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STRATEGIC OUTCOMES |
ACTION |
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Department: |
☒ Safe & Prosperous |
☒ Motion |
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Finance |
☐ Active & Appealing |
☐ Resolution |
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☐ Respected & Responsible |
☐ Ordinance - Introduction |
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Division: |
☒ Connected & Engaged |
☐ Ordinance - Adoption |
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Procurement |
☐ Unique & Creative |
☐ Public Hearing |
TITLE:
title
Sole Source: Tethered Unmanned Aerial System
end
SUMMARY RECOMMENDATION:
Summary Recommendation
Authorize the purchase of two Tethered Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), at a total cost of $161,904.65 to: Fotokite US, LLC., Boulder, Colorado (Fire Department-GNT-26-080) (John Louser/Robin R. Wilson)
end
STRATEGIC OUTCOME:
Authorization of this purchase furthers the City’s Council’s strategic outcomes of Safe and Prosperous, and Connected and Engaged by utilizing grant funding to obtain emergency response equipment and technology which enhances the protection of lives, property and the environment along the Colorado River.
REPORT:
The City of Yuma Fire Department continually seeks innovative solutions to improve emergency response and public safety. Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) have become valuable tools for providing real-time aerial intelligence during incidents. However, traditional free-flying drones require certified pilots and are subject to stringent regulatory constraints, which can limit their deployment in time-sensitive situations. Fotokite's actively tethered UAS offer a unique solution by providing autonomous flight capabilities without the need for piloting. These systems are recognized by aviation authorities as safer alternatives to non-tethered drones and are exempt from certain Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, including Part 107 and Certificate of Authorization (COA) requirements. This exemption allows for more rapid and flexible deployment during emergencies.
Implementing Fotokite's actively tethered UAS will provide YFD with significant advancements in situational awareness and operational efficiency. Key benefits of this system include:
• Autonomous Operation: The system launches, hovers, and lands with a single button press,
requiring no piloting and allowing personnel to focus on critical tasks.
• Extended Flight Duration: Powered through a tether connected to the ground station, the UAS
can operate continuously for over 24 hours, ensuring persistent aerial coverage during
prolonged incidents.
• Real-Time Thermal and Visual Imaging: Equipped with advanced wide/zoom and thermal
cameras, the system provides simultaneous video streams, enhancing the ability to assess
situations and make informed decisions.
• All-Weather Reliability: With an IP55 rating, the UAS is designed to operate reliably in various
weather conditions, including rain, snow, and wind, ensuring availability when needed most.
• Regulatory Compliance: The tethered design and autonomous operation classify the system
under FAA exemptions, reducing regulatory burdens and expediting deployment during emergencies.
FISCAL REQUIREMENTS:
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CITY FUNDS: |
$ 0.00
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BUDGETED: |
$161,904.65
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STATE FUNDS: |
$161,904.65
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AVAILABLE TO TRANSFER: |
$ 0.00
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FEDERAL FUNDS: |
$ 0.00
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IN CONTINGENCY: |
$ 0.00
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OTHER SOURCES: |
$ 0.00
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FUNDING: ACCOUNT/FUND #/CIP
Federal Fire Grants-Fire-Suppression-Rescue Watercraft and Equipment.
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TOTAL |
$161,904.65
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FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT:
Sufficient budget capacity is available in the City Council FY 2026 approved budget to execute this purchase. No city taxes are being used, this purchase is fully funded by the Arizona State Parks & Trails State Lake Improvement Fund (SLIF).
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS NOT ATTACHED TO THE CITY COUNCIL ACTION FORM THAT ARE ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK:
None
IF CITY COUNCIL ACTION INCLUDES A CONTRACT, LEASE OR AGREEMENT, WHO WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ROUTING THE DOCUMENT FOR SIGNATURE AFTER CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL?
☐ Department
☐ City Clerk’s Office
☐ Document to be recorded
☐ Document to be codified
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Acting City Administrator: |
Date: |
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John D. Simonton |
09/05/2025 |
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Reviewed by City Attorney: |
Date: |
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Richard W. Files |
09/04/2025 |