HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolution 92-R-25, Authorizing the City Manager to Accept FEMAs Port Security Grant Program Award for the Purchase of a New Safety and Security Vessel (1)10/13/2025
92-R-25
A RESOLUTION
Authorizing the City Manager to Accept FEMA’s
Port Security Grant Program Award for the Purchase of a New
Safety and Security Vessel
WHEREAS, the City of Evanston (the “City”) and the Evanston Fire
Department applied for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Port
Security Grant Program for funding to purchase a multi-mission patrol vessel to support
port security and protection operations by the Evanston Fire Department (EFD) and
Evanston Police Department (EPD); and
WHEREAS, Marine 21, the City’s current rescue boat, is small in size with
an open cockpit, and limited stability, which restricts operations during adverse weather
or high wind conditions on Lake Michigan, conditions that are frequent and often high-
risk; and
WHEREAS, the enhanced vessel will increase range, payload, and deck
space, supporting the City’s ability to integrate specialized detection equipment, carry
emergency medical equipment, and provide dive operations. It would allow for modern
mission-critical systems, such as radar, GPS, FLIR thermal imaging, and multi-band
communications, that are standard for maritime public safety operations. The boat will be
built for open water and adverse weather. The platform offers an enclosed cabin, shock-
mitigating seating, and extended range, protecting personnel and civilians during long or
high-risk deployments; and
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WHEREAS, the vessel will enhance waterborne emergency response,
radiological detection, and port security capabilities along the Evanston shoreline,
including the City’s beaches, Water Plant, and Northwestern University, and in mutual
aid responses through the southern Lake Michigan region; and
WHEREAS, the upgrade of the safety and security vessel is a mission-
critical step for EFD, EPD, and the region. It addresses both immediate vulnerabilities
and long-term capability gaps, enabling Evanston to continue serving as a regional hub
for water-based emergency response and maritime threat detection.
NOW BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
EVANSTON, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS, THAT:
SECTION 1: FEMA will award the City up to $525,000 to purchase a new
safety and security vessel, which will cost approximately $700,000.
SECTION 2: The City of Evanston will cover the remaining expense of
$175,000, per the Port Security Grant Program’s Notice of Funding requirements.
SECTION 2: The City Manager is hereby authorized to direct the Fire
Department to accept the award and sign the necessary documentation.
SECTION 3: This Resolution 92-R-25 shall be in full force and effect from
and after its passage and approval in the manner provided by law.
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_______________________________
Daniel Biss, Mayor
Attest:
______________________________
Stephanie Mendoza, City Clerk
Adopted: __________________, 2025
Approved as to form:
______________________________
Alexandra B. Ruggie, Corporation Counsel
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October 13