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AUTHORIZATION FOR THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN AND TRANSMIT AN APPLICATION TO THE FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY (FEMA) ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTERS GRANT PROGRAM
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NOTE: The FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program enhances the safety of the public and firefighters by providing direct financial assistance to address fire and fire-related hazards. The funds provide critically needed resources that equip and train emergency personnel to recognize standards, enhance operational efficiencies, foster interoperability, and support community resilience.
The City of Pinellas Park Fire Department proposes to submit an online application for funding to install Source Capture Exhaust Extraction Systems (SCES) at each of its existing stations. An SCES is a system that directly captures exhaust gases from a vehicle through a conduit that attaches to or over the end of the vehicle’s exhaust system at the tailpipe. The exhaust is then expelled to the exterior of the building. SCES have a direct effect on the health and safety of firefighters by reducing their exposure to diesel exhaust gases and particulates, which are known to cause health impacts from headache and respiratory disease to cancer. SCES has been demonstrated to be the most effective means available to reduce firefighter exposure to diesel exhaust.
If awarded, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant will reimburse the City up to $258,786 for purchase, delivery and installation of SCES in Stations 16, 33, 34, and 35 and for extended maintenance for a five-year period following installation. The City will be responsible for a 10% cost share not to exceed $28,754.
Recommendation
ACTION: (Approve - Deny) Authorization to submit 2019 Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) Grant application to the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency.