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Waukegan approves lease for ZOLL cardiac monitors; fire officials say lease saves money and covers service

5951646 · October 15, 2025

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Summary

The Finance Committee authorized a multi-year lease with ZOLL for cardiac monitors, explained as a cost-saving approach that covers equipment, service and midterm upgrades; aldermen asked for count and price context.

The Waukegan Finance and Purchasing Committee approved a resolution on July 21 authorizing the Fire Department to enter a lease with ZOLL for cardiac monitors, consisting of annual payments cited in committee materials and funding from the department’s equipment line (GL 10302025472).

Staff and the fire department explained the city’s current monitors are seven years old and reaching the end of their service life. Committee discussion clarified the immediate purchase covers six monitors for the city's ambulances and that the contract anticipates another round of monitors in roughly five years, which staff described as effectively covering 12 units over the lease term due to midterm technology upgrades.

Committee members asked how the lease compares with purchase. Fire staff said an existing monitor model costs about $56,000 to buy now; upcoming models are projected to cost $60,000 to $65,000. Leasing the monitors, the department said, spreads cost, includes the service contract and IT fees, and yields projected savings of about $134,000 over the next 10 years when service and replacement are considered. One committee member summarized the figures aloud: “So it is 6 and then at 5 years we get another round of 6 monitors.”

Aldermen voted in favor on a roll call (Aldermen Newsom, Florian, Hayes and Donenworth recorded Aye). The department said the lease also covers cables and annual wear-and-tear items. Staff characterized leasing as cost-effective given rapid technological change and recurring service needs.

Action details: motion to approve the lease agreement with ZOLL for cardiac monitors (motion by Alderman Florian; second by Alderman Hayes). Committee materials cited projected per-installment payments; staff provided a total 10-year savings projection of $134,000 compared with purchase and additional service coverage included in the lease.