The Flagler Beach City Commission voted unanimously Tuesday to buy three new 45-kilowatt generators from Generac Power Systems Inc. under an existing cooperative contract, a purchase city staff said is needed because older, FEMA-provided generator units are failing.

Public-works staff explained the city currently has 10 portable generator units, five of which are out of service, and that the older units purchased in 2018 have recurring problems — particularly failing voltage regulators — and are reaching end of life. Staff said replacement or major repairs for the older units were estimated at $8,500 to $11,000 per unit for the voltage-regulator/monitor fixes and that the depreciated units are no longer supported by the manufacturer in the same configuration.

“FEMA no longer uses these because of the issues that these things have,” the maintenance supervisor said. Staff recommended three new units to supplement the currently serviceable fleet and to reduce reliance on rentals during emergencies.

Commissioners asked about lending the city’s portable generators to neighboring agencies; Commissioner Bellheimer said units are sometimes loaned to county agencies and event operators and suggested the city consider leasing rather than loaning if outside use becomes routine. Staff said loaned units are checked in and out and have not returned in poor condition.

The resolution authorizing the purchase (Resolution 2025-64) passed 5–0. A member of the public asked about disposal or resale of the old units; staff replied the city intends to retain serviceable units and evaluate disposition of nonfunctional equipment later.