Title
Fire Wireless Headsets and Equipment
Action
Action:
A. Approve a unit price contract to the lowest responsive bidder, Bear Communications Inc., for the purchase of wireless headsets and equipment for two years, and
B. Authorize the City Manager to renew the contract for up to three, one-year terms with possible price adjustments, and to amend the contract consistent with the purpose for which the contract was approved.
Body
Staff Resource(s):
Reginald Johnson, Fire
Kevin Gordon, Fire
Damian Owens, Fire
Explanation
§ Charlotte Fire currently uses wireless headsets in Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting trucks to enhance on-scene communications and safety during fire incidents and technical rescues. The units connect crews in the apparatus to crews on scene. This is critically important, especially when vision is limited.
§ These integrated headsets provide hearing protection for fire apparatus officers while maintaining the ability to hear and respond to on-scene communications.
§ Wireless headsets allow for safer apparatus positioning as the on-scene officer and driver can communicate more effectively while also keeping both hands free to maneuver the apparatus.
§ On April 25, 2018, The City issued an Invitation to Bid; five bids were received.
§ Bear Communications was selected as the lowest responsive bidder.
§ This purchase would allow Fire to issue a headset to approximately half of the engine companies (20 engines).
§ Estimated annual expenditures are $90,000.
Charlotte Business INClusion
No subcontracting goal is established because there are no subcontracting opportunities (Part B: Section 2.1 (a) of the Charlotte Business INClusion Policy).
Fiscal Note
Funding: 2016 Assistance to Firefighters Grant