CITY OF LAUDERDALE LAKES
Agenda Cover Page

Fiscal Impact:  Yes                Contract Requirement:   No

RESOLUTION 2026-066 AUTHORIZING THE ACTING CITY MANAGER TO APPLY TO THE FY 2025 ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTER GRANT (AFG) PROGRAM THROUGH THE FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY (FEMA)

This is a resolution regarding the FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) which is a competitive federal program that provides funding to fire departments and EMS agencies to improve emergency response capabilities, safety, and effectiveness. It can be used to purchase fire apparatus, EMS equipment, PPE, training, and related resources.

Background:

At the direction of the City Commission during the June 8, 2026 workshop, the City submitted an application under the FY 2025 FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. The application was submitted in conjunction with the FY 2025 SAFER Hiring Activity Grant application to support coordinated improvements in staffing and operational capacity.

The AFG application seeks funding for two capital items: a new rescue power stretcher and a potential additional rescue truck. These resources are intended to support increased service demand, improve emergency response capabilities, and ensure adequate apparatus availability should SAFER-funded staffing be awarded.

Current Challenge

The Fire Department currently operates two rescue trucks. Continued population growth, increased call volume, and a rise in simultaneous incidents have placed additional strain on existing apparatus. Routine maintenance and equipment rotation further reduce unit availability, which can impact response times and overall operational readiness.

Need for Additional Rescue Capacity:

If awarded SAFER funding, the addition of firefighter staffing would increase the need for sufficient apparatus capacity. A third rescue truck would help ensure effective deployment of personnel and maintain reliable service delivery. Key benefits include:

• Supporting deployment of SAFER-funded personnel, if awarded
• Improving emergency response coverage throughout the City
• Providing redundancy during peak demand and maintenance cycles
• Addressing service demands associated with continued growth and development
• Supporting the City’s ability to maintain or improve ISO rating

Funding Source:

Fire Rescue Fund 

General Fund

Requested Funding Items (AFG Application):

• Rescue Truck (estimated cost: ~$650,000)
• Power Stretcher (estimated cost: ~$40,000)
• If awarded, the AFG program would offset a significant portion of eligible costs; however, the City may be responsible for a local match of 10% and any costs not covered by the grant.
• Future capital funding sources may include the Capital Improvement Program (CIP), grant match reserves, or other financing mechanisms.

Sponsor Name/Department:   Venice Howard, Acting City Manager; Chief Charles Hackett, BSO; Heidi Brocks, Budget Officer

Meeting Date:   6/23/2026