Agenda Item Wording:
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Consideration of state grant - Authorize the Visalia Police Department to apply for the State Homeland Security Grant Program for up to $500,000 towards the purchase of a replacement vehicle for the Central Valley Regional Bomb Squad.
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Deadline for Action: 12/4/2023
Submitting Department: Police Department
Contact Name and Phone Number:
Chief Jason Salazar, ext. 4215, jason.salazar@visalia.city; Financial Analyst Liz Ybarra, ext. 4250, liz.ybarra@visalia.city
Department Recommendation:
Authorize the Visalia Police Department to apply for the State Homeland Security Grant (SHLSG) for up to $500,000 towards the purchase of a replacement vehicle for the Central Valley Regional Bomb Squad as a sub-recipient through Tulare County and submit the application by December 8, 2023. The Grant is effective from September 2024 through August 2026.
Summary:
The vehicle used by the Central Valley Regional Bomb Squad is in need of replacement due to the age of the vehicle, demands of the team, and recurring mechanical issues. A new vehicle specifically designed for the needs of a modern bomb squad costs an average of $400,000 to $700,000. Staff have researched numerous methods to fund the purchase of a bomb squad vehicle and discovered that those options are limited although the State Homeland Security Grant Program (SHSGP) could provide funding for up to $500,000. This type of purchase meets the requirements of the SHSGP focus areas and serves as a truly regional project.
Background Discussion:
The Central Valley Regional Bomb Squad is an FBI certified Level 3 bomb squad. To meet the certification requirements of a Level 3 bomb squad, the team must be capable of handling small to moderate incidents. The team must also consist of at minimum two fully certified bomb technicians who have successfully completed a six-week Hazardous Devices school, six-week Weapons of Mass Destruct...
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