SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Authorize a purchase order to Municipal Emergency Services (MES) of Pinellas Park, FL, for the purchase of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and related add-ons in an amount not to exceed $2,181,450.55, pursuant to Section 2.563(1)(c), Piggyback, 2.563(1)(a), Single Source, and Section 2.563(1)(d), Non-Competitive Purchase (Impractical); authorize lease purchase under the City’s Master Lease Purchase Agreement, or internal financing via an inter-fund loan from the Capital Improvement Fund, whichever is deemed to be in the City’s best interests; and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
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SUMMARY:
The Air-Pak X3 Pro SCBA selected for purchase meets the most recent NFPA 1981 standard (2018 Edition). These units will replace equipment originally purchased in 2015 that has been periodically upgraded to keep pace with evolving safety requirements. The manufacturer offers a comprehensive “bumper-to-bumper” warranty for the life of the equipment at no additional cost, covering the backframe and harness, pneumatics, electronics, facepiece, and cylinder.
The department anticipates purchasing 110 air packs in the coming weeks. Because the new gear is not compatible with the department’s existing inventory of cylinders, the purchase includes supporting components such as replacement cylinders, hoses, facepieces, and adapters. The quote also includes two compressors and a Respirator Fit Testing System with related accessories. The department’s current fit testing system is more than 10 years old, is no longer manufactured, and will no longer be serviced after next year.
Of the total amount requested, $1,890,250.11 is included under the piggyback of Lake County Contract 22-730G, Fire Equipment, Supplies, and Services, which is valid through July 31, 2027. In addition to the piggyback pricing, MES has provided further discounts on several items. An additional $202,397.00 for the RevolveAir system is single source as MES is the sole authorized provider in North America for this RevolveAir system. The remaining $88,803.44 is considered impractical to bid and includes training, shipping, and replacement parts for the SCBA gear.
A portion of the project cost will be reimbursed by Pinellas County, as the equipment supports service to unincorporated residents within the Clearwater Fire District.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
This purchase was budgeted in fiscal 2026, capital project 316-L2601, Replace and Upgrade Air Packs, planned for internal financing. Future “debt payments” will be budgeted in the Fire Department’s operating budget as part of the annual budget process. The operating budget of the Fire Department is funded by General Fund Revenues.
USE OF RESERVE FUNDS:
NA
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Foster safe and healthy communities through first-class public safety and emergency response services.
