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Commission approves $1.2 million sole‑source purchase of new Pierce pumper for Safety Harbor Fire Department
Summary
The commission approved a sole‑source purchase agreement for a heavy‑duty Pierce Velocity pumper for $1,199,343, which city staff say will replace an aging 2008 engine and maintain fleet commonality; county reimbursement for foundational units and Penny for Pinellas funding were cited as budget offsets.
The Safety Harbor City Commission approved a sole‑source purchase on Jan. 21 for a heavy‑duty Pierce Velocity pumper to replace an aging engine, voting unanimously 5‑0 to authorize staff to engage a vendor for a 49–52 month delivery vehicle scheduled for delivery in 2029.
Fire Chief Andrew Hawkins told the commission the purchase would replace a 2008 engine (Engine 854) that, under National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidance, has surpassed recommended service life. Staff asked to engage 108 Fire and Safety LLC for a Pierce Velocity pumper at a cost of $1,199,343.
Hawkins cited a department apparatus‑replacement program: frontline engines are cycled at roughly seven years to reserve status, with ladder trucks replaced about every 10 years. He said maintenance and repair history shows older apparatus require rising upkeep; the 2008 engine slated for replacement had roughly $22,833 in repair and maintenance cost over the last two fiscal years.
The department stressed safety upgrades included on the new apparatus — expanded cab width, improved walking and stepping surfaces, automatic backup cameras and the HAAS (collision‑avoidance) alert system that integrates with mobile navigation and other nearby apparatus — and more fuel‑efficient components to reduce emissions.
Funding and timing: staff said the apparatus is already included in the CIP for FY28–29 and funded with Penny for Pinellas allocations; the city will book the contract against reserves as a work‑in‑process while Penny for Pinellas funds are applied when the vehicle is paid. Pinellas County reimburses a portion of foundational unit costs; staff said Safety Harbor’s reimbursement rate is 5.38% for unincorporated area coverage under the county contract.
Commission action: Commissioner moved and seconded the recommendation; the motion passed unanimously, 5‑0. Staff said Pierce’s current build lead time is 49–52 months and recommended ordering now to lock pricing and maintain the replacement schedule.
Ending: Staff will execute sole‑source procurement and coordinate financing entries with the finance department; delivery is expected in 2029 under the manufacturer’s current timeframe.
