TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: Bernard Molloy, Fire Chief
PREPARED BY: Dave Perez, Division Chief - Fire
SUBJECT:
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Approve a Contract with Capital Construction, Inc. for Replacement of the Emergency Generator at Fire Station 3
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RECOMMENDATION
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Approve a Public Works Contract with Capital Construction, Inc. in the amount of $112,115, for the replacement of the emergency generator at Fire Station 3.
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PRIOR ACTION/VOTE
On June 6, 2023, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 23-219, approving the Operating Budget for Fiscal Years 2023/24 and 2024/25 (Operating
Budget) (Vote: 4-0-1).
CITY COUNCIL GOAL
Plan, program and create infrastructure development.
BACKGROUND
Fire stations rely on electrical power to operate essential systems like communications, emergency alerts, and security features, such as automatic doors and gates, which allow vehicles to enter and exit the station. In the absence of an electrical power supply, a fire facility would be deemed non-operational and uninhabitable, subsequently leaving the primary response area underserved by fire public safety.
California law requires fire stations to be equipped with emergency generators to ensure continuity of service during power outages. Assembly Bill 944 mandates that all fire stations have an alternative power source capable of supporting full operations for a minimum of 96 hours during any power outage.
Murrieta Fire Station 3, located at 39985 Whitewood Road, has been a key facility in the City’s fire protection services since its dedication on November 1, 1992. The station’s current emergency generator is the original unit installed during construction. Since that time, regulatory standards governing emergency generators have evolved significantly. State and federal agencies, including the California Air Resources Board (CARB), the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), have implemented more stringent requirements related to emissions, fuel efficiency, and environmental impact. As a result, the existing generator no longer meets current compliance standards and presents increasing maintenance and reliability challenges.
Replacing the emergency generator at Fire Station 3 provides substantial benefits. A modern system will ensure compliance with AB 944 and CARB regulations, improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and enhance overall system reliability during emergencies. New generators are designed for long-term use, deliver cleaner performance, and are better suited to meet the operational demands of today’s fire service.
In accordance with the City’s procurement policy, Murrieta Fire & Rescue (MFR) completed an informal competitive bidding process and obtained three quotes from qualified vendors for the purchase and installation of a replacement generator. After reviewing technical specifications, warranties, installation schedules, and cost, staff recommends awarding the project to Capital Construction as the most responsive and responsible bidder.
FISCAL IMPACT
The total fiscal impact for the replacement of the emergency generator at Fire Station 3 is $112,115. The Fire Department has approved funds in the Fiscal Year 2024/25 Measure T Fund General Ledger account 1113520-71030 to fully cover the cost of this expenditure.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Public Works Contract with Capital Construction