TO: Honorable Mayor & Members of the North Port Commission
FROM: A. Jerome Fletcher II, ICMA-CM, MPA, City Manager
TITLE: Approve the Application to Sarasota County’s Community Development Block Grant Program in the Amount up to $800,000 for Two High-Water Rescue Vehicles and Authorize the City Manager or the Mayor, as Applicable Under the City Charter, to Execute all Funding Documents After Legal Review, Should the Grant be Awarded to the City.
Recommended Action
Approve the Application to Sarasota County’s Community Development Block Grant Program in the amount up to $800,000 for Two High-Water Rescue Vehicles and authorize the City Manager or the Mayor, as applicable under the City Charter, to execute all funding documents after legal review, should the grant be awarded to the City.
Background Information
The purpose of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds is to create and improve communities by providing housing, economic opportunities, and community services. CDBG funds are primarily used to benefit low- and moderate-income residents. CDBG funds originate with U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and are managed by Sarasota County and then passed through to municipalities within the County. Under 24 CFR 570.201(s), fire protection equipment is considered to be an integral part of a public facility and therefore eligible for CDBG funding.
The North Port Fire Rescue Department is requesting funding for the purchase of two high-water rescue vehicles (HWRV’s). A HWRV is a specialized emergency response unit designed to operate in floods and other extreme weather conditions. These vehicles are equipped with advanced features that allow first responders to safely navigate submerged or hazardous terrains, ensuring effective rescue operations and disaster management.
This is a reimbursable grant, meaning the City will spend funds first and then request reimbursement from the granting agency. The grant application deadline was Tuesday, April 8, 2025. Notification of the grant award is expected in late summer 2025.
If awarded, the Contract will be reviewed by the Interim City Attorney to ensure that it is legally correct as to form.
Strategic Plan
Safe Community
Financial Impact
The total project cost is estimated at up to $800,000 for the purchase of two HWRVs. The potential grant award is also up to $800,000, with no local matching funds required under the program guidelines. However, the County has preliminarily indicated that the final award amount may be lower and may partially fund one vehicle. If the grant is awarded, a budget amendment will be necessary to cover the initial outlay. Sufficient matching funds, if needed, are available in account 323-2222-522.64-00. Ongoing maintenance will be handled by the Fleet Division of the Department of Public Works and incorporated into the Fire Rescue Department’s annual operating budget.
Procurement
Procurement Code, policies and procedures will be followed when the purchases are made.
Attachments:
1. CDBG High-Water Rescue Vehicle Application
Prepared by: Michael J. Davey, PhD, Grants Coordinator
Department Director: A. Jerome Fletcher II, ICMA-CM, MPA, City Manager