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Drone Replacement Program Financial Assistance Agreement With State Department of Law Enforcement for Hernando County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services and Associated Budget Resolution
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BRIEF OVERVIEW
In 2019, Hernando County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services (HCFR) received drones through a program with the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI). Since that time, the rules, regulations, and security standards for the use of drones by governmental entities were revised by Florida Statute Sec. 934.50 which prohibited drones manufactured by foreign countries, among other revisions.
The General Appropriations Act, 2023 Legislature, Section 123 provides approximately $25,000 in nonrecurring funds to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) for the Drone Replacement Program established in Chapter 2023-240, Laws of Florida. See also Florida Statute Sec. 934.50(7), which implements the General Appropriations Act.
The attached agreement allows for HCFR to receive $75,000 ($25,000 each) to replace three noncompliant drones through the Drone Replacement Program. No matching funds are required.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
A budget resolution for $75,000 is attached for the following accounts:
Revenue:
Fund: 1661 - HC Fire Rescue - Fire, Department: 32208 - HCFR Drone Replace PGM, Account: 3342008 - GRT-FDLE
Expense:
Fund: 1661 - HC Fire Rescue-Fire, Department: 32208 - HCFR-Drone Replace PGM, Account: 5606401 - Equipment $5,000 or more
LEGAL NOTE
The Board has authority to act on this matter pursuant to Chapter 125, Florida Statutes.
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Board approve and authorize the Chairman’s signature on the attached Drone Replacement Program Financial Assistance Agreement.
It is further recommended that the Board approve and authorize the Chairman’s signature on the attached associated budget resolution.