REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: BILLY ALCORN, Fire Chief
Fire Department
SUBJECT
Title
Actions related to the 2024 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Award in the amount of $702,728, requiring a City match of $72,273, for funding to purchase and install Source Capture Exhaust Systems (SCES) in fire stations:
1. Adopt a finding of Categorical Exemption pursuant to Section 15301/Class 1 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines
2. ***RESOLUTION - Authorizing the acceptance of the 2024 AFG grant and authorizing completion and submission of all required documents (Subject to Mayor’s Veto)
Body
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended Council adopt the resolution to accept the 2024 AFG Grant for $702,728 with a City match of $72,273 and authorize the Fire chief to complete all required documents.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Fresno Fire Department (FFD) has been awarded $702,728 under the FY 2024 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, requiring a City cost share of $72,273, for a total project cost of $775,001. The grant will fund the purchase and installation of Source Capture Exhaust Systems (SCES) in 13 fire stations (38 hose drops across apparatus bays). These systems will capture 100% of diesel exhaust at the tailpipe, aligning with NFPA 1500 10.1.5 and FFD’s Exposure Risk Reduction Policy.
Diesel exhaust is a recognized carcinogen and has been a persistent occupational hazard inside fire stations, where contaminants can migrate into living and sleeping areas. Installing SCES is the most effective and immediate mitigation available. Acceptance of this award will enable FFD to begin procurement and installation, train personnel on system use and maintenance, and measurably reduce cancer risk to firefighters and the public who visit our stations.
BACKGROUND
FFD responds from 21 fire stations citywide. Many of our stations were constructed before modern source-capture controls and currently lack adequate diesel exhaust mitigation. Diesel exhaust contains known carcinogens; the World Health Organization, EPA, and NIOSH recognize diesel particulate matter as a significant health hazard. Within stations, visible residue has been observed in living and sleeping areas, highlighting the need for effective source capture.
Under this project, FFD will install SCES in 13 stations covering 38 apparatus positions. The systems connect directly to the vehicle exhaust and automatically disengage as apparatus exit, capturing emissions at the source. This approach is consistent with NFPA 1500 10.1.5, which calls for controls that prevent contamination of occupied spaces.
Implementation activities include: (1) site verification and layout for each station; (2) procurement of equipment and installation services; (3) installation and testing; (4) member training on operation and preventive maintenance; and (5) incorporation of SCES use into FFD’s Exposure Risk Reduction Policy and station standard operating procedures. Work will be sequenced to minimize service disruption and coordinated with station captains.
The AFG award reflects FEMA’s prioritization of firefighter cancer risk reduction. This project directly supports that objective by eliminating diesel exhaust accumulation inside stations and safeguarding both personnel and visitors.
FISCAL IMPACT
The FY 2024 AFG award provides $702,728 in federal funds and requires a City cost share of $72,273, for a total project cost of $775,001. The non‑federal share will be requested in FY 27 during the budget build process.
There is no impact on staffing levels. Ongoing costs are expected to be minimal and absorbed within the Fire Department’s operating budget (e.g., periodic filter replacement and preventive maintenance). The project is expected to reduce long‑term risk and liability associated with occupational exposure to diesel exhaust.
LOCAL PREFERENCE
Local preference was not implemented because this item is not an award of a construction or services contract.
ENVIRONMENTAL FINDINGS
The proposed project has been reviewed pursuant to the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and is categorically exempt under Section 15301 (Existing Facilities) of the CEQA Guidelines. The project involves minor alterations to existing public facilities and mechanical systems that will not result in an expansion of use. Furthermore, none of the exceptions to the Categorical Exemptions set forth in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2, apply to this project.
As a condition of the FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant, the project is also subject to FEMA’s Environmental and Historic Preservation (EHP) review. Fresno Fire Department is in the process of completing the required FEMA EHP Screening Form and providing supporting documentation. All work will occur within existing facilities, with only minimal ground disturbance for electrical connections.
No significant environmental impacts are anticipated. If FEMA or the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) determines that further review is required, particularly for stations over 50 years old, FFD will comply prior to project implementation.
Attachment:
Resolution