To: Board of Supervisors
From: Aviation
Agenda Section: Consent
Vote Requirement: 4/5th
SUBJECT:
title
Appropriation Transfer to Establish a Fixed Asset Line for Budget Unit 3539-170 for Purchase of New Rampmaster 5000 Gallon Model SW Refueler (4/5th Vote Required)
end
RECOMMENDATION(S):
Recommendation
That the Board of Supervisors:
1. Approve an appropriation transfer (Attachment 1) to establish a fixed asset line in fiscal year (FY) 2023-24 for the purchase of one new Rampmaster 5000 Gallon Model SW Refueler in the amount of $346,511.
Body
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
Aviation Capital Projects (3539)
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) CARES Act Grant
DISCUSSION:
The Department of Aviation is the sole provider of Jet A Fuel for commercial service and general aviation aircraft. To uphold the integrity of this vital service, it is imperative that the Department of Aviation possess operational Jet A Refueler vehicles that not only function 24 hours/7 days a week, but that also possess the ability to immediately respond to emergency callouts. The reliability and readiness of these vehicles is central to the seamless operation of Humboldt County’s air transportation network as timely refueling is crucial to maintaining flight schedules, preventing delays, and ensuring efficient operations for all users requiring this fuel at the California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport (ACV).
The Department of Aviation’s current fuel trucks, a 3000 Gallon International and 5000 Gallon Freightliner, were purchased in 2002 and 2007 respectively and are well past the end of their useful life. The 2002 International is currently serving as the primary fuel vehicle and has continued to experience reliability challenges due to its age. The 2007 Freightliner is currently inoperable due to suppliers not supporting the antiquated equipment and engine, thus leading to a shortage of replacement parts that are no longer being produced. While the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) does not specify an age limit for fuel vehicles, it does require that all equipment, including fuel trucks, used for airline fueling operations be in good working order and meet operational standards. Airlines, fuel service providers, and airports are responsible for ensuring the proper functioning of their equipment. At this time, only one of the fuel vehicles used at the California ACV Airport meets those FAA requirements.
Given the operational challenges and the growing maintenance issues experienced by our current fuel vehicles, it is imperative that the Department of Aviation acquire a new Jet A refueler. Staff followed Purchasing Policy guidelines and received three official quotes, and one verbal quote, to determine the most cost effective and highest value options. Additionally, the department did explore electric vehicle (EV) options. However, EV Jet A fuel trucks sold in the United States currently do not have the fuel capacity required to meet the daily needs of the fuel demand experienced at ACV. A summary of the quoted options is provided in the table below.
|
VENDOR |
TYPE |
QUOTE |
AVAILABILITY DATE |
YEAR MODEL |
|
Rampmaster |
Purchase |
$346,511 |
Dec 2023 |
2023 |
|
Rampmaster |
Purchase |
$365,400 |
Q1 2024 |
2024 |
|
Westmore |
Purchase |
$356,400 |
Q4 2024 |
2023 |
|
Garsite (Verbal Quote) |
Purchase |
$309,540 |
Q4 2024 |
2022 Backordered |
|
Skymark |
Purchase |
$320,950 |
Q3 2024 |
2022 Backordered |
|
International |
Lease |
$3,500/month |
Immediately |
2011 |
Though it is not the least expensive option, the Rampmaster is the only option that is currently built and ready to deliver immediately. All other quoted vehicles would not be available for delivery until third quarter (Q3) of calendar year (CY) 2024, or later. Additionally, the above-mentioned Rampmaster comes equipped with Engine Management System (EMS) Flow Control, Airlines of America (ATA)-mandated Scully system, dual over-wing nozzles, Ticket Charge System (TCS) with wireless data modem, OSHA-approved TRAM fall protection system, and Velcon Elements filter system.
Therefore, the Department of Aviation recommends that the Board of Supervisors approve an appropriation transfer to establish a fixed asset line in fiscal year (FY) 2023-24 for the purchase of the above-mentioned Rampmaster Refueler.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
|
Expenditures (3539-170) |
FY23-24 Adopted |
|
Budgeted Expenses (8986) |
$346,511 |
|
Total Expenditures |
$346,511 |
|
Funding Sources (3539170) |
FY23-24 Adopted |
|
State/Federal Funds (4565) |
$346,511 |
|
Total Funding Sources |
$346,511 |
*Projected amounts are estimates and are subject to change.
Narrative Explanation of Financial Impact:
The total cost for the purchase of one new Rampmaster 5000 Gallon Model SW Refueler is $346,511. This will be paid for using previously granted FAA CARES Act Funding that was designated for use toward the ACV Parking Lot Rehabilitation Project. The Department of Aviation requests to establish funds in Fixed Assets in the amount of $346,511 for purchase of the above-mentioned equipment. Funding for this equipment acquisition will be transferred from ACV Capital Projects (3539170), Arcata Airport Improvements (8851). If needed, at a later date the Department of Aviation will return to your Board to request a draw from the Finance Plan to fund a portion of the Parking Lot Rehabilitation Project.
STAFFING IMPACT:
There is no staffing impact associated with this item.
STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK:
This action supports your Board’s Strategic Framework priority of providing community-appropriate levels of service
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
N/A
ALTERNATIVES TO STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Your Board could choose not to authorize the purchase of one new Rampmaster 5000 Gallon Model SW Refueler. However, this alternative is not recommended as it would hinder the ability for the Department of Aviation to safely, efficiently, and reliably conduct fueling operations, thereby risking substantial disruptions to our airline and general aviation partners, and the passengers they serve.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Appropriation Transfer (3539-170)
2. Rampmaster Proposal
PREVIOUS ACTION/REFERRAL:
Board Order No.: N/A
Meeting of: N/A
File No.: N/A