Presenter/Contact
Presenter
Kenneth Jacks, Fire Chief
Contact Info
(830) 221-4200 - kjacks@nbtexas.org
Subject Header
SUBJECT:
Title
Approval of the purchase of chemical identification equipment from Fisher Safety America, Inc., a part of Fisher Scientific Company LLC, for the Fire Department under the State Homeland Security Program.
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BACKGROUND / RATIONALE:
In October 2016, City Council approved the ratification for the submission of a grant application to the State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) from Office of the Governor - Homeland Security Grants Division, for up to $52,500, to purchase First Defender RM S1 Product Identification Equipment. Notification for approval of the project by the granting agency was received by the City in January 2017 with a request for a subsequent resolution confirming City Council approval of the grant application. The associated resolution was approved by City Council on February 13, 2017.
The Fire Department is requesting the purchase of a “FirstDefender RM Chemical Identification System” which is a rugged, handheld chemical identification system for solids and liquids. The system allows for non-contact, non-destructive chemical analysis that enables emergency first responders to obtain accurate identification of chemicals, explosives and hazardous materials in seconds, including through sealed translucent containers, thereby enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of the Fire Department.
The purchase price for the chemical identification equipment is $51,450; therefore, the City is eligible for full reimbursement by the granting agency. The equipment is being purchased from Fisher Safety America, Inc., a part of Fisher Scientific Company LLC, utilizing an H-GAC contract.
ADDRESSES A NEED/ISSUE IN A CITY PLAN OR COUNCIL PRIORITY:
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Yes |
Strategic Priorities 2: Use a variety of funding sources for operational and capital needs. |
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no match requirement for the grant. The purchase price for the equipment is $51,450; the grant will fund up to $52,500. The purchase is initially supported by the funding incorporated into the City’s FY 2017-18 Adopted Budget; however, the City will receive reimbursement from the granting agency upon the receipt and full payment of the equipment. Therefore, sufficient funds are available to purchase the system as described above.
Recommendation
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval for the purchase of chemical identification equipment from Fisher Safety America, Inc., a part of Fisher Scientific Company LLC, for the Fire Department under the State Homeland Security Program.