TITLE
Consider a memorandum/resolution authorizing the purchase of turnout gear in the amount of $308,445.99, from North American Fire Equipment Company.
SUMMARY
DATE: July 6, 2021
TO: Kent Cagle, City Manager
FROM: James Kubinski, Fire Chief
SUBJECT: Purchase of Fire Department Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) & Uniforms
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS:
The Fire Department works towards replacing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) every five years to remain in compliance with NFPA 1851 (National Fire Protection Association). Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is the protective ensemble worn by firefighters which typically consists of the following garments: coat, trousers, boots, helmet, hood and gloves. These items help protect firefighters in environments immediately dangerous to life or health. The fire department must occasionally replace PPE that is damaged and unable to be repaired. Additionally, industry standard establishes a usable lifespan for PPE of 5 years for front line use and 5 additional years as reserve or training gear. After completing an audit of all in-service PPE, the Fire Department identified the need to replace 89 sets of structural PPE, 46 sets of Wildland PPE, and daily uniforms for 229 personnel. This will also allow us to outfit new employees who will be on shift before the end of this fiscal year. The annual expenditure with North American Fire Equipment Company (Nafeco) is for $308,445.99 through Sourcewell cooperative contract #86944.
THE ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED:
1: Approve the purchase.
2: Approve an amended purchase to include only 30 sets of turnout gear originally budgeted for FY21 and not utilize salary savings for additional expiring sets of turnout gear.
3: Not approve the purchase.
Which alternative is recommended?
The first alternative provides for the most efficient use of City resources and the best option for pu...
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