Discussion and possible action to: (a) approve a budget amendment not to exceed $2,500,000 from the General Fund Contingency account to the Fire-Medical Department Vehicles account for the purchase of two vehicles: and (b) approve the purchase of a Utility Vehicle and Water Tender.

As a part of the Fiscal Year 2024 budget process, the Fire-Medical Department identified the need for the Utility Vehicle and Water Tender during the supplemental process. During the supplemental process, the availability of funds to meet the needs of all departments did not allow the supplemental to move forward. This request will allow for the purchase of the two vehicles not to exceed $2,500,000.

As the City continues to grow, fire department resources are required to meet the needs of the citizens. The Utility Vehicle will provide scene support, lighting, hydration, a refill station for Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) bottles and an air-conditioned rehab area for emergency personnel, including Police officers, on working incidents. The 3000 gallon Water Tender will be at Lake Pleasant Station 199 for wildland and structural firefighting in the northern portion of the city where fire hydrants are limited or non-existent. This request will decrease the City’s Insurance Services Organization (ISO) rating from 1X to 1. ISO ratings can decrease insurance rates for businesses and residents in the area.

An amendment for $2,500,000 is requested to acquire the Utility Vehicle and Water Tender. 

There were no appropriated funds for the purchase of a Utility Vehicle and Water Tender as part of the Fiscal Year 2024 City budget process.  

Staff recommends that City Council approve a budget amendment not to exceed $2,500,000 from the General Fund Contingency account to the Fire-Medical Department Vehicles account for the purchase of two vehicles and approve the purchase of a Utility Vehicle and Water Tender.

Utility Vehicle                     $2,000,000           (Manufacturer - Estimate)

Water Tender                     $   500,000           (Manufacturer - Estimate)

Total                                  $2,500,000                           

The $2,500,000 budget amendment will use funds from the General Fund Contingency Account 1000-0300-570000 to Fire-Department Vehicles Account 1000-1260-542502 to cover the manufacturer cost for the addition of the Utility Vehicle and Water Tender.

Fire-Medical Department Vehicles - $2,500,000