TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager, or designee, to execute all necessary documents and any subsequent amendments, including any amendments to the award amount and term dates, with the Department of Homeland Security for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) funding for the purchase of Fire Rescue Equipment for fire and rescue services in the amount of $447,367 for the performance period of August 1, 2023, to July 31, 2025; and
Increase appropriations in the General Grants Fund Group in the Fire Department by $447,367 offset by grant revenue and by a transfer of funds from the General Fund Group in the Fire Department. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
The Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG 2022) Program is one of three grant programs under the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFGP) with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) that focuses on enhancing the safety of the public and firefighters with respect to fire and fire-related hazards.
The AFG Grant will fund the purchase of extrication tools, cutters and spreaders, and related supplies under the operations and safety equipment for fire and rescue services that are in dire need of replacement. These tools need immediate replacement due to it being damaged to the point they are unrepairable, broken, and are old “hydraulic” sets purchased greater than 15 years ago.
In acceptance of the grant award, Long Beach Fire Department can more effectively and safely respond to emergencies with proper tools and equipment needed in response to incidents.
AFG 2022 requires a non-federal recipient contribution of non-federal funds equal to or greater than 10 percent of the federal funds awarded, or $40,670 for a total approved budget of $447,367.
The AFG 2022 grant will assist with purchasing new equipment and improving efficiency and benefit the City of Long Beach and the Fire Department in supporting its mission to protect lives, property, and the environment, improving the quality of life, and safety of the community.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Arturo D. Sanchez on August 23, 2023 and by Budget Development Officer Jennifer Rodriguez on August 22, 2023.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on September 12, 2023, to ensure the City can expend these funds within the performance period of the grant.
FISCAL IMPACT
The City will receive grant funding up to $406,697 for the period of August 1, 2023 to July 31, 2025. There is a required 10 percent non-federal contribution, or $40,670, which is currently budgeted in the General Fund Group in the Fire Department. An appropriation increase is requested in the amount of $447,367 in the General Grants Fund Group in the Fire Department, offset by grant revenue and by a transfer of funds from the General Fund Group in the Fire Department. This recommendation has no staffing impact beyond the normal budgeted scope of duties and is consistent with existing City Council priorities. There is no local job impact associated with this recommendation.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
DENNIS BUCHANAN
FIRE CHIEF
APPROVED:
THOMAS B. MODICA
CITY MANAGER