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RESOLUTION NO. 2014-242 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA ACCEPTING $179,239 FROM THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY AND APPROPRIATING SAID FUNDS TO THE FEDERAL GRANTS FUND FOR THE STATE HOMELAND SECURITY PROGRAM (4/5 VOTE REQUIRED)
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RECOMMENDED ACTION
Recommended Action
Council adopt the resolution.
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SUMMARY
The San Diego County Office of Emergency Services, who administers the State Homeland Security Program (SHSP), has notified the City of the fiscal year 2014 SHSP award in the amount of $179,239. The State Homeland Security Program is designed to improve domestic terrorism preparedness of state and local governments by addressing equipment, training, exercises and planning needs.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This proposed activity has been reviewed for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and it has been determined that the activity is not a "Project" as defined under Section 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines because it will not result in a physical change in the environment; therefore, pursuant to Section 15060(c)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines, the activity is not subject to CEQA. Thus, no environmental review is necessary.
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
Not Applicable.
DISCUSSION
The fiscal year 2014 State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) provides funding for the continued development of readiness and operational response capacity of emergency first responder personnel. Funds allocated by the fiscal year 2014 SHSP will allow the Police and Fire Departments to purchase equipment that will complement existing equipment configurations that were purchased with previous Homeland Security funds, as well as enhance the City's Emergency Operations Center (EOC). SHSP grant administrators from the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) have approved the expenditure plan of equipment, planning and training needs of the City. The spending plan was submitted in advance of funding approval in accordance with grant requirements. Grant funds are restricted in how they can be spent and cannot supplant normal budgetary items for the City. The specific spending plan is as follows:
Equipment
The fiscal year 2014 SHSP funds will purchase equipment in the amount of $153,239 that will be used by the City's first responders and EOC personnel. Equipment funds have been allocated to purchase portable radios for the Police Department that complement an existing configuration of radio equipment and maintain regional communications interoperability. The Fire Department will purchase structural fire-fighting protective garments used by emergency first responders. Additionally, computers and printers will be purchased for the City's Emergency Operations Center and upgrades will be made to the EOC interactive digital display board.
Emergency Services Coordinator
SHSP funds in the amount of $26,000 will also be used for a portion of the personnel costs of the Emergency Services Coordinator. Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) funds have already been identified for the remaining costs of the Emergency Services Coordinator. This position will work on improvements and updates to local emergency plans to coincide with the County's plans, as well as ensure that EOC personnel are ready and prepared when a disaster strikes. The Emergency Services Coordinator will also organize and coordinate the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) during emergency situations.
DECISION-MAKER CONFLICT
Staff has reviewed the decision contemplated by this action and has determined that it is not site specific and consequently the 500-foot rule found in California Code of Regulations section 18704.2(a)(1) is not applicable to this decision. Staff is not independently aware, nor has staff been informed by any City Councilmember, of any other fact that may constitute a basis for a decision maker conflict of interest in this matter.
LINK TO STRATEGIC GOALS
The City's Strategic Plan has five major goals: Operational Excellence, Economic Vitality, Healthy Community, Strong and Secure Neighborhoods and a Connected Community. This resolution supports the goal of Strong and Secure Neighborhoods by enhancing the readiness and operational response capacity of emergency first responder personnel.
CURRENT YEAR FISCAL IMPACT
Approval of this resolution will result in a one-time appropriation of $153,239 to supplies and services and $26,000 to the personnel category of the Federal Grants Fund. The funding from the U.S Department of Homeland Security will completely offset these costs. Therefore, there is no net fiscal impact to the City.
ONGOING FISCAL IMPACT
There is no ongoing fiscal impact for accepting these grant funds.
ATTACHMENTS
None.
Staff Contact: Jonathan Alegre