SUBJECT:
Title
Request Approval of the Drone Replacement Program Financial Assistance Agreement between Florida Department of Law Enforcement and Marion County Fire Rescue (Budget Impact - Neutral; grant reimbursement of $75,000)
Body
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INITIATOR: |
DEPARTMENT: |
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James Banta, Fire Chief |
Fire Rescue |
DESCRIPTION/BACKGROUND:
Marion County Fire Rescue (MCFR) was awarded funding under the FY 2025-26 Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) drone replacement program, established through a $25 million legislative appropriation to assist public safety agencies in replacing noncompliant drones and purchasing new drones. The program supports compliance with Florida Statutes Section 934.50 and Florida Administrative Code Rule 60GG-2.0075, which limit governmental use to state-approved platforms.
Through this award, MCFR will receive reimbursement for three compliant unmanned aerial systems (UAS) valued at up to $25,000 each. The new equipment will expand the department’s UAS program from one existing drone to four total - one additional unit for the hazardous materials team and two assigned to the technical rescue/urban search and rescue team. These resources will enhance capabilities for hazardous materials response, wide-area search, disaster assessment, and aerial situational awareness.
All purchases will comply with state and county procurement policies, and the project period runs through June 30, 2026.
BUDGET/IMPACT:
Neutral; grant reimbursement of $75,000.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Recommended action
Motion to approve the Drone Replacement Program Financial Assistance Agreement between Florida Department of Law Enforcement and Marion County Fire Rescue.
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