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Consider a memorandum/resolution approving the purchase of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and associated equipment from MES Life Safety, in the amount of $3,012,625.15, and a mobile air compressor trailer from August Industries, in the amount of $222,639.90.
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DATE: January 6, 2026
TO: Kent Cagle, City Manager
FROM: James Kubinski, Fire Chief
SUBJECT: Purchase of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and Associated Equipment and an Air Compressor Trailer
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS:
The Fire Department uses a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA’s) which is a portable system that provides firefighters with clean, breathable air in hazardous environments like smoke-filled buildings or during chemical incidents. It consists of a high-pressure air cylinder, a harness, a pressure regulator, and a facepiece that allows the user to breathe independently from the contaminated atmosphere. Wearing an SCBA is critical for survival, as it prevents inhalation of toxic gases and particulates, and firefighters are trained to use it through all phases of an incident, including after the flames are extinguished.
The system consists of:
Air Cylinder: A high-pressure tank that holds compressed air.
Harness: A frame worn on the firefighter's back to hold the cylinder and other components.
Regulator: A system that reduces the high-pressure air from the cylinder to a breathable level.
Facepiece: A full-face mask with a demand valve or other interface that delivers the regulated air to the user and seals out the surrounding air.
Why it's essential:
Safety: It allows firefighters to operate in toxic atmospheres where oxygen may be low or absent, protecting them from harmful gases and particulates.
Versatility: SCBAs are used in a wide range of emergencies, including structural fires, hazardous materials incidents, and confined space rescues.
The Fire Department established a committee of firefighters and officers to evaluate 3 manufacturers to determine the best option for our department needs, now and in the future. The evaluation was performed in 3 phases:
Phase 1: Educational Session and Product Overviews
Consisted of comprehensive briefings from representatives of each manufacturer, who presented their latest SCBA models. These sessions covered critical aspects such as operational instructions, user features, safety mechanisms, customization options, service protocols, and warranty terms.
Phase 2: Field Evaluations
Consisted of hands-on field evaluations to assess the practical performance of each SCBA. A physical agility course was designed to simulate the demanding conditions encountered at emergency scenes. Committee members tested each SCBA model through the course, evaluating key factors such as comfort, communication clarity, usability, and durability. The evaluation committee then created a list of strengths and weaknesses for each system.
Phase 3: Technical Analysis and Additional Research
Consisted of meticulous technical review with our in-house SCBA technician and Support Division to scrutinize each model. The committee also consulted other fire departments using these SCBA models to gather real-world insights.
Mobile Air Trailer Responder 25D
To refill SCBA’s on an active scene, the Fire Department is requesting a mobile SCBA filling station. This consists of a cascade system which is a high-pressure breathing air storage and refilling system. It uses multiple connected air cylinders to efficiently refill SCBA tanks for personnel, ensuring a continuous supply of air on large fires and other extended incidents where personnel may use multiple bottles. Available through August Industries Buyboard contract 698-23.
Base price: $205,667.00
Available options:
• Roof Top A/C, Heat strips, and thermostat: $3,537.82
• Electric tongue jack: $763.84
• 12’ power awning with weather guard, 8 ft deep: $2,565.24
• Spare tire and mount: $637.20
• LED Exterior Flood Light Set of 4: $1,468.80
• 3 position fill station upgrade: $2,500.00
• Shipping $5,500
Total: 222,639.90
THE ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED:
SCBA Options:
1: MSA G1 XR Edition
2: Drager PSS 7000
3: Scott X3 Pro
Which alternative is recommended? Why?
Staff recommends the Scott X3 Pro system and associated equipment for its proven design, lifetime warranty, dual-redundant safety features, superior reliability, and availability through MES Sourcewell Contract #011824 .
CONFORMITY TO CITY POLICY:
The purchase of the Scott X3 Pro SCBA systems and associated equipment will be made through MES Life Safety Sourcewell Contract #011824. The purchase of the Mobile Air Trailer Responder 25D will be made through August Industries Buyboard contract #698-23. Purchases made through a cooperative contract are exempt from the competitive bidding process, as stated in Texas Local Government Code (TLGC) section 271.102, subchapter F, “a local government that purchases goods or services under this subchapter satisfies any state law requiring the local government to seek competitive bids for the purchase of the goods or services.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
What is the amount of the expenditure in the current fiscal year? For future years?
MES Life Safety: $3,012,625.15
August Industries: $222,639.90
Total FY26 expenditure: $3,235,265.05
Is this a one-time or recurring expenditure?
One-Time
Is this expenditure budgeted?
Yes, funding is available in account 300-56315-900-250-926012.
If not, where will the money come from?
N/A
Is there a sufficient amount in the budgeted line-item for this expenditure?
Yes
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the purchase of 165 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus systems and associated equipment through MES Life Safety Sourcewell Contract #011824, in the amount of $3,012,625.15, and execute the purchase of the Mobile Air Trailer Responder 25D with available options through August Industries Buyboard contract #698-23, in the amount of $222,639.90, and that the City Manager or his designee is expressly authorized to execute any and all change orders within the amounts set by state and local law.
DEPARTMENTAL CLEARANCES:
Legal, Purchasing, Finance
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
Quotes
SCBA Committee Review
Contract Verification Forms
Certificates of Interested Parties
Presentation