The approved Fire Operational Equipment 2023 Capital Budget includes $56,600 for purchase of extrication equipment.  We carry a full complement of specialty vehicle extrication equipment on our two squads and a combination tool on our three fire engines.  These are the tools that allow us to gain access to a patient that is trapped in a vehicle after an accident.  Our current battery-operated hydraulic Hurst extrication equipment is ten years old and in need of replacement.  We developed a replacement plan to split the purchase over two years.

Fire department personnel evaluated new options Hurst had to offer and trialed a new manufactures extrication equipment by Genesis.  Our personnel were able to use this equipment in training evolutions and were impressed with the Genesis tools.  The tool is powered by a generic Milwaukee tool battery available at any home improvement center allowing for ease of replacement and lower cost compared to the Hurst brand proprietary battery system.  Personnel liked the ergonomics of operations and the two-stage pump that operates faster initially but also offers the force need to complete cuts and spreading operations.  Most of our neighboring towns use Genesis extrication equipment and are happy with its performance.

COMPANY                              2023 PURCHASE

Hurst                                                   $59,110

Genesis                                                $56,660

Funding for this purchase is in the Capital Projects Fund Account No.  401-3501-572.50-15 in the amount of $56,600.

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that the Village Board waive competitive bidding requirements and approve the purchase of the Genesis extrication equipment for a total cost of $56,660 from Equipment Management Company.  This recommendation is based on the total price and on tool performance under training conditions.