Title
Federal LECFTF Funding for the Gainesville Police Department Helicopter Repairs (B)
Explanation
This request is for authorization of an expenditure of up to $100,000 from the Federal Law Enforcement Contraband Forfeiture Trust Fund account to facilitate the repairs to the Gainesville Police Department's helicopter.
On July 8, 1996 the City Commission approved the Inter-Agency Agreement for a Joint Aviation Unit between the Alachua County Sheriff's Office (ACSO) and the City of Gainesville's Police Department. In addition, to sharing overhead and normal operating expenses the GPD provides a pilot, observer, a helicopter and its associated costs.
On December 8, 2011 the Gainesville Police Department's helicopter suffered a forced landing on Windmeadows Blvd. because of a sudden loss of power. Consequently, the engine and other components were shipped out for inspection and repair. This was a result of the sudden stoppage of the main rotor. All of the components must be inspected for damage. The parts must be replaced prior to further inspection of the engine due to the necessity of the accessory gearbox to run the engine. The repairs for the parts in the accessory gear box are estimated to be $47,788.25. Although the insurance coverage on the helicopter parts is pro rated, there are other costs associated with the inspection and repair not covered by insurance. Additional repairs will be identified upon completion of the inspection. The maximum additional funds estimated to complete the repairs is $100,000.
Fiscal Note
Funds in the amount of $100,000 for this expenditure are available in the Federal Law Enforcement Contraband Forfeiture Trust Fund and is allowable per Federal 21 U.S.C. () 881, found in the U.S. Department of Justice "A Guide to Equitable Sharing of Federally Forfeited Property for State and Local Law Enforcement Agencies". The unreserved balance in the account is 1,052,276.00.
Recommendation
The City Commission 1) approve the appropriation of up to $100,000.00 from the Federal Law Enforcement Contraband Forfeiture Trust Fund to assist with costs of repairing the GPD helicopter; and 2) authorize the City Manager to enter into the agreement(s) and/or contract(s) necessary to complete the repairs and return the helicopter to flight status.
Alternative Recommendation A: The City Commission deny funding.