CITY OF LAUDERDALE LAKES
Agenda Cover Page

Fiscal Impact:  No                           Contract Requirement:   No

DISCUSSION REGARDING SUBMISSION OF A GRANT APPLICATION TO THE STAFFING FOR ADEQUATE FIRE AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE (SAFER) GRANT PROGRAM

This is a discussion regarding the submission of an application to the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant Program. The grant provides federal funding to assist fire departments with hiring, recruitment, and retention initiatives to ensure adequate staffing levels and improve emergency response capabilities.

Background:

SAFER Grant Overview

• Federal grant administered by FEMA
• Supports firefighter staffing through salary and benefit coverage
• Typically funds 100% of costs for new personnel over a 3-year period
• No local match for salaries required

Current Challenge

• The City operates 2 rescue trucks
• Emergency call volume is increasing due to population and development growth
• Frequent simultaneous calls lead to coverage gaps and delayed response times
• Equipment wear and service downtime affect readiness

Why a Third Rescue Truck is Necessary

• Ensures proper deployment of additional SAFER-funded personnel
• Improves response coverage across the city
• Adds operational redundancy for peak times and maintenance
• Supports future development zones and rising demand
• Helps preserve or improve the City's ISO rating

Preliminary Cost Estimate

• New Rescue Truck: $350,000 – $450,000
• Lead time: 12–18 months
• Funding options (to be explored):
• Capital improvement plan
• Equipment grant support
• Phased acquisition strategy

Next Steps

• Gather Commission input on SAFER grant pursuit and rescue truck needs
• Conduct further operational and budget analysis as needed
• If supported and feasible, prepare a full proposal for grant application
• If timing or data are not aligned, defer application to a future grant cycle

Key Consideration for Commission

Does the Commission support moving forward with SAFER Grant planning, understanding that additional staffing will require a third rescue truck?

Funding Source:
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Fiscal Impact:

Sponsor Name/Department:   Heidi Brocks, Budget Officer; Chief Hackett, BSO

Meeting Date:   6/8/2026