintain the currency of information reported in SAM.gov about civil, criminal, or administrative proceedings described in paragraph 2 of Appendix XII;

2. The required reporting frequency is described in paragraph 4 of Appendix XII.

H. Single Audit Report
Any non-Federal entity that must be audited (as defined by 2 C.F.R. § 200.1) during its fiscal year must undergo an audit. This may be either a single audit complying with 2 C.F.R. § 200.514 or a program-specific audit complying with 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.501 and 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.507. 1163
30 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Audits must follow 2 C.F.R. Part 200, Subpart F, 2 C.F.R. § 200.501, and the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards.

I. Monitoring and Oversight
Per 2 C.F.R. § 200.337, DHS and its authorized representatives have the right of access to any records of the recipient or subrecipient pertinent to a Federal award to perform audits, site visits, and any other official use. The right also includes timely and reasonable access to the recipient’s or subrecipient’s personnel for the purpose of interview and discussion related to such documents or the Federal award in general.

Pursuant to this right and per 2 C.F.R. § 200.329, DHS may conduct desk reviews and make site visits to review and evaluate project accomplishments and management control systems as well as provide any required technical assistance. Recipients and subrecipients must respond in a timely and accurate manner to DHS requests for information relating to a federal award.

J. Program Evaluation
Title I of the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act of 2018, Pub. L. No. 115-435 (2019) (Evidence Act), PUBL435.PS urges federal agencies to use program evaluation as a critical tool to learn, improve delivery, and elevate program service and delivery across the program lifecycle. Evaluation means “an assessment using systematic data collection and analysis of one or more programs, policies, and organizations intended to assess their effectiveness and efficiency.” Evidence Act, § 101 (codified at 5 U.S.C. § 311). OMB A-11, Section 290 (Evaluation and Evidence-Building Activities) further outlines the standards and practices for evaluation activities. Federal agencies are required to specify any requirements for recipient participation in program evaluation activities (2 C.F.R. § 200.301). Program evaluation activities incorporated from the outset in the NOFO and program design and implementation allow recipients and agencies to meaningfully document and measure progress and achievement towards program goals and objectives, and identify program outcomes and lessons learned, as part of demonstrating recipient performance (2 C.F.R. § 200.301).

As such, recipients and subrecipients are required to participate in a Program Office (PO) or a DHS Component-led evaluation, if selected. This may be carried out by a third-party on behalf of the PO or the DHS Component. Such an evaluation may involve information collections including but not limited to, records of the recipients; surveys, interviews, or discussions with individuals who benefit from the federal award, program operating personnel, and award recipients; and site visits or other observation of recipient activities, as specified in a DHS Component or PO-approved evaluation plan. More details about evaluation requirements may be provided in the federal award, if available at that time, or following the award as evaluation requirements are finalized. Evaluation costs incurred during the period of performance are allowable costs (either as direct or indirect) in accordance with 2 C.F.R. § 200.413.

Recipients and subrecipients are also encouraged, but not required, to participate in any additional evaluations after the period of performance ends, although any costs incurred to participate in such evaluations are not allowable and may not be charged to the federal award.

K. Additional Performance Reporting Requirements
1164
31 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Not applicable
L. Termination of Federal Award
The FY 2026 DHS Standard Terms and Conditions sets forth a term and condition entitled “Termination of a Federal Award”. The termination provision condition listed below applies to the grant award and the “Termination of a Federal Award” term and condition in the FY 2026 DHS Standard Terms and Conditions does not.

Termination of the Federal Award by FEMA
FEMA may terminate the federal award in whole or in part for one of the following reasons:
a. If the recipient or subrecipient fails to comply with the terms and conditions of the federal award.
b. With the consent of the recipient, in which case FEMA and the recipient must agree upon the termination conditions. These conditions include the effective date and, in the case of partial termination, the portion to be terminated.
c. If the federal award no longer effectuates the program goals or agency priorities. Under this provision, FEMA may terminate the award for these purposes if any of the following reasons apply:
i. If DHS/FEMA, in its sole discretion, determines that a specific award objective is ineffective at achieving program goals as described in this NOFO; ii. If DHS/FEMA, in its sole discretion, determines that an objective of the award as described in this NOFO will be ineffective at achieving program goals or agency priorities;
iii. If DHS/FEMA, in its sole discretion, determines that the design of the grant program is flawed relative to program goals or agency priorities; iv. If DHS/FEMA, in its sole discretion, determines that the grant program is not aligned to either the DHS Strategic Plan, the FEMA Strategic Plan, or successor policies or documents;
v. If DHS/FEMA, in its sole discretion, changes or re-evaluates the goals or priorities of the grant program and determines that the award will be ineffective at achieving the updated program goals or agency priorities; or
vi. For other reasons based on program goals or agency priorities described in the termination notice provided to the recipient pursuant to 2 C.F.R. § 200.341. vii. If the awardee falls out of compliance with the Agency’s statutory or regulatory authority, award terms and conditions, or other applicable laws. d. For convenience, including, but not limited to, when the award no longer advances agency priorities or the national interest.
1165
32 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO

1. Termination of a Subaward by the Pass-Through Entity The pass-through entity may terminate a subaward in whole or in part for one of the following reasons identified in 2 C.F.R. § 200.340:
a. If the subrecipient fails to comply with the terms and conditions of the federal award. b. With the consent of the subrecipient, in which case the pass-through entity and the subrecipient must agree upon the termination conditions. These conditions include the effective date and, in the case of partial termination, the portion to be terminated. c. If the pass-through entity’s award has been terminated the pass-through recipient will terminate its subawards.

2. Termination by the Recipient or Subrecipient
The recipient or subrecipient may terminate the federal award in whole or in part for the following reason identified in 2 C.F.R. § 200.340: Upon sending FEMA or pass-through entity a written notification of the reasons for such termination, the effective date, and, in the case of partial termination, the portion to be terminated. However, if FEMA or pass-through entity determines that the remaining portion of the federal award will not accomplish the purposes for which the federal award was made, FEMA or pass-through entity may terminate the federal award in its entirety.

3. Impacts of Termination
a. When FEMA terminates the federal award prior to the end of the period of performance due to the recipient’s material failure to comply with the terms and conditions of the federal award, FEMA will report the termination in SAM.gov in the manner described at 2 C.F.R. § 200.340(c).
b. When the federal award is terminated in part or its entirety, FEMA or pass-through entity and recipient or subrecipient remain responsible for compliance with the requirements in 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.344 and § 200.345.

4. Notification Requirements
a. FEMA must provide written notice of the termination in a manner consistent with 2 C.F.R. § 200.341. The federal award will be terminated on the date of the notification unless stated otherwise in the notification.

5. Opportunities to Object and Appeal
a. Where applicable, when FEMA terminates the federal award, the written notification of termination will provide the opportunity and describe the process to object and provide information challenging the action, pursuant to 2 C.F.R. § 200.342.

6. Effects of Suspension and Termination
a. The allowability of costs to the recipient or subrecipient resulting from financial obligations incurred by the recipient or subrecipient during a suspension or after the termination of a federal award are subject to 2 C.F.R. 200.343. 1166
33 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
M. Best Practices
While not a requirement in the DHS Standard Terms and Conditions, as a best practice: Entities receiving funds through this program should ensure that cybersecurity is integrated into the design, development, operation, and maintenance of investments that impact information technology (IT) and/ or operational technology (OT) systems. Additionally, “The recipient and subrecipient must take reasonable cybersecurity and other measures to safeguard information including protected personally identifiable information (PII) and other types of information.” 2 C.F.R. § 200.303(e).

N. Payment Information
Recipients will submit payment requests in FEMA GO for FY 2025 awards under this program.

Instructions to Grant Recipients Pursuing Payments
FEMA reviews all grant payments and obligations to ensure allowability in accordance with 2 C.F.R.  § 200.305.  These measures ensure funds are disbursed appropriately while continuing to support and prioritize communities who rely on FEMA for assistance. Once a recipient submits a payment request, FEMA will review the request. If FEMA approves a payment, recipients will be notified by FEMA GO and the payment will be delivered pursuant to the recipients SAM.gov financial information. If FEMA disapproves a payment, FEMA will inform the recipient.

Processing and Payment Timeline
FEMA must comply with regulations governing payments to grant recipients. See 2 C.F.R. § 200.305. For grant recipients other than States, 2 C.F.R. § 200.305(b)(3) stipulates that FEMA is to make payments on a reimbursement basis within 30 days after receipt of the payment request, unless FEMA reasonably believes the request to be improper. For state recipients, 2 C.F.R. § 200.305(a) instructs that federal grant payments are governed by Treasury-State Cash Management Improvement Act (CMIA) agreements ("Treasury-State agreement") and default procedures codified at 31 C.F.R. part 205 and Treasury Financial Manual (TFM) 4A-2000, "Overall Disbursing Rules for All Federal Agencies." See 2 C.F.R. § 200.305(a).

Treasury-State agreements generally apply to "major federal assistance programs” that are governed by 31 C.F.R. part 205, subpart A and are identified in the Treasury-State agreement. 31 C.F.R. §§ 205.2, 205.6. Where a federal assistance (grant) program is not governed by subpart A, payment and funds transfers from FEMA to the state are subject to 31 C.F.R. part 205, subpart B.

Subpart B requires FEMA to "limit a funds transfer to a state to the minimum amounts needed by the state and must time the disbursement to be in accord with the actual, immediate cash requirements of the state in carrying out a federal assistance program or project. The timing and amount of funds transfers must be as close as is administratively feasible to a state's actual cash outlay for direct program costs and the proportionate share of any allowable indirect costs." 31 C.F.R. § 205.33(a). Nearly all FEMA grants are not “major federal assistance programs.” As a result, payments to states for those grants are subject to the "default” rules of 31 C.F.R. part 205, subpart B.
1167
34 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
If additional information is needed, a request for information will be issued by FEMA to the recipient; recipients are strongly encouraged to respond to any additional FEMA request for information inquiries within three business days. If an adequate response is not received, the request may be denied, and the entity may need to submit a new reimbursement request; this will re-start the 30-day timeline.

Submission Process
All non-disaster grant program reimbursement requests must be reviewed and approved by FEMA prior to drawdowns.

For all non-disaster reimbursement requests (regardless of system), please ensure submittal of the following information:

1. Grant ID / Award Number

2. Total amount requested for drawdown

3. Purpose of drawdown and timeframe covered (must be within the award performance period)

4. Subrecipient Funding Details (if applicable).

5. Is funding provided directly or indirectly to a subrecipient? a. If no, include statement “This grant funding is not being directed to a subrecipient.”

6. If yes, provide the following details:
a. The name, mission statement, and purpose of each subrecipient receiving funds, along with the amount allocated and the specific role or activity being reimbursed. b. Whether the subrecipient’s work or mission involves supporting aliens, regardless of whether FEMA funds support such activities.
c. Whether the payment request includes an activity involving support to aliens. d. Whether the subrecipient has any diversity, equity, and inclusion practices.3 3 Pursuant to the preliminary injunction order issued on November 21, 2025, in County of Santa Clara et al. v.

Noem, et al., No. 25-cv-08330-WHO (N.D. Cal.),  the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled "Federal AntiDiscrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act" does not apply to awards or subawards issued to any of the plaintiffs subject to the preliminary injunction order while the order remains in effect. If the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, the term will immediately become effective.

Pursuant to the preliminary injunction order issued on November 21, 2025, in City of Chicago et al. v. Noem, et al., No. 25-CV-12765 (N.D. Ill.), the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled "Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act" does not apply to awards or subawards issued to any of the plaintiffs subject to the preliminary injunction order while the order remains in effect.

If the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, the term will immediately become effective.

Pursuant to the preliminary injunction order issued on October 31, 2025, in City of Seattle v. Trump, et al., No. 2:25-cv-01435-BJR (W.D. Wa.), the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled "Anti-Discrimination" does not apply 1168
35 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO

7. Supporting documentation to demonstrate that expenses are allowable, allocable, reasonable, and necessary under 2 CFR part 200 and in compliance with the grant’s NOFO, award terms, and applicable federal regulations.

All non-disaster grant program reimbursement requests must be reviewed and approved by FEMA prior to drawdowns.

O. Immigration Conditions
The term titled “Communication and Cooperation with the Department of Homeland Security and Immigration Officials” and paragraph (2)(a)(ii) of the term titled “Federal AntiDiscrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act” in the FY 2026 DHS Standard Terms and Conditions do not apply to any federal award under this funding opportunity.

10. Other Information
A. Period of Performance Extension
Extensions to the Period of Performance (POP) for this program are allowed.

Extensions to the POP identified in the award will only be considered through formal, written requests via FEMA GO and must contain specific and compelling justifications as to why an extension is required. Recipients are advised to coordinate with the FEMA Fire Program Specialist or Program Analyst as needed when preparing an extension request. Recipients should request extensions only under exceptional circumstances. Approval is not guaranteed. AFG grants with a two-year POP are not expected to need an extension, except for vehicle/apparatus awards.

Extension requests will be granted only due to compelling legal, policy, or operational challenges. Extension requests will only be considered for the following reasons:

1. Contractual commitments by the recipient or subrecipient with vendors prevent completion of the project, including delivery of equipment or services, within the existing POP;
to awards or subawards issued to any of the plaintiffs subject to the preliminary injunction order while the order remains in effect. If the preliminary injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, the term will immediately become effective.

As stated above, Paragraph(2)(a)(ii) of the DHS Standard Term and Condition titled "Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws Material to the Government’s Payment Decisions Under the False Claims Act" will not apply even if any of these preliminary injunctions are stayed, vacated, or extinguished. 1169
36 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO

2. The project must undergo a complex environmental review that cannot be completed within the existing POP;

3. Projects are long-term by design, and therefore acceleration would compromise core programmatic goals; or

4. Where other special or extenuating circumstances exist.

Recipients must submit all proposed extension requests to FEMA for review and approval at least 120 days prior to the end of the POP to allow sufficient processing time. The review process can take up to 30 calendar days or longer. Recipients should factor this review period into the timing of when to submit a request for an extension. Extensions are typically granted for no more than six-months.

All extension requests must address the following:

1. The grant program, fiscal year, and award number;

2. Reason for the delay –including details of the legal, policy, or operational challenges that prevent the final outlay of awarded funds by the deadline;

3. Current status of the activity or activities;

4. Approved POP termination date and new project completion date;

5. Amount of funds drawn down to date;

6. Remaining available funds, both federal and, if applicable, non-federal;

7. Budget outlining how remaining federal and, if applicable, non-federal funds will be expended;

8. Plan for completion, including milestones and timeframes for achieving each milestone and the position or person responsible for implementing the plan for completion; and

9. Certification that the activity or activities will be completed within the extended POP without any modification to the original statement of work, as described in the original statement of work and as approved by FEMA.

B. Other Information
a. Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation (EHP) Compliance FEMA is required to consider effects of its actions on the environment and historic properties to ensure that activities, grants and programs funded by FEMA, comply with federal EHP laws, Executive Orders, regulations, and policies.

Recipients and subrecipients proposing projects with the potential to impact the environment or cultural resources, such as the modification or renovation of existing buildings, structures, and facilities, and/or new construction and/or replacement of buildings, structures, and facilities, must participate in the FEMA EHP review process. This includes conducting early engagement to help identify EHP resources, such as threatened or endangered species, historic properties, or communities with environmental justice concerns; submitting a detailed project description with supporting documentation to determine whether the proposed project has the potential to impact EHP resources; and, identifying mitigation measures and/or alternative courses of action that may lessen impacts to those resources.

FEMA is sometimes required to consult with other regulatory agencies and the public in order to complete the review process. Federal law requires EHP review to be completed before federal 1170
37 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
funds are released to carry out proposed projects. FEMA may not be able to fund projects that are not in compliance with applicable EHP laws, Executive Orders, regulations, and policies.

FEMA may recommend mitigation measures and/or alternative courses of action to lessen impacts to EHP resources and bring the project into EHP compliance.

EHP guidance is found at Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation. The site contains links to documents identifying agency EHP responsibilities and program requirements, such as implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act and other EHP laws, regulations, and Executive Orders. DHS and FEMA EHP policy is also found in the EHP Directive & Instruction.

All FEMA actions, including grants, must comply with National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) criteria or any more restrictive federal, state, or local floodplain management standards (44 C.F.R. § 9.11(d)(6)). For actions located within, or that may affect, a floodplain or wetland, the following alternatives must be considered: a) no action; b) alternative locations; and c) alternative actions, including alternative actions that use natural features or nature-based solutions. Where possible, natural features and nature-based solutions shall be used. If not practicable as an alternative on their own, natural features and nature-based solutions may be incorporated into actions as minimization measures.

The GPD EHP screening form is located at
https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_ehp-screening_form_ff-207-fy-21- 100_5-26-2021.pdf.

Additionally, all recipients under this funding opportunity are required to comply with the FEMA GPD EHP Policy Guidance, FEMA Policy #108-1.
https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_gpd-dhp-policy-guidance.pdf b. Procurement Integrity
When purchasing under a FEMA award, recipients and subrecipients must comply with the federal procurement standards in 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.317 – 200.327. To assist with determining whether an action is a procurement or instead a subaward, please consult 2 C.F.R. § 200.331.

For detailed guidance on the federal procurement standards, recipients and subrecipients should refer to various materials issued by FEMA’s Procurement Disaster Assistance Team (PDAT), such as the Procurement Under Grants (PUG) Manual and Contract Provisions Guide. Additional resources, including a schedule of upcoming trainings can be found on the PDAT Website:
https://www.fema.gov/grants/procurement.

Under 2 C.F.R. § 200.317, when procuring property and services under a federal award, states (including territories) and tribal governments must follow the same policies and procedures they use for procurements from their non-federal funds; additionally, states and tribal governments must now follow 2 C.F.R. § 200.321 regarding socioeconomic steps, 200.322 regarding domestic preferences for Procurements and 2 C.F.R. § 200.327 regarding required contract provisions.

States, but not tribal governments, must also follow 200.323 regarding procurement of recovered materials.

Local government and nonprofit recipients or subrecipients must have and use their own documented procurement procedures that reflect applicable State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial 1171
38 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
(SLTT) laws and regulations, provided that the procurements conform to applicable federal law and the standards identified in 2 C.F.R. Part 200.

1. Important Changes to Procurement Standards in 2 C.F.R. Part 200 On April 22, 2024, OMB revised parts of Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations, including procurement standards. These updates apply to all FEMA awards with a federal award date or disaster declaration date on or after October 1, 2024, unless stated otherwise. The revisions include changes to federal procurement standards, which outline how FEMA award recipients and subrecipients must make purchases under a FEMA award.

More information on OMB’s revisions to the federal procurement standards can be found in Purchasing Under a FEMA Award.

2. Competition and Conflicts of Interest
Under 2 C.F.R. § 200.319(b), local government and nonprofit recipients or subrecipients must exclude contractors who develop or draft specifications, requirements, statements of work, or invitations for bids from competing for those procurements. FEMA considers these activities an organizational conflict of interest and extends this restriction to contractors who assist in preparing grant applications, project plans, or project budgets. Additionally, former employees are prohibited from managing the grant or executing a contract if they were involved in these activities while employed by the recipient or subrecipient.

Under this prohibition, federal funds cannot be used to pay a contractor to execute work if that contractor was also involved in developing the specifications, unless the recipient or subrecipient procured a contract for both development and execution in compliance with 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.317–200.327. This rule applies to all contracts funded with federal grant funds, including pre-award costs, such as grant writer fees, and post-award costs, such as grant management fees.

In addition to organizational conflicts of interest, situations considered to be restrictive of competition include, but are not limited to:
• Placing unreasonable requirements on firms for them to qualify to do business; • Requiring unnecessary experience and excessive bonding; • Noncompetitive pricing practices between firms or between affiliated companies; • Noncompetitive contracts to consultants that are on retainer contracts; • Specifying only a “brand name” product instead of allowing “an equal” product to be offered and describing the performance or other relevant requirements of the procurement; and
• Any arbitrary action in the procurement process.

Under 2 C.F.R. § 200.318(c)(1), local government and nonprofit recipients or subrecipients are required to maintain written standards of conduct covering conflicts of interest and governing the actions of their employees engaged in the selection, award, and administration of contracts. No employee, officer, agent, or board member with a real or apparent conflict of interest may participate in the selection, award, or administration of a contract supported by the Federal 1172
39 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
award. A conflict of interest includes when the employee, officer, agent, or board member, any member of their immediate family, their partner, or an organization that employs or is about to employ any of the parties indicated herein, has a financial or other interest in or a tangible personal benefit from an entity considered for a contract. An employee, officer, agent, and board member of the recipient or subrecipient may neither solicit nor accept gratuities, favors, or anything of monetary value from contractors. However, the recipient or subrecipient may set standards for situations where the financial interest is not substantial or a gift is an unsolicited item of nominal value. The recipient's or subrecipient's standards of conduct must also provide for disciplinary actions to be applied for violations by its employees, officers, agents, or board members.

Under 2 C.F.R. 200.318(c)(2), if the local government and nonprofit recipient or subrecipient has a parent, affiliate, or subsidiary organization that is not a SLTT government, the recipient or subrecipient must also maintain written standards of conduct covering organizational conflicts of interest. Organizational conflict of interest means that because of a relationship with a parent company, affiliate, or subsidiary organization, the recipient or subrecipient is unable or appears to be unable to be impartial in conducting a procurement action involving a related organization.

The recipient or subrecipient must disclose in writing any potential conflicts of interest to FEMA or the pass-through entity in accordance with applicable FEMA policy.

3. Supply Schedules and Purchasing Programs
Generally, a recipient or subrecipient may seek to procure goods or services from a federal supply schedule, state supply schedule, or group purchasing agreement.

Information about General Services Administration (GSA) programs for state, local, and tribal governments, and their instrumentalities, can be found at Programs for state and local governments and authorized organizations and help for state, local, and tribal governments to make MAS buys | GSA.

4. Procurement Documentation
Per 2 C.F.R. § 200.318(i), local government and nonprofit recipients or subrecipients are required to maintain and retain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement covering at least the rationale for the procurement method, selection of contract type, contractor selection or rejection, and the basis for the contract price. States and tribal governments are reminded that in order for any cost to be allowable, it must be adequately documented per 2 C.F.R. § 200.403(g).

Examples of the types of documents that would cover this information include, but are not limited to:
• Solicitation documentation, such as requests for quotes, invitations for bids, or requests for proposals;
• Responses to solicitations, such as quotes, bids, or proposals; • Pre-solicitation independent cost estimates and post-solicitation cost/price analyses on file for review by federal personnel, if applicable;
1173
40 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Contract documents and amendments, including required contract provisions; and • Other documents required by federal regulations applicable at the time a grant is awarded to a recipient.
c. Financial Assistance Programs for Infrastructure

1. Build America, Buy America Act
Recipients and subrecipients must comply with FEMA’s implementation requirements of the Build America, Buy America Act (BABAA), which was enacted as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act §§ 70901-70927, Pub. L. No. 117-58 (2021); and Executive Order 14005, Ensuring the Future is Made in All of America by All of America’s Workers. See also 2 C.F.R. Part 184, Buy America Preferences for Infrastructure Projects and Office of Management and Budget (OMB), Memorandum M-24-02, Implementation Guidance on Application of Buy America Preference in Federal Financial Assistance Programs for Infrastructure.

None of the funds provided under this program may be used for a project for infrastructure unless the iron and steel, manufactured products, and construction materials used in that infrastructure are produced in the United States.

The Buy America preference only applies to articles, materials, and supplies that are consumed in, incorporated into, or affixed to an infrastructure project. As such, it does not apply to tools, equipment, and supplies, such as temporary scaffolding, brought to the construction site and removed at or before the completion of the infrastructure project. Nor does a Buy America preference apply to equipment and furnishings, such as movable chairs, desks, and portable computer equipment, that are used at or within the finished infrastructure project but are not an integral part of the structure or permanently affixed to the infrastructure project.

To see whether a particular FEMA federal financial assistance program is considered an infrastructure program and thus required to implement FEMA’s Build America, Buy America requirements, please see Programs and Definitions: Build America, Buy America Act | FEMA.gov.

2. Waivers
When necessary, recipients (and subrecipients through their pass-through entity) may apply for, and FEMA may grant, a waiver from these requirements.

A waiver of the domestic content procurement preference may be granted by the agency awarding official if FEMA determines that:
• Applying the domestic content procurement preference would be inconsistent with the public interest, or
• The types of iron, steel, manufactured products, or construction materials are not produced in the United States in sufficient and reasonably available quantities or of a satisfactory quality, or
1174
41 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• The inclusion of iron, steel, manufactured products, or construction materials produced in the United States will increase the cost of the overall project by more than 25%.

The process for requesting a waiver from the Buy America preference requirements can be found on FEMA’s website at: "Buy America" Preference in FEMA Financial Assistance Programs for Infrastructure | FEMA.gov.

3. Definitions
For definitions of the key terms of the Build America, Buy America Act, please visit Programs and Definitions: Build America, Buy America Act | FEMA.gov. d. Mandatory Disclosures
The non-Federal entity or applicant for a federal award must disclose, in a timely manner, in writing to the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity all violations of federal criminal law involving fraud, bribery, or gratuity violations potentially affecting the Federal award, 2 C.F.R. § 200.113.
e. Adaptive Support
Pursuant to Section 504, of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 , recipients of FEMA financial assistance must ensure that their programs and activities do not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities.
f. Record Retention

1. Record Retention Period
Financial records, supporting documents, statistical records, and all other non-Federal entity records pertinent to a Federal award generally must be maintained for at least three years from the date the final FFR is submitted. See 2 C.F.R. §200.334. Further, if the recipient does not submit a final FFR and the award is administratively closed, FEMA uses the date of administrative closeout as the start of the general record retention period.

The record retention period may be longer than three years or have a different start date in certain cases.

2. Types of Records to Retain
FEMA requires that recipients and subrecipients maintain the following documentation for federally funded purchases:
• Specifications
• Solicitations
• Competitive quotes or proposals
• Basis for selection decisions
• Purchase orders
• Contracts
1175
42 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Invoices
• Cancelled checks
h. Actions to Address Noncompliance
Non-federal entities receiving financial assistance funding from FEMA are required to comply with requirements in the terms and conditions of their awards or subawards, including the terms set forth in applicable federal statutes, regulations, NOFOs, and policies. Throughout the award lifecycle or even after an award has been closed, FEMA or the pass-through entity may discover potential or actual noncompliance on the part of a recipient or subrecipient.

In the case of any potential or actual noncompliance, FEMA may place specific conditions on an award per 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.208 and 200.339. FEMA may place a hold on funds until the matter is corrected, or additional information is provided per 2 C.F.R. § 200.339, or it may do both.

Similar remedies for noncompliance with certain federal civil rights laws are authorized pursuant to 44 C.F.R. Parts 7 and 19 or other applicable regulations.

If the noncompliance is not able to be corrected by imposing additional conditions or the recipient or subrecipient refuses to correct the matter, FEMA may take other remedies allowed under 2 C.F.R. § 200.339.
i. Audits
FEMA grant recipients are subject to audit oversight from multiple entities including the DHS OIG, the GAO, the pass-through entity, or independent auditing firms for single audits, and may cover activities and costs incurred under the award. Auditing agencies such as the DHS OIG, the GAO, and the pass-through entity (if applicable), and FEMA in its oversight capacity, must have access to records pertaining to the FEMA award.

11. Appendices
A. Appendix A – Changes
Appendix A contains a brief list of changes between FY 2024 and FY 2025 to the AFG Program.

Changes to the FY 2025 AFG NOFO include:

1. Under Wellness and Fitness Activity: Priority 1 programs are now designated as High Priority, while Priority 2 programs are designated as Medium Priority.

2. Under Wellness and Fitness Activities: ineligible participants have been updated to anyone other than fire personnel, fire inspector, or EMS personnel.

3. Excess Funds restrictions have been updated.

4. Period of performance extensions and amendment requirements have been updated.

5. Props (single-use or permanent) essential for training programs requested in the application cannot exceed $100,000 for Operations and Safety.

B. Appendix B – Programmatic Information and Priorities 1176
43 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Appendix B contains details on AFG Program information and priorities. Reviewing this information may help applicants make their application(s) more competitive.

1. Applicants sharing facilities:

Fire departments and nonaffiliated EMS organizations are recognized as distinct entities for AFG eligibility if they have distinct funding streams, personnel rosters, and EINs, even if they share the same facilities. Such entities sharing facilities may submit separate applications. However, applications to fund the same activity may require a review by FEMA to prevent the duplication of benefits.

2. Ineligible Applications and/or Organizations:

Examples of ineligible applications and/or organizations include:
• Nonaffiliated EMS organization requests for any activity that is specific or unique to structural/proximity/wildfire firefighting gear.
• Fire departments that are a federal government entity, or contracted by the federal government, and are solely responsible under a formally recognized agreement for suppression of fires on federal installations or land.
• Fire departments or nonaffiliated EMS organizations that are not independent entities but are part of, controlled by, or under the day-to-day operational command and control of a larger department, agency or AHJ.
• However, if a fire department is considered to be the same legal entity as a municipality or other governmental organization, and otherwise meets the eligibility criteria, that municipality or other governmental organization may apply on behalf of that fire department as long as the application clearly states that the fire department is considered part of the same legal entity.
• Fire-based EMS organization applying as a nonaffiliated EMS organization. • Auxiliaries, hospitals, or fire service associations or interest organizations that are not the AHJ over the applicant.
• Dive teams, search and rescue squads, or similar organizations that do not provide medical transport.
• Fire departments, regional, or nonaffiliated EMS organizations that are for profit. • State or local agencies, or subsets of any governmental entity, or any authority that do not meet the requirements as defined by 15 U.S.C. §2229 (a), (c). • Submitting multiple applications for the same equipment or activity (e.g., SCBA under both Regional and Operations and Safety activities, or two applications for the same vehicle) may result in disqualification of both applications. This rule does not apply if an applicant is applying on behalf of multiple agencies (e.g., fire departments within the same county or city). In such cases, the applicant can request similar equipment, as long as the application clearly specifies the equipment and quantities for each agency.

Multiple applications across regional and direct categories are allowed in this scenario. 1177
44 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Eligible Fire Department and nonaffiliated EMS applicants may submit only one application for each of the following application types: Individual Operations and Safety, Individual Vehicle, Regional Operations and Safety, and Regional Vehicle.
• For Operations and Safety applications, applicants may request multiple activities and multiple items within each activity.
• For Vehicle applications, applicants may submit one application for a vehicle activity (or activities) for their department and a separate application for a Regional vehicle.

However, the same vehicle(s) cannot be requested in both applications.

All duplicate application submissions may be disqualified.

Supporting Definitions for this NOFO:

Authority having Jurisdiction (AHJ) is an organization, office, or individual responsible for enforcing the requirements of a code or standard, or for approving equipment, materials, and installation, or a procedure (Per NFPA 101, 2021 Edition: Life Safety Code).

Automatic Aid is a plan developed between two or more fire departments for immediate joint response on first alarms (Per NFPA 1710, 2020 Edition and NFPA 1720, 2020 Edition).

Career Fire Department, as defined in 15 U.S.C. § 2229, means a fire department that has an all-paid force of firefighting personnel other than paid-on-call firefighters.

Combination Fire Department, as defined in 15 U.S.C. § 2229, means a fire department that has paid firefighting personnel and volunteer firefighting personnel. FEMA considers a fire department with firefighting personnel paid a stipend, regardless of the amount, on a per event basis, or paid on-call, to be a combination fire department. This includes non-fire emergency medical service personnel of the department.

Firefighting Personnel, as defined in 15 U.S.C. § 2229, means individuals, including volunteers, who are firefighters, officers of fire departments, or emergency medical service personnel of fire departments.

Mutual Aid is a written intergovernmental agreement between agencies and/or jurisdictions stating that they will assist one another on request by furnishing personnel, equipment, and/or expertise in a specified manner (NFPA 1710 Standard for the Organization and Deployment of Fire Suppression Operations, Emergency Medical Operations, and Special Operations to the Public by Career Fire Departments, 2016 and 2020 edition; and NFPA 1720 Standard for the Organization and Deployment of Fire Suppression Operations, Emergency Medical Operations, and Special Operations to the Public by Volunteer Fire Departments, 2020 Edition).

Metro Department is a metropolitan fire department that has a minimum staffing of 350 career firefighters as defined by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC). DHS/FEMA collects information on metro departments for statistical purposes only. Status as a metro department is not a factor in scoring or funding.
1178
45 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Non-federal airport and/or port authority fire or EMS organizations: are eligible only if they have a formally recognized arrangement with the local jurisdiction to provide fire suppression or emergency medical services on a first-due basis outside the confines of the airport or port facilities. Airport or port authority fire and EMS organizations whose sole responsibility is suppression of fires or EMS response on the airport grounds or port facilities are not eligible for funding under the AFG Program.

Primary First Due is a geographic area surrounding a fire station in which a company from that station is projected to be first to arrive on the scene of an incident.

State Fire Training Academies: A SFTA must be designated either by legislation or by a governor’s declaration as the sole fire service training agency within a state, territory, or the District of Columbia and recognized by the National Fire Academy. The designated SFTA shall be the only agency, bureau, division or entity within that state, territory, or the District of Columbia, to be an eligible SFTA applicant under the AFG Program.

Volunteer Fire Department, as defined in 15 U.S.C. § 2229, means a fire department that has an all-volunteer force of firefighting personnel that do not receive any compensation (does not include length of service award programs).

Community Classifications:

The information provided by the applicant organization in the Applicant Characteristics and Community Description sections of the AFG Program application determines whether FEMA classifies the jurisdiction as urban, suburban, or rural. This community classification influences the funding priority for the application.

The US Census Bureau’s urban/suburban/rural classifications are fundamentally a delineation of geographical areas. For more information, please visit the Census website at Urban and Rural.

FY 2025 demographics for determining urban, suburban, or rural include:

Community Urban Suburban Rural
Population of
primary first due
response area
>3,000 sq. mi. or
50,000+ Population
1,000-2,999/sq. mi.
or
25,000-50,000
Population
0-999/sq. mi. or
<25,000 Population
Water Supply (% of
primary first due
response area
covered by hydrant
service)
75-100% hydrants
(municipal water) 50-74% hydrants  <50% hydrants
1179
46 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Land Use within
primary first due
response area
<25% for agriculture
(based on zoning)
>50% industrial and
commercial
combined
25%-49% used for
agriculture (based on
zoning)
25%-49% industrial
and commercial
combined
>50% used for
agriculture (based on
zoning)
<25% industrial and
commercial combined
Square miles within
primary first due
response area per
station
<3 sq. mi. per station 3-9 sq. mi. per
station >10 sq. mi. per station
Applicants should review the funding priorities in Appendix B of this NOFO, categorized as "High," "Medium," or "Low." FEMA prioritizes funding for "High" priority items first.

Requesting "Medium" or "Low" priority items may lower the overall application score. For Operations and Safety – Equipment, only "High" priority items will be considered for funding.

Restrictions on Uses of Award Funds:

AFG Program funds cannot be used for hiring (part-time or full-time), salaries, benefits, or fringe benefits (e.g., contributions for social security, insurance, workers’ compensation, or retirement plans) for any personnel. However, the following personnel-related expenses are allowable:
• Backfill and Overtime/Lost Wages: Documented costs for backfill and/or overtime to support awarded training activities are eligible.
• Instructor Rates: Applicants must include instructor base rates in the application narrative, along with market-researched competitive rates for delivering the requested training.
• Internal Instruction: If training is provided by an existing member of the recipient organization, only the established base rate of compensation (excluding benefits or overtime) is eligible for reimbursement.

Recipients are encouraged to share the benefits of awarded activities with other organizations, such as filling SCBA cylinders, cleaning turnout gear, or offering excess training capacity. If costs associated with shared benefits (e.g., backfill, overtime, tuition) for members outside the recipient’s department are included, the applicant must apply as a regional applicant.

Activity Alignment:

Items requested under Additional Funding must align with the same Activity area as the primary request. Improper requests with misaligned items may be disqualified.

Allowable Requests:
1180
47 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) Packs: May be requested under the PPE activity if supporting an SCBA request. If not supporting an SCBA request, RIT packs must be requested under the Equipment activity.
• PPE Gear Bags: Eligible under the PPE activity only when associated with a PPE gear request.
• Air Compressor/Fill Station/Cascade Systems (Fixed or Mobile): May be requested under the PPE activity in support of a Regional SCBA request. If not supporting an SCBA request, these items must be requested under the Equipment activity. • PPE Gear Washer/Extractor/Dryer: May be requested under the PPE activity in support of a PPE gear request. If not supporting a PPE gear request, these items must be requested under the Equipment activity.

Application Requirements:
• Dropdown Selection: Items must be requested using the appropriate individual item dropdowns in the application. For example, nozzles and appliances should be requested under the "Appliance(s)/Nozzle(s)" option, not under the "hose (Attack/Supply)" dropdown.
• Bundled Requests: Bundled item requests must include detailed information on the number of units and cost per individual component. Requests without these details will not be considered for funding.

Funding Priorities: Operations and Safety – Training
Overview FEMA has determined that hands-on, instructor-led training, which adheres to a national, state, or DHS-adopted standard and leads to a national or state certification, offers the greatest training benefit. All of the following are considerations in pre-scoring and peer review determinations: High (H), Medium (M), Low (L)
Fire Department, Regional, and SFTA Training Priorities by Purpose H Training evaluated using national or state standards
H Training that brings a department into compliance with recommended NFPA or other national standards
H Instructor-led training that requires student testing to demonstrate academic competence or practical proficiency
Fire Department, Regional, and SFTA Training Priorities by Purpose H
Training that benefits the highest percentage of applicable personnel, such as the hazardous materials training within a fire department or training that will be open to other eligible organizations
M Training that does not result in certification
1181
48 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
M Training that is self-directed/validated
L Training that will address an identified risk but not associated with compliance to any standards
Fire Department and Regional Training Priorities by Course Type Training NFPA # Urban Suburban Rural
Firefighter I, II 1001 H H H
Fire/Emergency
Services Instructor 1041 H H H
Hazardous Materials
Response- Awareness,
Operations, Technician
470 H H H
Infection Control 1581 H H H
Confined Space
Response- Awareness,
Operations, Technician
2500 H H H
Wildland firefighting
(basic) 1140 H H H
Wildland firefighting
certification (red card) 1140 H H H
Wildland Fire Officer 1051 H H H
Rapid Intervention
Training 1407 H H H
Fire Officer 1021 H H H
Emergency Medical
Responder N/A H H H
Emergency Medical
Technician N/A H H H
Advanced Emergency
Medical Technician to
Paramedic

N/A H H H
Paramedic N/A H H H
1182
49 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Paramedic to
Community Paramedic N/A H H H
Firefighter Safety and
Survival 1407 H H H
Safety Officer 1026,1521 H H H
Fire Apparatus
Driver/Operator 1002 H H H
Fire Prevention 1037,1730 H H H
Fire Inspector 1031 H H H
Fire Investigator 921,1033 H H H
Fire Educator 1035 H H H
NIMS/Incident
Management System
(IMS)
1026,1561 H H H
Emergency Scene
Rehab 1584 H H H
Critical Incident
Debriefing/Crisis
Intervention
1500 H H H
Any training to a
National/State or
NFPA standards

N/A H H H
Fire Department and Regional Training Priorities by Course Type Training NFPA # Urban Suburban Rural
Compliance with
federal/state- mandated
program

N/A H H H
Technical RescueOperations, Technician1006,
2500 H H H
Vehicle Rescue 2500 H H H
Another officer 1021 H H M
1183
50 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Aircraft Rescue
Firefighting (ARFF)
440,
460,1003 H H M
Weapons of Mass
Destruction (WMD) 470 H H H
Mass Casualty N/A H H H
Fire Department and Regional Training Priorities by Course Type Training NFPA # Urban Suburban Rural
Training to address a
local risk not elevated
to a national or state

N/A M M M
Specialized Training N/A M M M
Maritime Firefighting 1005,
1405,1910 L L L
Instructor-led training
that does not lead to
certification

N/A L L L
Self-taught courses N/A L L L
Training not elevated to
a national or state
standard

N/A L L L
Funding Priorities for Fire Departments and Nonaffiliated EMS Organizations Training The AFG Program provides training grants to help fire departments and nonaffiliated EMS personnel meet educational and performance requirements. Training should align with the U.S.

National highway Traffic Safety Administration's National Standard Curriculum for Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training and the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT), which maintains a national standard and provides certification information for paramedics relocating to another state.

Higher Priority Training Activities:

FEMA assigns higher priority to the following training activities due to the time and cost associated with upgrading an organization’s response level:
• Upgrading from Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) to EMT. • Upgrading from Advanced EMT (AEMT) to Paramedic.
1184
51 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Training Community Paramedics.

Organizations seeking to train a high percentage of active EMRs will receive additional consideration when applying under the Training activity.

Eligible Training Activities for Fire Departments and Regional Applications include but are not limited to:
• Train-the-trainer courses
• Alternative fuel firefighting
• Response to natural disasters
• Minor interior alterations, requested under
Additional Funding and limited to $10,000 total
expenditure to support the awarded Training
activities (e.g., removal/construction of a nonweight bearing wall) • Overtime expenses paid to career firefighters to
attend training or to backfill positions for
colleagues who are in training
• Rental of facilities to conduct training
• Rental of Audio/Visual equipment
• Travel expenses associated with attendance at a
formal training course or conference (air/rail
transportation, mileage, lodging expenses, etc.)
• Compensation to volunteers (Fire and
nonaffiliated EMS) for wages lost to attend
training; there is no overtime or backfill for
volunteers
• Tuition, exam/course fees, and
certifications/certification expenses
• Purchase of training curricula and
training services (instructors)
• Chemical Biological Radiological
Nuclear and Explosive (CBRNE)
awareness, performance, planning, and
management
• Travel expenses associated with Type 3
Incident Management Teams (IMT)
attending position
development/mentoring assignment with
national Type 2 or Type 1 IMTs
• Supplies or expendables or one-time use
items essential for an award’s scope of
work, such as foam, breaching materials
(e.g., wood or sheetrock) for ventilation
or rescue props, or the amount of fuel
required to sustain an awarded live fire
training activity, or per NFPA 1403
Standard on Live Fire Training
Evolutions, reasonable safety
mitigations to a structure acquired for
training
• Props (single-use or permanent)
essential for training programs requested
in the application cannot exceed
$100,000 per prop for Operation and
Safety requests; this does not apply to
SFTA requests.

Ineligible Training Activities for Fire Departments and Regional Applications include but are not limited to:
1185
52 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Construction of facilities (buildings, towers,
sheds, etc.)
• Firefighting equipment or PPE, such as SCBA,
used exclusively for training
• Remodeling not directly related to grant
activities
• Any costs associated with planning and/or
participating in formal or planned special event
exercises to identify user needs, evaluate an
organization’s performance capabilities, validate
existing capabilities, or to facilitate coordination
and asset sharing
• Firefighting equipment and PPE rental, as well
as training facility personnel costs (such as
facility maintenance, cleaning, safety officer
services, etc.)
• Site preparation to accommodate or
modify any training activity, facility, or
prop that is a permanent or semipermanent improvement, including but not limited to: landscaping, cutting or
grading an access road, trenching,
paving a training area, exterior stairs or
sidewalks, or the installation of utilities
• Purchase or lease of real estate (this
does not preclude departments from
securing necessary training facilities
such as classrooms, use of towers,
training props, etc.)
• Purchase of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
(UAVs) and Drones
• Food and beverages

Eligible Training Activities for Nonaffiliated EMS include but are not limited to:
• EMR
• EMT
• AEMT
• AEMT to Paramedic
• Paramedic (applicant must clearly demonstrate
plan to accomplish paramedic training within
the period of performance)
• Community Paramedics (paramedics with
Primary Care certification)
• Travel expenses associated with attendance at a
formal training course or conference: air/rail
transportation, mileage, hotel/lodging expenses,
etc. (Note: Food and beverages are ineligible
travel expenses)
• Attendance at formal training forums or
conferences providing continuing
education credits
• Overtime expenses paid to career
nonaffiliated EMS responders to attend
training or to backfill positions for
colleagues who are in training
• Compensation to volunteers for wages
lost to attend training (there is no
overtime or backfill for volunteers)
• Supplies or expendables or one-time use
items essential to complete the training
activity of a nonaffiliated EMS award’s
scope of work; examples include
bandages, splints, expendable respiratory
supplies, etc.

Operations and Safety – Equipment Overview
AFG grants fund equipment for effective response, firefighting, rescue and emergency medical operations to enhance public safety.
1186
53 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Reminder: When requesting training for any items in this section, enter the request under “Additional Funding” in the “Request Details” section of the application. Clearly specify the type and scope of training, timeframe, and other relevant details in the item description section.

The training must be directly related to the use of the equipment (e.g., vendor training) and must not duplicate courses listed under the Training activity.

Also note:
• Accountability Systems: these should be requested under the Equipment activity. • Simulators, Tow Vehicles, and Fire/Evolution Props: All mobile or fixed fire/evolution props (e.g., burn trailers, forcible entry, or rescue/smoke mazes) are located under the Equipment activity.
• Monitors/Defibrillators: Requests should be based on the number of transport and nontransport ALS response vehicles in the fleet (e.g., medic engine, medic chase vehicle, ALS ambulance).
• P-25 Compliant Portable Radios: Requests must be based on the number of seated riding positions or active department members and must be justified in the request narratives. • P-25 Mobile Radios: Requests must be based on the number of vehicles in the fleet. • Replacement of Obsolete or Damaged Equipment: Requests must ensure the applicant meets applicable industry, local, state, and national standards. • Equipment Product Lifecycles: Equipment is categorized by age as Short (5–7 years), Intermediate (8–14 years), or Long (15–20 years). Items are compared only to others within the same lifespan category to ensure fair scoring. The product lifespan does not affect the score but ensures even comparison of similar equipment types.

All of the following are considerations in pre-scoring and peer review determinations:

Only high (H) priority equipment items listed below will be considered for funding.

Priority Age Category Fire and Fire Regional SFTA

BASIC EQUIPMENT
M H
Intermediate Air Compressor/Fill
Station/Cascade System (Fixed
or Mobile) for filling SCBA.

Fire Department applicants - M
Regional Applicants - H
Air Compressor/Fill Station/Cascade
System (Fixed or Mobile) for filling
SCBA – H
H Long Appliance(s)/Nozzle(s) Appliance(s)/Nozzle(s)
H Long Basic hand Tools
(Structural/Wildfire)
Basic hand Tools
(Structural/Wildfire)
M H Intermediate Electric/Gas Powered
Saws/Tools - M
Electric/Gas Powered Saws/Tools -
H
M H Short Fit Tester - M Fit Tester – H
Priority Age Category Fire and Fire Regional SFTA
M H Long Foam Eductors - M Foam Eductors - H
1187
54 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
H Intermediate Hose (Attack/Supply) Hose (Attack/Supply) H Short
Immediately Dangerous to Life
or Health (IDLH) Monitoring
Equipment
IDLH Monitoring Equipment
H Immediate
IDLH Protection for
Investigators (this is single-use
respiratory protection)
M H Long Ladders - M Ladders - H
M H Short Personal Accountability
Systems - M
Personal Accountability Systems -
H
H Intermediate PPE Washer/Extractor/Dryer
(Turnout)
PPE Washer/Extractor/Dryer
(Turnout)
M Intermediate Respirator Decontamination
System (SCBA)
Respirator Decontamination System
(SCBA)
M H Intermediate Props - M Props - H
H Intermediate RIT Pack/Cylinder RIT Pack/Cylinder
M Intermediate Generator – Portable Generator – Portable M H Intermediate Tech Rescue (Ropes, Harnesses,
Carabiners, Pulleys, etc.) - M
Tech Rescue (Ropes, Harnesses,
Carabiners, Pulleys, etc.) - H
M H Short Simulators (including virtual) -
M
Simulators (including virtual) - H
Repairs and upgrades (nonconstruction) to existing Simulators - H
H Short Thermal Imaging Camera (Must
be NFPA 1801 compliant)
Thermal Imaging Camera (Must be
NFPA 1801 compliant)
L M H Short
Software and Learning
Management System (LMS) to
support training for Fire
Departments - L
Software and LMS to support
training for Regional - M
Software and LMS to support
training - H
M Short Computers used in support of
training
Computers used in support of
training
H Short Vehicle Mounted Exhaust
Systems Vehicle Mounted Exhaust Systems
M Short
Mobile computing devices
intended to be used on scene
(Tablets)
Mobile computing devices intended
to be used on scene (Tablets)

COMMUNICATIONS
M H Intermediate Base Station (must be P-25
Compliant) - M
Base Station (must be P-25
Compliant) - H
M H Intermediate Headsets - M Headsets - H
1188
55 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
M H Intermediate Mobile Radios (must be P-25
Compliant) - M
Mobile Radios (must be P-25
Compliant) - H
M H Intermediate Mobile Repeaters (must be P25 Compliant) - M Mobile Repeaters (must be P-25
Compliant) - H
M H Intermediate Pagers (limited to number of
active members) - M
Pagers (limited to number of active
members) - H
H Intermediate Portable Radios (must be P-25
compliant)
Portable Radios (must be P-25
compliant)
M Intermediate Mobile Data Terminal (MDT) MDT
Priority Age
Category Fire and Fire Regional SFTA
M Short Software specifically to enable
Radio over IP (RoIP) Software specifically to enable RoIP

EMS EQUIPMENT
H Short Airway Equipment (NonDisposable) Airway Equipment (Non-Disposable) H Short CPAP Device (NonDisposable) CPAP Device (Non-Disposable) H Short Suction Unit (NonDisposable) Suction Unit (Non-Disposable) H Short
Automated External
Defibrillators (AEDs) BLS
Level
AEDs BLS Level
H Short Automatic Chest Compression
Device (CPR) Automatic CPR
H Short EMS Training Aids EMS Training Aids
H Short Monitor/Defibrillator Monitor/Defibrillator
H Intermediate Power Lift Cot Power Lift Cot
H Intermediate Power Lift System Power Lift System
H Short Pulse Oximeters Pulse Oximeters
H Short Responder Rehab Equipment Responder Rehab Equipment H Short Power Stair Chair Power Stair Chair
H Short Patient Carbon Monoxide
Monitor Patient Carbon Monoxide Monitor
H Short Capnography/Capnometer
Device Capnography/Capnometer Device
M Short O2 Kit O2 Kit
M Short Non-Disposable Splints Non-Disposable Splints
L Intermediate Stretcher Stretcher
L Intermediate Backboard Backboard
L Short Trauma Bag Trauma Bag
L Short Mass Casualty Kit Mass Casualty Kit
1189
56 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
L Short
Portable Lift System (i.e.,
devices, hydraulic or electrical,
used to assist with the lifting of
patients that are not associated
with cots or stair chairs)
Portable Lift System (i.e., devices,
hydraulic or electrical, used to assist
with the lifting of patients that are not
associated with cots or stair chairs)

EXTRICATION
M H Intermediate Cutter/Spreader - M Cutter/Spreader - H M H Intermediate Vehicle Extrication Equipment
- M Vehicle Extrication Equipment - H

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
M Intermediate Basic HazMat Response
Equipment Basic HazMat Response Equipment
M Intermediate
Decon, Clean-Up,
Containment and Packaging
Equipment
Decon, Clean-Up, Containment and
Packaging Equipment
M Short Sampling Devices (HazMat) Sampling Devices (HazMat)

SPECIALIZED
H Intermediate Skid Unit Skid Unit
M Intermediate Air Quality Device Air Quality Device
M Intermediate Boats Boats
M Short
Marine equipment (NFPA
1910: Standard on Marine FireFighting Vessels)
Marine equipment (NFPA 1910:

Standard on Marine Fire-Fighting
Vessels)
M Intermediate Mobile Generator Mobile Generator

Priority Age Category Fire and Fire Regional SFTA
M Intermediate Portable Pump Portable Pump
L Short Specialized Equipment
(Other) Specialized Equipment (Other)

CHEMICAL BIOLOGICAL RADIOLOGICAL NUCLEAR EQUIPMENT (CBRNE) L Short CBRNE-related Equipment CBRNE-related Equipment L Short Non-Disposable Biological
Detection Non-Disposable Biological Detection
Priority Age Category Tow Vehicles Applicant Type
Note: Tow vehicles may be applied for under different application types with differing priority levels. Please reference the chart below when applying for tow vehicles.

H Long Tow Vehicle SFTA
M Long Tow Vehicle Regional
L Long Tow Vehicle Fire Department
Priority Age Category Nonaffiliated EMS Nonaffiliated EMS Regional 1190
57 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO

COMMUNICATIONS
H Intermediate Base Station (must be P-25
Compliant)
Base Station (must be P-25
Compliant)
H Intermediate Mobile Radios (must be P-25
Compliant)
Mobile Radios (must be P-25
Compliant)
H Intermediate Mobile Repeaters (must be P25 Compliant) Mobile Repeaters (must be P-25
Compliant)
H Intermediate Pagers (limited to number of
active members)
Pagers (limited to number of active
members)
H Intermediate
Portable Radios (must be P-25
Compliant, limited to number
of AFG Program-approved
seated positions)
Portable Radios (must be P-25
Compliant, limited to number of AFG
Program-approved seated positions)
M Intermediate Mobile Data Terminal Mobile Data Terminal M Intermediate Headsets Headsets
M Short Software specifically to
enable RoIP Software specifically to enable RoIP

EMS EQUIPMENT
H Short ALS/BLS Equipment ALS/BLS Equipment
H Short Airway Equipment (NonDisposable)
Airway Equipment (NonDisposable)
H Short AEDs BLS Level AEDs BLS Level
H Short Automatic CPR Automatic CPR
H Short EMS Training Aids  EMS Training Aids
H Short CPAP Device (NonDisposable) CPAP Device (Non-Disposable) H Short Monitor/Defibrillator - 15
leads Monitor/Defibrillator - 15 leads
H Intermediate Power Lift Cot Power Lift Cot
H Intermediate Power Lift System Power Lift System
H Short Responder Rehab Equipment Responder Rehab Equipment H Short Suction unit Suction unit
H Intermediate Power Stair Chair Power Stair Chair

Priority Age Category Nonaffiliated EMS Nonaffiliated EMS Regional H Short Patient Carbon Monoxide
Monitor
Patient Carbon Monoxide
Monitor
H Short Capnography/Capnometer Device Capnography/Capnometer Device
M Short O2 Kit O2 Kit
M Short Non-Disposable Splints Non-Disposable Splints
1191
58 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
L Intermediate Stretchers Stretchers
L Intermediate Backboards Backboards
L Short Trauma Bag Trauma Bag
L Short Mass Casualty Kit Mass Casualty Kit
M Short Computers used in support of
training
Computers used in support of
training
M Short
Mobile computing devices
intended to be used on scene
(tablets)
Mobile computing devices
intended to be used on scene
(tablets)
H Short Vehicle Mounted Exhaust
Systems
Vehicle Mounted Exhaust
Systems
L Short
Portable Lift System (i.e., devices,
hydraulic or electrical, used to
assist with the lifting of patients
that are not associated with cots)
Portable Lift System (i.e., devices,
hydraulic or electrical, used to
assist with the lifting of patients
that are not associated with cots)
HazMat
M Intermediate Basic HazMat Response
Equipment
Basic HazMat Response
Equipment
M Intermediate Decon, Clean-Up, Containment
and Packaging Equipment
Decon, Clean-Up, Containment
and Packaging Equipment
M Short Sampling Devices (HazMat) Sampling Devices (HazMat)

Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS, Regional, and SFTA Equipment Priorities Priority Purpose of Request Definition
H
Obtain equipment needed but not
currently owned or replace
equipment that is broken and/or
damaged beyond repair to achieve
minimum operational and
deployment standards for existing
missions
Applies to requests for equipment needed, and not
currently owned, to achieve minimum operational
and deployment standards for a department’s
existing mission requirements. This includes
equipment that is no longer usable because it is
broken and/or damaged beyond repair.

H Replace noncompliant equipment
to current standard
Applies to equipment that is deemed obsolete
and/or is out of compliance with current standards
for that type of equipment. Equipment requested
under this reason for purchase has not been
deemed inoperable, and while it may not be
compliant with current standards it is not broken,
damaged, or otherwise unusable.
1192
59 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
M Obtain equipment for new
mission
Applies to requests for equipment, supplies, or
inventories that are intended to fulfill minimum
service requirements associated with new missions
that a department is taking on and building the
capability for but has not been previously fulfilled.

For example, this may include, but is not limited
to, establishing a new HazMat capability or Swift
Water Rescue capability.

Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS, Regional, and SFTA Equipment Priorities Priority Purpose of Request Definition
L Upgrade technology to current
standard
Applies to requests for equipment that may or may
not be owned, but newer technology is available.

Eligible Equipment Activities for Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS, Regional, and SFTA include but are not limited to:
• Shipping, taxes, assembly, and
installation of the requested equipment
• Extended warranties and service
agreements if acquired concurrent with
initial acquisition
• Minor interior alterations (requested
under Additional Funding and limited to
$10,000 total expenditure) to support the
awarded Equipment activities (e.g.,
removal/ construction of a non-weight
bearing wall)
• Equipment for response to incidents
involving CBRNE/WMD
• Training specific to the requested
equipment
• Requested support activities for equipment
requiring supplies or expendables or “onetime”
use items essential for an award’s scope of
work, such as foam, breaching materials (e.g.,
wood or sheetrock) for ventilation or rescue
props, or the amount of fuel required to sustain
an awarded live fire training activity, or per
NFPA 1403 Standard on Live Fire Training
Evolutions, reasonable safety mitigations to a
structure acquired for training
• Subscriptions necessary for the operation of the
awarded equipment and purchased
concurrently within the POP
• Computing device may be considered for
reimbursement if essential to the operation of
the funded equipment.

Ineligible Equipment Activities Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS, Regional, and SFTA include but are not limited to:
• Construction of facilities, such as
buildings, towers, or sheds to house
communications
• All fixed non-mobile repeaters or fixed
site amplifiers
• Sirens or other outdoor warning devices
• Signage of any kind
• Phones (telephone/satellite/cell) and
carrier plans
• Utility Vehicles and All-Terrain Vehicles
(UTV/ATV)
• UAVs and Drones
• Bomb disposal equipment and robots
• Mobile radios for personally owned vehicles
(except Chief Fire Officer’s personal vehicle if
justified)
• Supplies or expendables or common one-time
use items such as foam, soaps, disinfectant
wipes, medical gowns/gloves, bandages, any
1193
60 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Investments in emergency
communications systems and equipment
must meet applicable SAFECOM
Guidance
• Personal Safety/Rescue Bailout System
(PPE)
• Computer assisted dispatch (CAD)
systems and software, geographic
information systems (GIS), dispatch
consoles, workstations and office
furniture
• Nonaffiliated EMS expendable supplies
(including but not limited to
medications)
• Vehicle mounted fans
drug, intravenous bags/fluids, defibrillator
pads/electrodes, syringes, cervical collars,
batteries, exhaust system filters and splints
• Flashover or other simulators/props that do not
meet NFPA 1402 or 1403 standard (homemade
or aftermarket simulators)
• Subscriptions, memberships, equipment rental
or lease to purchase
• Refurbished equipment
Key Requirements for Interoperable Communications Equipment under the AFG Program:
• Eligibility: the acquisition of P-25 compliant interoperable communications equipment is the only eligible activity for interoperable communications equipment under the AFG Program.
• P-25 Compliance:
o P-25 compliant equipment features a digital platform that is programmable, scalable, and capable of communicating in analog mode with legacy radios, as well as in both analog and digital modes with other P-25 equipment.
o P-25 compliance enhances interoperability, enabling first responders to effectively communicate and coordinate during all-hazard responses. o Non-P-25 compliant equipment is not allowed, and no waivers for P-25 compliance will be granted.
• SAFECOM Guidance: Recipients must comply with the SAFECOM Guidance for Emergency Communication Grants, including technical standards that ensure and enhance interoperable communications.
• Documentation Requirements: Recipients must obtain and retain documented evidence that the equipment has been tested and meets all applicable P-25 compliance requirements. This documentation must be available for submission to FEMA upon request.
• Application Affirmation: While applicants are not required to specify a particular P-25- compliant product in their application narrative, they must affirm that the requested or acquired interoperable communications equipment will meet P-25 compliance standards. • Note: Recipients using FY 2025 AFG Program funds for emergency communications activities must review and comply with the SAFECOM Guidance for Emergency Communication Grants available at SAFECOM Guidance. This guidance includes provisions on technical standards to ensure and enhance interoperable communications. 1194
61 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Emergency communication equipment, such as portable radios, must adhere to these standards. Additionally, recipients must ensure their projects align with their state’s Statewide Communications Interoperability Plan (SCIP) to support coordinated and effective emergency communications. Operations and Safety – PPE Overview AFG Program funds may only be used to acquire new, compliant PPE for firefighting and nonaffiliated EMS personnel. Only PPE compliant with the most current editions of NFPA 1971, 1977, 1981, and/or 1999 is eligible. The acquisition of used, refurbished, or updated PPE is ineligible for reimbursement. PPE requests should prioritize increasing firefighter safety. Replacement and Inventory Requirements: When requesting to replace or purchase new PPE (e.g., Turnout Gear or SCBA), applicants must provide the age of the items being replaced.
• Accurately describe and account for all PPE items in the current inventory within the application narrative.

PFAS-Free PPE:
• Exposure to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) has been linked to cancer and other health effects.
• Recipients are strongly encouraged to:
• Ask vendors about compliance with PFAS-free materials. • Purchase PFAS-free gloves, hoods, boots, and other items where readily available.

Noncompliance and Replacement Guidelines:
• Based on NFPA 1851, PPE (including SCBA) is considered noncompliant if:
• It is at least 10 years old and 2 NFPA cycles behind the current standard. • PPE less than 10 years old and 2 NFPA cycles behind may be eligible for replacement if it is deemed damaged, unsafe, or unrepairable, with sufficient justification provided.

High-Priority Requests:
• SCBA Face Pieces:
o Requesting or replacing an SCBA face piece for each operational member is a High Priority.
o Additional face pieces beyond those included with SCBA units must be requested as separate line items (e.g., if 35 face pieces are needed but only 25 SCBA units are requested, the remaining 10 face pieces must be listed separately). • Complete Gear Sets:
o Structural/Proximity PPE Turnout Gear (NFPA 1971 Compliant):
 One pair of pants, one coat, one helmet, two hoods, one pair of boots, two pairs of gloves, one pair of suspenders, and one pair of goggles.  If statutorily required, additional PPE (e.g., Personal Safety/Rescue Bailout Systems) will be considered part of a complete set.
o EMS PPE Turnout Gear (NFPA 1999 Compliant):
 One pair of pants, one coat, one helmet, one pair of boots, one pair of gloves, one pair of suspenders, and one pair of goggles.
1195
62 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
o Wildfire PPE Turnout Gear (NFPA 1977 Compliant):
 One pair of pants, one coat, one jumpsuit, one helmet, one pair of boots, one pair of gloves, one pair of suspenders, one pair of goggles, one fire shelter, web gear, backpack, and canteen/hydration system.
• Additional Funding:
o PPE Gear Bags and RIT Packs: Eligible for request under Additional Funding to support PPE or SCBA requests.
o SCBA Units: A complete SCBA unit includes a harness/backpack, one face piece, and two cylinders.
o Proper Fit Considerations:
o Recipients should prioritize proper fitting gear, including considerations for female firefighters.
• Training Requirements:
o Applicants must certify that all grant-funded PPE will only be used by sufficiently trained personnel. Failure to meet this requirement will result in the request being deemed ineligible.
o If training is requested to support a PPE activity, it must be entered in the “Additional Funding” section of the “Request Details” in the application.

The following are considerations in pre-scoring and peer review determinations:

Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS, Joint/Regional, and SFTA PPE Priorities Priority Purpose of Request Definitions
H
Increase supply for new hires
and/or existing firefighters that do
not have one set of turnout gear
(PPE) or allocated seated positions
(SCBA). This includes replacing
out of service PPE-Turnout Gear
and SCBA.

Applies to PPE-Turnout Gear for new
firefighters (i.e., new hires or volunteer
recruits) and/or existing firefighters that do
not currently have one set of PPE-Turnout
Gear, and to add SCBA to fill seated riding
positions that do not currently have SCBA.

H
Replace in-service or in-use
damaged/ unsafe/unrepairable
PPE/SCBA to meet current
standard
Applies to PPE-Turnout Gear and SCBA that
is deemed damaged unsafe and unrepairable
yet still in use at the time of application.

H
Replace in-service/in-use/expired/
noncompliant PPE/SCBA to
current standard
Applies to PPE-Turnout Gear or SCBA that
is deemed obsolete and/or is out of
compliance with current standards. PPETurnout Gear or SCBA to be replaced is not compliant with
1196
63 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
current standards; it is not broken, damaged
or otherwise unusable.

L
Replace PPE/SCBA to upgrade
technology to current standard
Applies to PPE-Turnout Gear or SCBA that
is less than 10 years old for PPE-Turnout
Gear or compliant within two NFPA cycles
for SCBA.

Additional Considerations for Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS, Joint/Regional, and SFTA for PPE or SCBA Priorities
• Higher priority is given to the age of requested PPE, reason for purchase/replacement, priority. Applicant’s call volume is a lesser factor. Applicants will be required to provide the age of the PPE being replaced.
• Applicants with the oldest PPE and/or trying to bring the department into 100% NFPA compliance or the number of active members who will have compliant gear.

PPE List
Structural/Proximity H
• American National Standards Institute
(ANSI) Traffic Vests
• Boots
• Coats
• Complete Set of Turnout Gear
• Gloves
• Goggles
• Helmets
• Hoods
• Pants
• Pass Devices
• Personal Safety/Rescue Bailout System
• Suspenders
Respiratory H
• Air-Line Unit
• Face Pieces
• Respirators
• SCBA Spare Cylinders
• SCBA (SCBA Unit includes Harness/
Backpack, Face Piece, and two cylinders)
Wildfire H
• Jumpsuits/Coveralls
• Boots
• Coats
• Pants
• Suspenders
• Goggles
• Shelters
• Web Gear/Backpacks
• Canteens/Hydration Systems
• Helmets
Specialized PPE M
1197
64 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Ballistic Protective Equipment (BPE),
which includes one vest, one helmet, one
triage bag, one pair of goggles
• Chemical/Biological Suites (must conform
to NFPA 1990 2022 edition)
• Extrication Clothing/Rescue Clothing
• Proximity Suits
• Splash Suits
• Wet and Dry Suits
• Encapsulated Suits
Eligible PPE Activities for Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS, Joint/Regional and SFTA include but are not limited to:
• ANSI approved retroreflective highway
apparel
• Training for requested PPE
• Turnout gear bags
• Customized helmet shields
• Level C suits
• Personal Safety/Rescue Bailout System
• Face Pieces Regulators
Ineligible PPE Activities for Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS, Joint/Regional and SFTA include but are not limited to:
• Three-quarter length rubber boots
• Uniforms (formal/parade or station/duty) and
uniform items (hats, badges, etc.)
• PPE gear bags (ineligible unless requested as
additional funds in association with a PPE
request)
• RIT packs (ineligible unless requested as
additional funds in association with SCBA
request)
• Air Compressor/Fill Station/Cascade Systems
(ineligible unless requested as additional
funds in association with a Regional SCBA
request)
• PPE gear washer/extractor/dryer (ineligible
unless requested additional funds in
association with PPE gear request)
• Personal Safety/Rescue Bailout System for
nonaffiliated EMS organizations
• Food and beverages
• Integrated Thermal Imaging Cameras
(TIC) with heads-up display
• Bomb disposal suits
• Any communications equipment (e.g.,
radios and pagers) in the PPE section
• Structural, proximity, wildfire firefighting
gear, or rescue and extrication gear for
nonaffiliated EMS organizations
• Any decals, embroidery, engraving, flags,
graphics, logos, vehicles, and PPE Turnout
lettering that customizes awarded items
beyond the normal expectation (except
customized helmet shields)
• Funding is limited to one set of PPETurnout Gear per person • Equipment rental or lease to purchase
• Note: Where bailout system is statutorily
required, FEMA will consider all
statutorily required items to be part of a
complete PPE set

Operations and Safety – Wellness and Fitness Overview
Wellness and Fitness Activities aim to enhance the mental, physical, and emotional resilience of emergency responders to meet the demands of all hazardous operations.

To be eligible for funding, applicants must currently offer or plan to offer all five Priority 1 activities outlined in the table below. These activities are considered essential for building and maintaining the overall wellness and fitness of emergency responders. 1198
65 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Fire Department and Nonaffiliated EMS Wellness and Fitness Priorities Priority 1: (H) Wellness and Fitness Activities:
• Initial Medical Exams
• Job-Related Immunizations
• Annual Medical and Fitness Evaluations
• Behavioral health Services
• Cancer Screening Program (aligned with NFPA 1582)
All five of the above must be in place to be considered a Complete Wellness and Fitness Program.

Departments that already have some Priority 1 programs in place must request funding to implement any missing Priority 1 programs before applying for funds for additional programs All grant-funded physicals (except for explorers) must comply with the current NFPA 1582 standards (Chapter 9, Occupational Medical Evaluation). The cost of physicals should reflect local physician or health center prices. For detailed guidance on implementing NFPA 1580 physicals, visit: First Responder Center.

Fire Department and Nonaffiliated EMS Wellness and Fitness Priorities Priority 2 (M) Wellness and Fitness Activities:
• Candidate Physical Ability Evaluation.
• Exercise Equipment.
• Formal Fitness Program Development Costs (e.g., IAFF/IAFC Peer Fitness Trainer Program, including travel, overtime, and implementation costs).
• Eligibility:
• Applicants can request Priority 2 items only if they currently offer or are requesting funding for all five required Priority 1 activities.

Important Notes:
• Lower Priority for Combined Requests: Applications requesting both Priority 1 and Priority 2 activities will receive lower funding consideration than those focused solely on completing Priority 1 activities.
• NFPA 1583 Standards:
o Establishes minimum requirements for developing and managing health-related fitness programs for fire department members involved in emergency operations. o Aims to improve occupational performance, safety, and health while reducing risks of injury and disease.

Guidance for Fitness Programs:
o Programs should require mandatory participation but must not be punitive. o NFPA 1583 focuses on improving overall health and fitness, not setting physical performance criteria.

Recommendation: Applicants should complete Priority 1 activities first to increase funding chances and align with program goals
1199
66 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Eligible Wellness and Fitness Activities for Fire Department and Nonaffiliated EMS include but are not limited to:
• Behavioral health programs to include, but
not limited to: Critical Incident Stress
Management Programs, Employee
Assistance Programs
• Transportation expenses related to
a member’s participation in offered
Wellness and Fitness activities
• Contractual costs (non-hiring) for personnel
(such as nutritional counseling), physical
fitness equipment (including shipping
charges and sales tax, as applicable), and
supplies directly related to physical fitness
activities
• Minor interior alterations (requested under
Additional Funding and limited to $10,000
total expenditure) to support the awarded
Wellness and Fitness activities (e.g.,
removal/ construction of a non-weight
bearing wall); note that these will require
EHP review
Ineligible Wellness and Fitness Activities for Fire Department and Nonaffiliated EMS include but are not limited to:
• Fitness club memberships for participants or
their families
• Non-cash incentives (e.g., t-shirts or hats of
nominal value, vouchers to local businesses,
or time-off)
• Purchase of real estate
• Cash incentives
• Food and beverages
• Subscriptions and memberships
• Saunas (including infrared)
• Hyperbaric chambers
• Ice baths
• Priority 1 or 2 items for anyone other than
fire personnel, fire inspector, or EMS
personnel
• Purchase of medical equipment
• Whole-body MRI scans
• Contractual services with anyone other than
medical professionals (e.g., health care
consultants, trainers, and nutritionists) for
programs such as smoking cessation
• Purchase of equipment or personal
protective equipment that is otherwise
eligible under the Equipment activity or the
PPE activity
Operations and Safety – Modifications to Facilities Overview AFG Program funds may be used to modify fire stations and other facilities to improve safety and health conditions. New fire station construction is not eligible.

Eligible Activities:
• Source Capture Exhaust Systems (SCES):
o SCES is a High Priority item for mitigating vehicle exhaust exposure. o These systems capture exhaust gases directly from the vehicle tailpipe and expel them outside the building via mechanical or pneumatic means. 1200
67 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Sprinkler Systems
• Carbon Monoxide Alarms
• Smoke/Fire Detection Systems
Important: Only systems specific to these functions are eligible. Multi-purpose systems that include ineligible features are not allowed.

Key Requirements:

1. Environmental and Historic Preservation (EHP) Review:
• All facility modifications, including major or minor changes and equipment installations, require EHP review.

2. Minor Interior Alterations:
• Minor alterations (e.g., removal or construction of a non-weight-bearing wall) to support Training or Wellness and Fitness activities are eligible under Additional Funding, with a total expenditure limit of $10,000.

3. Funding Cap:
• The total cost for modifications (e.g., a sprinkler system and exhaust system) cannot exceed $100,000 per individual station.

4. Structural Limitations:
• Modifications cannot change the structure’s footprint or profile.

5. Health and Safety Impact:
• Eligible projects must directly improve the health and safety of firefighters.

Additional Notes:
• Vehicle Mounted Exhaust Systems: these remain classified as a High Priority item under the Equipment Activity.
• Priority for Diesel Fume Mitigation: Due to the risks posed by diesel fumes, SCES systems are considered a high Priority for facility modifications.

Applicants should ensure all requested modifications align with these guidelines to maximize funding eligibility.

Facility Considerations:

1. Highest Priority:
• Facilities staffed full-time.
• Facilities with sleeping quarters.

2. Secondary Consideration:
• Facilities without sleeping quarters.
• Facilities with part-time occupancy.

3. Next Consideration:
• Training facilities.
• Marine fire facilities.
• Intermittently occupied facilities.

Applicants should align their requests with these priorities to optimize funding consideration.

All of the following are considerations in pre-scoring and peer review determinations:
1201
68 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Eligible Modifications to Facilities Priorities for Fire Department and Nonaffiliated EMS include but are not limited to:

H
• New source capture exhaust systems, sprinkler systems, carbon monoxide, or smoke/fire detection systems – only for these types of systems and not multi- purpose systems that encompass ineligible features as described below.
• Replacement or updates to existing source capture exhaust systems, sprinkler systems, carbon monoxide, or smoke/fire detection systems are considered lower priority over requests submitted for new systems.

M
• Emergency generators, Air Quality Systems (AQSs)
• Note: AQSs are fixed equipment that are air purifying, scrubbing, and/or air exchange systems.

Ineligible Modifications to Facilities Priorities for Fire Department and Nonaffiliated EMS include but are not limited to:
• Station maintenance
• Resurfacing of bay floors
• Interior remodeling not pertaining to the
requested project(s)
• Food and beverages
• Security systems, or other alerting systems
of similar purpose designed to notify fire
stations of unauthorized access or provide
deployment notifications or multi-purpose
systems that include any of these features
even if they also include otherwise eligible
features
Regional Applications Overview
A Regional application allows a fire department or nonaffiliated EMS organization to act as a host and apply or funding on behalf of itself and other participating AFG Program-eligible organizations. The host and its partners must be the intended beneficiaries of the proposed project.

Eligibility and Requirements:

1. Host Eligibility:
• A fire department can host on behalf of other eligible fire departments and nonaffiliated EMS organizations within the same application.
• A nonaffiliated EMS organization can only host other nonaffiliated EMS organizations. • State Fire Training Academies (SFTAs) are not eligible to apply under the Regional activity.

2. Eligible Regional Activities:
• Vehicle Acquisition
• Operations and Safety, limited to:
o Training
o Equipment
o Wellness and Fitness
1202
69 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
o PPE

3. Regional Goals:
• Projects must achieve cost-effectiveness, support regional efficiency and resilience, and directly benefit more than one local jurisdiction (e.g., county, parish, town, township, city, or village).

4. Vendor Requirement:
• All departments and agencies in a Regional application must use the same vendor to foster interoperability.
• Exceptions require pre-approval by FEMA in writing and must be based on compelling operational need.

Funding Limitations:
• Funding limits are based on the total Population served by the host and participating partners.
• Example: If the host and partners serve a population of 100,000 or fewer and receive a $1 million Regional award, the host has reached its funding cap and is no longer eligible for additional AFG Program funds.

Community and Population Considerations:
• The community identification characteristic (e.g., Rural, Urban, or Suburban) and the organizational status (e.g., Career, Combination, or Volunteer) of the host applicant will apply to the Regional application, regardless of the composition of the participating partners. • The regional population served is the aggregate of the geographically fixed primary firstdue response areas of the host and participating partners. o Exceptions: If the host is also the parent organization responsible for smaller, independent stations.
• The call volume for regional applications is the aggregate of the host and regional partners Application Restrictions:
• The host and participating partners may submit their own individual applications for AFG Program activities (Vehicle Acquisition or Operations and Safety) but not for the same item. o Example: A department cannot apply for PPE under its own application and also participate in a Regional PPE application.

Application Narrative Requirements:

The host must include:
• A list of all participating organizations benefiting from the Regional project. • Validated points of contact and each organization’s EIN. • Clear and detailed information on the requested regional activities. • Specific details on the distribution of grant-funded acquisitions or contracted services and the responsibilities of the host and partner organizations.

Host Responsibilities:
• The host is responsible for all aspects of the grant, including:
o Cost share.
o Accountability for assets.
o All reporting requirements.
• The host is not considered a pass-through entity and may not issue sub-awards. 1203
70 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• The host must provide macro demographics (e.g., total square miles) and master listings (e.g., combined SCBA inventories) for the region served.

Compliance Requirements:
• All participants must be compliant with AFG Program requirements, including:
o Current status on past grants.
o Closeouts.
o Reporting requirements.
• The host agency may not distribute grant-funded assets or provide grant-funded services to non-compliant partners. FEMA will notify the host and delinquent partners of specific deficiencies.

Memorandum of Understanding (MOU):
• A Regional host and participating partners must execute an MOU or equivalent document signed by all parties.
• The MOU must specify:
o Individual and mutual responsibilities of the host and partners. o Each participant’s level of involvement in the project(s). o EINs of participating partners.
o Proposed distribution of grant-funded assets or contracted services. • Copies of the MOU will be requested during the technical evaluation of the application if it is not included originally.
• Any entity benefiting from the award must be an eligible AFG Program organization and a party to the MOU.

By adhering to these guidelines, Regional applicants can ensure their applications meet AFG Program requirements and maximize their chances of receiving funding.

Vehicle Acquisition Guidelines
Eligibility and Standards:
• Vehicles purchased with AFG Program funds must comply with NFPA 1900 standards (Standard for Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Vehicles, Wildland Fire Apparatus, and Automotive Fire) or equivalent (e.g., Standard for Automotive Ambulances). • Leases, loan payments, or installment plans for vehicles are not eligible and will not be reimbursed.

Community Paramedic/Health Vehicles:
• These are non-transport vehicles and cannot serve a dual role (e.g., as utility or support vehicles).
• Emergency response packages (e.g., lights, sirens) and operational equipment (e.g., rescue tools, firefighting equipment) are ineligible for these vehicles.

Requesting Multiple Vehicles:
• Applicants may request more than one vehicle but must stay within the financial cap based on population listed in the application.
• If multiple requests are approved, the total funding for all vehicles must remain within the financial cap.
1204
71 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Each vehicle request requires:
o A separate line item.
o A complete narrative for each vehicle.
o Details such as the age and vehicle identification number (VIN) of each vehicle being replaced.
o VINs cannot be reused across multiple line items.

Vehicle Reassignment:
• If a vehicle is not being replaced but is having its service status changed (e.g., from first due to reserve), the VIN must still be provided in the narrative for the vehicle being reassigned.

Driver/Operator Training Requirements:

1. Fire Vehicles:
• Applicants must have drivers/operators trained to NFPA 1002 standards (or equivalent) or have a training program in place before the awarded vehicle is delivered. • Failure to meet this requirement will result in ineligibility for a vehicle award.

2. Nonaffiliated EMS Vehicles:
• Drivers/operators must be trained to the National Standard Emergency Vehicle Operator Curriculum (EVOC) developed by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) or equivalent.
• A training program must be in place before the awarded vehicle is delivered.

3. Driver Training Program Requests:
• Applicants may request funding for a driver training program within the “Vehicle Acquisition” section.
• this request must be added in the “Additional Funding” area in the “Request Details” section of the Vehicle Application.
• All training programs must be completed before vehicle delivery, or the recipient will be in violation of the grant agreement.

Evaluation Criteria:
• The pre-score evaluation considers the department’s need for the vehicle based on:
o The age and condition of current vehicles.
o The demands on the organization.

By adhering to these guidelines, applicants can ensure compliance with AFG Program requirements and improve their chances of securing funding for vehicle acquisition.

Eligible Vehicle Activities for Fire Department, and SFTA include but are not limited to:

Priority Urban Communities Suburban Communities Rural Communities 1205
72 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
H
• Aerial
• Ambulance
• Pumper
• Rescue Vehicle
Light, Medium, or Heavy
• Non-Transport EMS
(Community Paramedic/
• Healthcare)
• Quint
• Brush Type III or
larger
• Aerial
• Ambulance
• Pumper
• Tanker/Tender
• Rescue Vehicle Light,
Medium or heavy
• Non-Transport EMS
(Community Paramedic/
Healthcare)
• Quint
• Brush
• Aerial
• Ambulance
• Brush/Attack
• Pumper
• Tanker/Tender
• Non-Transport EMS
(Community Paramedic/
Healthcare)
• Quint
M
• Command/Mobile
Communications Vehicle
• HazMat Unit
• Air/Light Unit
• Rehab Unit
• Command/Mobile
Communications Vehicle
• HazMat Unit
• Air/Light Unit
• Rehab Unit
• Command/Mobile
Communications Vehicle
• Hazardous Materials
Unit
• Air/Light Unit
• Rescue Vehicle
Light, Medium or Heavy
L
• ARFF
• Foam Truck
• Fire Rescue/Boat
• Highway Safety
Unit
• Hybrid (i.e.,
Transport Engine)
• Tanker/Tender
• ARFF
• Foam Truck
• Highway Safety Unit
• Hybrid (i.e., Transport
Engine)
• Fire Rescue/Boat
• ARFF
• Foam Truck
• Highway Safety
Unit
• Hybrid (i.e.,
Transport Engine)
• Fire Rescue/Boat
• Rehab Unit
Eligible Regional Vehicle Activities for Fire Departments (ALL Community Types) H
• Aerial
• Air/Light Unit
• Bariatric Ambulance
• Command/Mobile Communications Vehicle
• Non-Transport EMS (Community Paramedic/healthcare)
• Rehab Unit
• Rescue Vehicle Light, Medium or heavy
• Tow Vehicle (Applied for under equipment)
M • Highway Safety Unit
L • Hazardous Materials Unit
• Foam Truck
Eligible Nonaffiliated EMS and Nonaffiliated Regional Vehicle Activities 1206
73 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
H
• Ambulances
• Bariatric Ambulance
• Non-Transport EMS (Community Paramedic/healthcare)
Compliance with Standards
• Ambulances must comply with NFPA 1900, or GSA Federal Standard KKK-A-1822F • Applicants must certify that unsafe vehicles will be permanently removed from service if awarded a grant; acceptable uses of unsafe vehicles include farm, nursery, scrap metal, salvage, construction, or donation to a foreign entity
• Applicants should consider adopting the principles of Traffic Incident Management Systems (TIMS); the USFA report on TIMS can be found on FEMA’s website at: Traffic Incident Management Systems
• New fire apparatus must be compliant with NFPA 1900 for the year ordered/manufactured

Additional Considerations (to include, but not limited to) • Age and mileage of the vehicle being replaced; older equipment receives higher consideration
• Age of the newest vehicle in the department’s fleet that is like the vehicle to be replaced • Average age of the fleet; older equipment within the same class • Call volume of primary first due response area or region • Converted vehicles (with an emphasis on tanker/brush trucks) not designed or intended for use in the fire service departments that have automatic aid agreements, mutual aid agreements, or both; a converted vehicle is any vehicle that is not engineered to an NFPA standard, or not being used for its original design, or over its gross vehicle weight • Vehicles on loan to the organization in the application narrative but not in the organization’s inventory
• Damaged vehicles and out of service vehicles in the organization’s inventory • Replacement of open cab/jump seat configurations

IMPORTANT
Vehicle Inventory Requirements:
• Applicants may need to provide additional fleet details after submitting their application. • Vehicle inventory must include:
o Owned vehicles.
o Leased or long-term loaned vehicles.
o Vehicles ordered or under contract but not yet received.

Vehicle Definitions:
• Front Line Vehicle: Fully equipped and ready for emergency response. • Ready-Reserve Vehicle: Equipped and can quickly be made ready for response. • Reserve Vehicle: Not fully equipped, used when front-line vehicles are out of service. 1207
74 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Temporarily Out of Service Vehicle: Removed from service for repairs but will return to front-line or reserve status.
• Decommissioned Vehicle: Permanently removed from emergency duties (e.g., retired, parade use). Not included in inventory or eligible for replacement.

Vehicle Contract Requirements:
• Recipients must submit a copy of the vehicle purchase contract to FEMA for compliance monitoring.
• Without a contract, recipients cannot:
o Request advance federal funds for partial payments.
o Request a project extension.

Bond Requirements:
• Performance Bond (Recommended): Protects applicant funds if the vendor fails to deliver or goes out of business.
• Prepayment Bond (Required): Protects federal funds if federal money is advanced for a down payment. Costs are reimbursable under the grant.

Penalty Clause:
• Contracts must include a penalty clause of at least $100/day for non-delivery or nonperformance by the vendor. Exceptions require FEMA approval.

Payment Guidelines:
• Down Payment: Allowed up to 25% of the federal share. Costs beyond this must be covered by the recipient.
• Final Payment: May be requested in advance but cannot be disbursed until the vehicle is received, inspected, and accepted.

Eligible Vehicle Activities for Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS Organizations, Joint/Regional, and SFTA include but are not limited to:
• Cost of vehicle
• Physicals to meet current NFPA 1582/US
DOT 649 F
• Cost of associated equipment that is eligible
under current NFPA 1900
• Driver/operator training programs that meet
applicable standards, current NFPA 1002 or
EVOC, or equivalent
• Travel expenses (air/rail transportation,
mileage, hotel/lodging) to inspect a
requested vehicle during production Note:

Food and beverages are ineligible travel
expenses
Ineligible Vehicle Activities for Fire Department, Nonaffiliated EMS Organizations, Joint/Regional, and SFTA include but are not limited to:
• Leasing, rental, or installment purchase of
any grant funded vehicle
• Aircraft, bulldozers, or construction- related
equipment
• Using the vehicle being awarded as
collateral for any financial loan
• UTVs and ATVs
• UAVs and drones
• Used or refurbished apparatus
• Converted vehicles not originally designed
for firefighting
• Food and beverages
1208
75 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Examples of vehicle types
• Pumper (an apparatus that carries a minimum of 300 gallons of water and has a pump with the capacity to pump a minimum of 750 gallons per minute [GPM]) • Urban interface vehicles (Type I) pumper (300 gallons of water and 750 GPM) • Ambulance (vehicle used for transporting patients)
• Tanker/Tender (an apparatus that has water capacity in excess of 1,000 gallons of water) • Quint Aerial (an aerial ladder, elevating platform, or water tower that is designed to position personnel, handle materials, provide continuous egress, or discharge water) • Quint (fire apparatus with a permanently mounted fire pump, a water tank, a hose storage area, an aerial ladder or elevating platform with a permanently mounted waterway, and a complement of ground ladders)
• Aerial Ladder (elevating platform, or water tower that is designed to position personnel, handle materials, provide continuous egress, or discharge water) Unsafe Vehicles: Certification and Disposition Requirements Certification Requirement:

Applicants who specify that the vehicle(s) to be replaced are unsafe must certify that, if awarded, the vehicle will be permanently removed from emergency service response. • Permanently Removed means:
o The recipient cannot use the vehicle for any emergency service response. o The recipient cannot sell or transfer the vehicle to any individual or emergency service response organization that would use it for emergency service response.

Grant Agreement Violation:
• If a recipient certifies that an unsafe vehicle will be removed from service but later sells or transfers the vehicle to another emergency service response organization or otherwise fails to remove the vehicle from emergency service response, the recipient will be considered in violation of the grant agreement.

Acceptable Dispositions for Unsafe Vehicles:

Unsafe vehicles may be donated or sold for purposes that do not involve emergency service response. Acceptable dispositions include:
• Donation or Sale to a Training Facility:
o The vehicle may be used for training purposes only, with no emergency response outside the training grounds.
• Farm Use:
o The vehicle may be repurposed for agricultural activities. • Construction or Nursery Use:
o The vehicle may be used for construction or nursery operations. • Sale to a Non-Emergency Service Response Entity:
o The vehicle may be sold for refurbishment or other non-emergency uses. • Scrap Metal or Salvage:
o The vehicle may be dismantled or sold for parts.
• Foreign Donation:
o The vehicle may be donated to entities outside the United States for nonemergency purposes. 1209
76 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
By adhering to these guidelines, recipients ensure compliance with the grant agreement and maintain safety standards.

C. Appendix C – Award Administration Information
Appendix C provides detailed guidance on the programmatic and financial administration of AFG Program awards. Recipients are encouraged to review this information to ensure compliance with award requirements and to effectively manage their grant activities.

Help FEMA Prevent Fraud, Waste, and Abuse
If applicants or recipients have information about instances of fraud, waste, abuse, or mismanagement involving FEMA programs or operations, they should contact the DHS Office of Inspector General (OIG) hotline at (800) 323-8603, by fax at (202) 254-4297, or email [email protected].

Grant Writer/Preparation Fees: Eligibility and Documentation Requirements Eligibility for Reimbursement: Grant Writer Fees may be included as a pre-award expenditure, subject to the following conditions: Fees must comply with the cost-share requirement. Services must be competitively sourced, specifically identified, and listed in the “Request Details” section of the application. Costs must comply with 2 C.F.R. § 200.458. Reimbursement is limited to application preparation (not administration) and capped at $1,500. Timing of Allowable Costs:
• Fees must be paid within the following timeframe:
o 90 days prior to the publication date of the NOFO and up to 30 days after the application period closes.

Retainer or Subscription Fees:
• Retainer or subscription fees are eligible if:
o They were competitively secured.
o Costs are limited to the start of the appropriation period for the underlying award. o They meet the requirements under 2 C.F.R. § 200.458.

Ineligible Costs:
• Fees payable on a contingency basis are not eligible. • Federal funds cannot be used to pay entities, including grant writers, that are suspended or debarred from federal contracts.

Verification of Contractor Eligibility:
• Recipients must verify contractor eligibility under 2 C.F.R. § 180.300 to ensure compliance.

Accuracy and Certification:
• Applicants must review all work produced by grant writers or third parties for accuracy before submission.
• By submitting the application, applicants certify that:
o All information is true and accurate.
o Submission of false or misleading information, regardless of intent, may result in actions by FEMA, including:
 The application not being considered for award.
 Temporary withholding of funding under an existing award pending investigation.
 Referral to the DHS Office of Inspector General (OIG).

Required Documentation:

Applicants must provide the following documentation to FEMA upon request:

1. Grant Writer’s Contract for Services
1210
77 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO

2. Invoice or Purchase Order

3. Canceled Check (Front and Back)

4. Evidence of Competitive Procurement
• If local procurement policies do not require competitive bidding for amounts under $1,500, applicants may be asked to provide a copy of that policy.

Failure to provide the requested documentation may result in the grant writer fee being deemed ineligible, and the grant may be reduced accordingly.

Application Participants:
• FEMA requires applicants to identify all individuals or organizations that assisted with the development, preparation, or review of the application in the “Contact Information” section.
• This includes anyone involved in drafting or writing the narrative and budget, whether:
o Compensated or not.
o Assistance occurred before submission of the application.

By adhering to these guidelines, applicants can ensure compliance with FEMA requirements and avoid issues with grant writer fee eligibility.

Maintenance and Sustainment for AFG Programs
Allowable Costs:
• FEMA preparedness grant funds may cover repairs, replacements, maintenance contracts, warranties, and user fees if they directly support critical capabilities developed with FEMA or DHS grants.

Unallowable Costs:
• Routine upkeep (e.g., gasoline, tire replacement, oil changes, inspections, or facility maintenance) and related supplies are the recipient's responsibility and cannot be funded by the grant.

Guidelines for Maintenance Agreements, Warranties, and User Fees:

1. Grant Period Limitation:
• Maintenance agreements, service contracts, or warranties purchased with grant funds cannot extend beyond the grant's period of performance, unless:
o The warranty is incidental to the original equipment purchase and aligns with typical coverage for such items.

2. Stand-Alone Agreements:
• Warranties or maintenance contracts for already-owned equipment cannot exceed the grant's period of performance.

3. Reasonableness:
• Extended warranties or agreements must be reasonable for the equipment's expected useful life. For example, a 10-year warranty on equipment with a 5-year lifespan is not reasonable and cannot be charged to the grant.

Taxes, Fees, Levies, and Assessments
Taxes, fees, levies, or assessments that the recipient is legally required to pay and are directly related to any eligible AFG Program acquisition activity may be charged to an AFG Program award pursuant to 2 C.F.R. § 200.470. These charges shall be identified and enumerated in the AFG Program application narrative, as well as the “Request Details” section of the acquisition activity.
1211
78 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
Any avoidable and unreasonable costs that result from the action or inaction of a recipient (or recipient’s agent) or that prevent that recipient from enjoying any lawful exemption, waiver, or reduction of any tax, fee, levy, or assessment directly related to any eligible AFG Program acquisition activity, are not chargeable to any AFG award.

Example: Governmental entities and Public Safety Agencies are exempt from some Federal Communications Commission (FCC) fees*, but only if the eligible organization submits an exemption or waiver request to the FCC.
*Government entities are not required to pay FCC regulatory fees. Nonprofit entities (exempt under Section 501 of the Internal Revenue Code) may also be exempt. The FCC requires that any entity claiming exempt status submit, or have on file with the FCC, a valid Internal Revenue Service Determination Letter documenting its nonprofit status or certification from a governmental authority attesting to its exempt status. For more information, please visit the Federal Communications Commission website.

Excess Funds: Guidelines and Restrictions:

FEMA expects recipients to complete awarded activities within the budget allocated. However, excess funds may remain after completing the original project described in the recipient’s award.

This may be due to cost savings from under-budget acquisition activities or competitive procurement processes. These excess funds are to generally be deobligated and may not be used for additional activities.

FEMA may consider exceptions if urgent and compelling needs are identified that directly relate to a demonstrated event(s) impacting the health and safety of the department's firefighters, such as a presidentially declared disaster. Requests must be submitted at least 120 days prior to period of performance expiration. NOTE: the opportunity for excess funds is limited when the original uncompleted Scope of Work is changed via an amendment such as reduction in quantities.

Payments and Amendments
FEMA uses the Direct Deposit/Electronic Funds Transfer method of payment to recipients.

AFG Program payment/drawdown requests are generated using FEMA GO. Recipients should not expend funds until all special conditions listed on the grant award document have been met, including completion of EHP review, and the request for payment in FEMA GO has been approved. Recipients should draw down funds based upon immediate disbursement requirements; however, FEMA strongly encourages recipients to draw down funds as close to disbursement or expenditure as possible to avoid accruing interest.

Non-federal entities should keep detailed records of all transactions involving the grant. FEMA may at any time, request copies of any relevant documentation and records, including purchasing documentation along with copies of cancelled checks for verification. See, e.g., 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.318(i), 200.334, 200.337.

Advances
Advance Payments:
• Recipients can receive advance payments if they:

1. Minimize the time between receiving funds and spending them (within 30 days).

2. Maintain financial management systems that meet federal standards (2 C.F.R. Part 200).

Requirements for Advance Payments:
• Recipients must submit invoices or purchase orders with their payment requests. 1212
79 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• Environmental and Historic Preservation (EHP) review must be completed before advance payments are made.

Compliance with Federal Laws:
• Recipients must follow federal laws in effect when the grant is awarded, including:
o Uniform Administrative Requirements (2 C.F.R. Part 200). o Cash Management Improvement Act (CMIA) (31 C.F.R. Part 205).

Interest on Federal Funds:
• Interest accrues from the time funds are deposited into the recipient’s account until they are spent on program purposes.
• For the interest rate, refer to the Treasury Current Value of Funds Rate.

Reimbursement
Reimbursement Payments:
• Reimbursement is preferred if advance payment requirements under 2 C.F.R. § 200.305 cannot be met.
• Recipients must minimize the time between receiving funds and spending them, as required by 31 C.F.R. Part 205.

Requirements for Reimbursement Requests:
• Recipients must provide:

1. Proof of purchase (e.g., canceled check or credit card transaction).

2. Active SAM.gov registration.

3. Final invoice(s).

Rebates
Recipients shall disburse program income, rebates, refunds, contract settlements, audit recoveries, and interest earned on such funds before requesting additional cash payments, in accordance with 2 C.F.R. § 200.305. The reduction of federal financial participation via rebates/refunds may generate excess funds for the recipient if the recipient previously obligated their Cost Share match based upon the original award figures. If the recipient previously obligated their original Cost Share prior to the rebate, then the recipient may have minimum excess funds equal to the difference between the original Cost Share less the rebate adjusted Cost Share
Payment Requests During Closeout
Reimbursement Payment Requests:
• Recipients may submit reimbursement payment requests up to 120 days after the expiration of the Period of Performance (POP) during the award’s closeout reconciliation. • Reimbursement payments are the only eligible payment requests allowed after the grant’s POP has expired.

Eligibility Requirements for Reimbursement:
• The expenditure must have been obligated and the goods or services received during the active POP of the award.
• The payment request must include clear and specific information certifying that the liquidation of federal funds is for an obligation properly incurred during the active POP.

FEMA Review:
• FEMA may request supporting documentation for the reimbursement at any time for review.
1213
80 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
By adhering to these guidelines, recipients can ensure compliance with FEMA requirements for payment requests during the closeout period.

Amendments to AFG Program Awards: Guidelines
General Expectations:
• Recipients are expected to complete their projects as awarded. • The AFG Program does not guarantee approval of any deviation from the original award. • Amendments may be approved by FEMA on a case-by-case basis for specific reasons.

Allowable Reasons for Amendments:

1. Extension of the Period of Performance (POP):
• Extensions are limited to 6 months and only to complete the original, unamended scope of work. (vehicles/apparatus awards may be granted additional time) • Extensions cannot be used to utilize excess funds.
• Extension requests must be submitted 120 days prior to the period of performance expiring

2. Changes to the Award Scope:
• Changes to specific item descriptions.
• Adjustments to quantities of items or services procured. • Retroactive approval (pre-award).
• Closeout issues.

3. Budget Changes:
• Non-closeout deobligation of funds.
• Adjustments to unit prices due to changes in quantities.

Submission Requirements:
• Amendments must be submitted via FEMA GO.
• Requests must include specific and compelling justifications for the proposed changes. • Amendments must be submitted at least 120 days before the end of the Period of Performance (POP).

Additional Requirements:
• Recipients must maintain an active SAM.gov registration for all amendments to be considered.

By adhering to these guidelines, recipients can ensure their amendment requests are properly submitted and have the best chance of being approved by FEMA.

Deobligation of Unused Funds: Guidelines
What is Deobligation?
• Deobligation refers to the return of unused funds, including:
o Funds previously drawn down via payment requests.
o Remaining award funding that was never requested.

Process for Deobligation:

1. Submit an Amendment in FEMA GO:
• The recipient must submit an amendment stating that the unliquidated funds are not necessary for fulfilling the grant’s obligations or mission. • The amendment must also indicate the recipient’s understanding that the returned funds will be deobligated and will no longer be available for any future award expenses.

2. Confirmation Process:
• FEMA will confirm the deobligation amendment with all points of contact listed in the grant. 1214
81 | Page
FEMA AFG FY 2025 NOFO
• After confirmation, FEMA will hold the approved deobligation request for 14 days to allow the recipient time to reconsider.

3. Finalization:
• Once processed, the deobligation of funds is permanent and cannot be reversed.

Impact of Deobligation:
• Deobligation will:
o Decrease the federal portion of the grant.
o Reduce the recipient’s Cost Share obligation.
o
By following this process, recipients can return unused funds in compliance with FEMA guidelines while ensuring proper documentation and understanding of the deobligation's finality.

Disposition of Grant Funded Equipment
A recipient must use, manage, and dispose of AFG Program-funded equipment in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards at 2 C.F.R. § 200.313. Except for state governments, when original or replacement equipment acquired under an AFG award is no longer needed for the original project, program, or other activities currently or previously supported by a federal awarding agency, the recipient must request disposition instructions from FEMA. FEMA strongly recommends contacting the Fire Grants Help Desk prior to the disposition of AFG Program funded equipment, to include vehicles.
1215
City of Salinas
Legislation Text
200 Lincoln Ave., Salinas,
CA 93901
www.salinas.gov
File #: ID#26-282, Version: 1
Authorization to Submit FY 2025 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Personnel (SAFER) Grant Application for 9 Firefighter Positions
Approve a Resolution authorizing the Salinas Fire Department to submit a FY 2025 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant application for nine firefighter positions.

City of Salinas Page 1 of 1 Printed on 6/13/2026
powered by Legistar™1216
Page | 1

CITY OF SALINAS

COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: JUNE 16, 2026
DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT
FROM: SAMUEL KLEMEK, FIRE CHIEF
TITLE: AUTHORIZATION TO SUBMIT FY 2025 STAFFING FOR

ADEQUATE FIRE AND EMERGENCY PERSONNEL (SAFER)
SAFER GRANT APPLICATION FOR 9 FIREFIGHTER POSITIONS
RECOMMENDED MOTION:

A motion to approve a Resolution authorizing the Salinas Fire Department to submit a FY 2025 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant application for nine firefighter positions.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

The Fire Department seeks authorization to apply for FEMA SAFER Hiring Activity funding for nine firefighter positions. The current SAFER grant supporting these positions expires in March 2027. Without new grant funding and Council-approved funding after the grant, the City will not fund the nine positions, and they will be eliminated. The estimated three-year personnel cost is $5,066,550, with an estimated federal share of $3,103,672.50 and an estimated City cost share of $1,962,877.50 based on SAFER’s 75 percent federal share in years one and two and 35 percent federal share in year three.

BACKGROUND:

The FY 2025 SAFER Program provides funding directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter organizations to increase the number of firefighters. The Hiring Activity supports fire departments in hiring new firefighters or converting part-time or paid-on-call firefighters to fulltime positions. The current SAFER grant supporting nine firefighter positions will expire in March 2027. The City does not have funding identified to continue these positions without additional grant assistance. Elimination of the positions would create an operational capacity deficit and would require elimination of Engine 7 operations, reducing unit hour availability and increasing firefighter fatigue and mandatory overtime. The Department is already staffed below comparable and national benchmarks. Salinas has approximately 0.58 firefighters per 1,000 population, regional partners are approximately 0.92 firefighters per 1,000 population, and the national standard referenced by the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) is 1 firefighter per 1,000 population. At that standard, Salinas should have approximately 160 firefighters. Response standards and service demands are also higher than national standards, increasing the need to 1217
Page | 2
preserve current staffing capacity. Maintaining the positions through SAFER would provide a structured three-year bridge while the City evaluates long-term funding strategies for sustaining operational staffing after the grant period.

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:

No.

STRATEGIC PLAN INITIATIVE:

This action supports the City Council strategic goals of public safety.

DEPARTMENTAL COORDINATION:

The Fire Department will coordinate with the City Manager’s Office, Finance Department, City Attorney’s Office, Human Resources Department, and Purchasing staff as applicable.

FISCAL AND SUSTAINABILITY IMPACT:

Approval of the resolution authorizes submission of the grant application and identifies the anticipated local cost share or future fiscal obligation. If awarded, staff will return to the City Council as necessary to accept the award, appropriate revenues and expenditures, identify budget, and required local match or ongoing personnel costs.

Fund General Ledger Number
(Operating/CIP)
General Ledger Account
Name
Remaining Budget
Appropriation
Amount Requested

NA NA NA NA NA
ATTACHMENTS:

Resolution
Notice of Funding Opportunity
1218
Page | 1
RESOLUTION NO.

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SUBMISSION OF A FISCAL YEAR 2025 STAFFING

FOR ADEQUATE FIRE AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE GRANT APPLICATION FOR

NINE FIREFIGHTER POSITIONS
WHEREAS, the United States Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency administers the Fiscal Year 2025 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response Grant Program to help fire departments increase the number of firefighters and improve compliance with staffing, response, and operational standards; and WHEREAS, the Salinas Fire Department’s current SAFER grant supporting nine firefighter positions expires in March 2027 and the City does not have local funding identified to continue the positions without additional grant assistance; and WHEREAS, elimination of the nine positions would create an operational capacity deficit, require elimination of Engine 7 operations, increase unit hour availability, and increase firefighter fatigue and mandatory overtime; and
WHEREAS, the Department’s current staffing level is approximately 0.58 firefighters per 1,000 population, below regional partner staffing of approximately 0.92 firefighters per 1,000 population and below the Department’s referenced national standard of 1 firefighter per 1,000 population; and
WHEREAS, the estimated 36-month cost for nine firefighter positions is $5,066,550, with an estimated federal share of $3,103,672.50 and an estimated City cost share of $1,962,877.50, subject to final FEMA eligibility and award calculations.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Salinas City Council authorizes the Fire Department to submit an application to FEMA for FY 2025 SAFER Grant.

PASSED AND APPROVED this 16th day of June, 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN: APPROVED:
_______________________
Dennis Donohue, Mayor
1219
Page | 2
ATTEST:
_________________________
Patricia M. Soratos, City Clerk
1220
1 | Page
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
Fiscal Year 2025 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant Program
Fraud, waste, abuse, mismanagement, and other criminal or noncriminal misconduct related to this program may be reported to the Office of Inspector General (OIG) Hotline. The toll-free numbers to call are (800) 323-8603 and TTY (844) 889-4357.

Contents

1. Basic Information........................................................................................................................ 4 A. Agency Name ............................................................................................................................. 4 B. NOFO Title ................................................................................................................................ 4 C. Announcement Type .................................................................................................................. 4 D. Funding Opportunity Number .................................................................................................... 4 E. Assistance Listing Number ........................................................................................................ 4 F. Expected Total Funding ............................................................................................................. 4 G. Anticipated Number of Awards ................................................................................................. 4 H. Expected Award Range ............................................................................................................. 4 I. Projected Application Start Date ................................................................................................. 4 J. Projected Application End Date .................................................................................................. 4 K. Anticipated Funding Selection Date .......................................................................................... 4 L. Anticipated Award Date ............................................................................................................. 4 M. Projected Period of Performance Start Date ............................................................................. 4 N. Projected Period of Performance End Date ............................................................................... 4 O. Executive Summary ................................................................................................................... 4 P. Agency Contact .......................................................................................................................... 5

2. Eligibility .................................................................................................................................... 6 A. Eligible Entities/Entity Types .................................................................................................... 6 B. Project Type Eligibility .............................................................................................................. 7 C. Requirements for Personnel, Partners, and Other Parties .......................................................... 8 D. Maximum Number of Applications ........................................................................................... 8 E. Additional Restrictions ............................................................................................................... 8 F. References for Eligibility Factors within the NOFO ................................................................ 10 G. Cost Sharing Requirement ....................................................................................................... 10 H. Cost Share Description, Type and Restrictions ....................................................................... 10 I. Cost Sharing Calculation Example............................................................................................ 11 J. Required information for verifying Cost Share ........................................................................ 11