REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: HENRY THOMPSON, Director of Aviation
Airports Department
BY: FRANCISCO PARTIDA, Assistant Director
Airports Department
SUBJECT
Title
Award an equipment contract to Oshkosh Airport Products, a Division of Pierce Manufacturing, Inc., for the procurement of one Class 5, 3,000-gallon Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Vehicle for Fresno Yosemite International Airport in the amount of $1,421,363.47 (Council District 4)
Body
RECOMMENDATION
Authorize the Director of Aviation to execute an equipment contract with Oshkosh Airport Products, a Division of Pierce Manufacturing, Inc. in the amount of $1,421,363.47 for the procurement of one Class 5, 3,000-gallon Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) Vehicle (Bid File 12400198) for Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
ARFF vehicles are specifically designed and used for aircraft firefighting and rescue activities and are Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) required equipment at commercial air service airports. FAT has two such vehicles, one purchased in 2015 (ARFF #1) and the other purchased in 2007 (ARFF #2). ARFF #2 is beyond its useful life and is due for retirement. Acquiring the new ARFF vehicle supports FAT’s efforts to provide efficient aircraft rescue and firefighting services and meet FAA certification standards.
BACKGROUND
FAA Advisory Circular (AC) No. 150/5220-10E (Guide Specification for Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Vehicles) outlines the criteria used to assess the need and timing for retirement and replacement of an ARFF Vehicle. Factors that the AC considers include increased maintenance costs, minimum equipment standards and a recommended replacement schedule. The FAA confirmed Airports Department compliance with the AC and concurred the need for a new vehicle.
Specifications were prepared for the ARFF vehicle by the Department with guidance from the FAA and input from the Fresno Fire Department (FFD) and Purchasing Division. The solicitation for bids was advertised in the Fresno Business Journal on February 14, 2024, and posted on the City’s website. Specifications were distributed to seven prospective bidders. One (1) sealed bid was received and opened in a public bid opening on March 19, 2024. The bid proposal price was $1,421,363.47.
The lowest responsible and responsive bid from Oshkosh Airport Products, a Division of Pierce Manufacturing, Inc., in the amount of $1,421,363.47, is 16% below the estimate ($1,700,000). The project budget enables the Department to recommend award of an equipment contract to Oshkosh Airport Products, a Division of Pierce Manufacturing, Inc., for the procurement of a Class 5, 3,000-gallon ARFF vehicle in the amount of $1,421,363.47.
Once a procurement contract is executed, the Department will work with Oshkosh during the fabrication process. Delivery is anticipated to be in approximately 12 months. During that time specifications for an ancillary equipment package will be prepared in accordance with FAA standards and advertised for bids. The Department anticipates bringing the ancillary equipment package to Council for award at a later date.
The ARFF function at the airport is specifically geared for and dedicated to aircraft firefighting and rescue operations and is governed by FAA regulations. Airports currently contracts with FFD for the staffing of this function.
ENVIRONMENTAL FINDINGS
This is not a “project” for the purpose of CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15378.
LOCAL PREFERENCE
The City’s Local Preference Ordinance (FMC 4-108) does not apply since Federal funding is being used.
FISCAL IMPACT
Acquisition of this ARFF vehicle is part of the Airports Department ongoing commitment to ensure FAT remains operationally ready and is properly positioned for local and regional growth. This project is included in the Airports FY 2025 Capital Budget. Funding for this project will be provided initially by Airport Revenues and subsequently the airport will submit a PFC application to FAA for reimbursement. There is no fiscal impact to the General Fund or rate payers of the City of Fresno from the purchase of this vehicle.
Attachment:
Product Purchase Contract