To: Board of Directors
From: Lewis Broschard, Chief, Contra Costa County Fire Protection District
Report Title: Contract for Firefighting Helicopter Services
?Recommendation of the County Administrator ? Recommendation of Board Committee
RECOMMENDATIONS:
APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Fire Chief, or designee, to execute a contract with A&P Helicopters, in an amount not to exceed $2,945,000 for aerial firefighting services during an approximately 180-day period commencing on or about May 1, 2026.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Budgeted. 100% CCCFPD General Operating Fund. The A&P Contract is valued at $2,745,000, and the requested authorization includes a $200,000 contingency to cover extended incidents that could exceed the contract amount. It is anticipated PG&E will be reimbursing the District $1,000,000 towards the total costs of the contract, which will reduce the net cost to the District.
BACKGROUND:
The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (District) provides all-risk emergency response services, including wildland fire suppression and prevention, across a diverse service area that includes urban, suburban, and wildland-urban interface (WUI) environments. During peak fire season, elevated temperatures, dry fuel conditions, and wind-driven events significantly increase the risk of fast-moving vegetation fires that require immediate, aggressive initial attack.
To enhance operational readiness and reduce response times, the District deploys seasonal aerial firefighting resources to supplement ground-based suppression capabilities. Rapid access to a dedicated helicopter equipped for water-dropping operations, reconnaissance, and personnel transport significantly improves the District's ability to contain wildland fires during the critical early stages, thereby reducing risk to life, property, and critical infrastructure.
Following a competitive solicitation process, the District evaluated proposals for Exclusive Use (EU) wet lease helicopter services. A&P Helicop...
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