anchor Description
This project provides for ongoing replacement of fire apparatus and Emergency Medical Service (EMS) vehicles. The regular acquisition of replacement fire apparatus is an integral component of the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) Master Plan, MCFRS Accreditation, and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1901 Annex D.
anchorEstimated Schedule
The following units are anticipated to be replaced over the six-year period: six aerial trucks, 40 EMS units (ambulances), 13 engines, two all-wheel drive brush trucks, four rescue squad/hazmat units, two tankers, one air supply unit, two boat support units, four box trucks, one medical care support unit, two medical ambulance buses, and three fleet service trucks. These are approximate quantities and may require slight adjustment as costs and departmental needs are determined on an annual basis.
anchorCost Change
Cost increase due to addition of FY29-30 to this level of effort project and cost adjustments based on updated replacement schedule and prices.
anchor Justification
The 2016 edition of the NFPA 1901 Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus advises the following: "changes, upgrades, and fine tuning to NFPA 1901, Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus, have been truly significant, especially in the area of safety. Fire departments should seriously consider the value (or risk) to firefighters of keeping fire apparatus older than 15 years in first-line service." Regular apparatus replacement is identified in the current Fire, Rescue, Emergency Medical Services, and Community Risk Reduction Master Plan as approved by the County Council. It is also a requirement of the Commission on Fire Accreditation International. Replacement fire apparatus includes enhanced safety features as well as decreased downtime for maintenance and repairs.
anchorFiscal Note
This project is funded with short-term financing and the Consolidated Fire Tax District Fund which includes Emergency Medical Service Transport (EMST) revenue. Fire Consolidated current revenue shown above reflects the outright purchase of some apparatus and required non-financeable equipment. Debt service will be paid for in the operating budget with EMST revenue as a primary funding source. FY23 supplemental in Short-Term Financing for the amount of $4,234,000.
anchorDisclosures
Expenditures will continue indefinitely.
anchorCoordination
Local Volunteer Fire and Rescue Departments.