REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL
June 25, 2020
FROM: KERRI L. DONIS, Fire Chief
Fire Department
SUBJECT
Title
Actions pertaining to the Fresno Fire Department's Firefighting Turnouts
1. Award a 3-year sole source contract, not to exceed $566,900 to LN Curtis for the purchase of Globe firefighting turnouts as a sole-source provider based on unique features only available with Globe turnouts.
2. RESOLUTION - Adopt Resolution authorizing the Fire Department Chief or designee to enter into a three year contract with LN Curtis without advertised competitive bidding.
Body
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends Council award a 3-year contract, not to exceed $566,900 to LN Curtis, exclusive regional distributor for the purchase of Globe turnouts as a sole-source provider based on unique features and overall test results of major manufacturers.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Fire Department, as part of its ongoing personal protective equipment (PPE) replacement plan for turnouts, projects up to 200 sets will need replacement between fiscal years 2021 and 2023, utilizing base-budget funding for those years. With the expiration of its current supplier contract in fiscal year 2020, a new contract is required starting in fiscal year 2021. Turnouts are intended to have a 10-year life span. Turnouts from major suppliers were tested and evaluated by a committee of members of the Fresno Fire Department. The Globe Turnouts rated most favorable from composite test scores related to safety, heat resistance, insulation materials, and mobility factors among others.
BACKGROUND
Turnouts are the most essential part of firefighters PPE. It is the equipment that separates and protects firefighters from heat, smoke, and flame. Turnouts must provide firefighters with heat protection as well as mobility and ventilation for rescue situations.
Each of the Fire Departments 302 firefighters has two sets of turnouts. Turnouts typically have a 10-year life depending on wear and tear ...
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