FOR THE COUNCIL MEETING OF FEBRUARY 6, 2024
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: City Council
FROM: Interim City Manager Alex Posada
BY: Chief of Police Marc Schneider
SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution Approving the Donation of Gas Mask Equipment to the Santa Maria Police Department from the Santa Maria Police Council
Description:
The City Council will consider approving the receipt of a donation of gas mask equipment from the Santa Maria Police Council to enhance the safety operations of the Santa Maria Police Department.
Environmental Notice: The activity if not a “Project” as defined under Section 15378 of the California Environmental Quality Act State Guidelines; therefore, pursuant to State Guidelines Section 15060(c)(3) no environmental review is required.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt a Reso lution approving the donation of gas mask equipment to the Santa Maria Police Department from the Santa Maria Police Council.
BACKGROUND:
The Santa Maria Police Council (SMPC) is a 501(c)(3) non -profit corporation with the mission to serve and support the Santa Maria Police Department (SMPD) by way of purchasing safety materials, equipment, and supplies for the men and women of the department over and above what the City’s operating budget has allocated. Since the SMPC’s formation in August 2007, they have donated many items of equipment and supplies to the SMPD.
Government Code Section 37354 provides that the City Council may accept any gift, bequest, or devi ce made to or for the City, or to or for any of its offices in their official capacity, or in trust for any public purpose. City Administration Memo CAM 2017-01 sets forth procedures for reviewing, accepting, and acknowledging gifts and/or donations offered to the City in order to: 1) establish compliance with the law in a consistent manner regardless of the source of the donation; 2) establish uniform procedures for the receipt of donations to the City; 3) cultivate an environment where residents and businesses want to contribute to the City’s programs and facilities; 4) promptly acknowledge and e xpress appreciation for donations; and 5) assure donations are properly inventoried and accounted for.
2 DISCUSSION:
The gas mask equipment donation is an essential piece of equipment for the first responder. The mask protects the first responder’s respiratory system while allowing wearers to maintain visibility when faced with chemical agents that would otherwise incapacitate them. These masks will allow SMPD to ensure that all first responders are equipped and able to perform in environments involving the use or potential use of chemical agents. Ultimately, this equipment will increase the SMPD’s ability to protect the community.
Fiscal Considerations
There is no fiscal impact on the General Fund associated with this donation. The total cost of the gas mask equipment is estimated at $49,072 and will be paid in full by the SMPC. In accordance with the City’s Gift and/or Donation Policy, offers of donations valued at more than $25,000 must be accepted by the City Council.
Impact to the Community
This donation validates the important contribution that the City of Santa Maria Police Department makes to the community as recognized by the Santa Maria Police Council.
This generous donation to the Police Department will greatly assist staff in providing and maintaining a high level of service to the community.