FOR THE COUNCIL MEETING OF FEBRUARY 20, 2024
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: City Council
FROM: Interim City Manager Alex Posada
BY: Fire Chief – Bradley J. Dandridge
SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution Authorizing the Submission of an Application for a 2023 Assistance to Firefighters Grant for Personal Protective Equipment
Description:
The City Council will consider authorizing the submission of an application to the Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program.
Environmental Notice:
The activity is 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 Resolution authorizing the submission of an application to the Federal Emergency Management Agency for a 2023 Assistance to Firefighters Grant for personal protective equipment.
BACKGROUND:
Since 2001, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) has helped firefighters and other first responders obtain critically needed resources necessary for protecting the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards. The Santa Maria Fire Department has received several AFG grants , including wellness physicals for Fire Department personnel, S elf-Contained Breathing Apparatus, a ladder truck, two fire stations, and training.
DISCUSSION:
The Fire Department is requesting authorization to submit a grant application for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for $75,000, to replace worn-out or expired PPE.
Fiscal Considerations
If awarded, the grant would provide $67,500 toward the purchase of PPE with a 10 percent match of $7,500 by the City.
Impact to the Community
An award through the AFG will provide upgraded equipment that meets minimum safety standards and will improve the Fire Department’s ability to suppress fires more efficiently.