FROM:
Finance
SUBJECT:
Title
Award Contract for Fire Brush Management Services to Fire Grazers, Inc.
End
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
1. Authorize the Purchasing Division to use the non-competitive source selection to award a contract for fire brush management services with Fire Grazers, Inc. of Mariposa, CA in the amount of $52,940 and a 15% contingency in the amount of $7,941.
2. Approve an appropriation of $60,881 to the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Fire Protection District budget to include the contract amount of $52,940 and a 15% contingency of $7,941.
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COUNCIL GOALS:
• Improve public safety by increasing operational efficiency, visibility and availability.
• Improve public safety by maximizing fire and emergency medical service resources.
DISCUSSION:
Due to the recent 400-acre fire that occurred over the weekend in South Fontana and as part of ongoing efforts to reduce fire risk and maintain open spaces, the City seeks to secure fire brush management services through fire grazing. Fire grazing is an effective method of controlling vegetation and reducing fuel loads in fire-prone areas, thereby mitigating the risk of wildfires. Staff is requesting that the City Council award a contract to Fire Grazers, Inc. in the amount of $60,881 for brush removal in a 100ft section behind the homes in South Fontana. 8.4 acres starting behind the residences on Teaberry Court and heading south to the furthest residence on Loyola Court would be prioritized first. 25 acres from Loyola Court to Willow Drive and Citrus Avenue would be the next section addressed followed by a final section from Willow Drive and Citrus Avenue past the Nature Center and ending behind Gala Avenue.
San Bernardino County Fire contacted other providers that could provide the service during the summer season. Fire Grazers, Inc. were the only provider that was available to provide the service within the City’s time requirement to mitigate the vegetation areas that are prone to fuel fires. Fire Grazers, Inc. currently providing the same type of service for Puente Hills Habitat Preservation Authority and can accommodate the City’s critical time schedule that is required. Per the City’s Purchasing Policies and Procedures Manual, Section 3.1.5 Non-Competitive Proposal may be used when after soliciting of several vendors, competition is determined inadequate.
Additionally, the Council is asked to approve an appropriation of $60,881 to the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Fire Protection District budget to include the contract amount of $52,940 and a 15% contingency of $7,941.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The fiscal impact associated with the approval of this item is $60,881 and an appropriation of funds are requested for the FY 2024/2025 Fire Protection District budget.
MOTION:
Approve staff recommendation.