2026_Ballistic_Vests_Project_Proposal_02.26.2026.rev.pdf

This is a project proposal dated February 26, 2026, for the Santa Monica Fire Department's ballistic vest procurement initiative. The proposal outlines the equipping of 42 new personnel—30 ambulance operators and 12 fire fighter recruits—with complete ballistic protection systems. The procurement includes plate carriers (FirstSpear AAC Frog Plate Carrier with Trelleborg Cummerbund), rifle plates (ArmorBros Level III 10x12 with 10-year warranty), and custom laser-cut Santa Monica Fire patches. The proposal specifies quantities of 42 plate carriers at $559.00 per unit, 84 rifle plates at $299.00 per unit, and 75 patches at $38.40 per unit, with 33 additional patches to be added to the department's equipment cache.

The total project cost is $57,007.46, comprising a subtotal of $51,474.00 in equipment costs plus $5,533.46 in estimated sales tax. Shipping costs are noted as to be determined. The quotation was prepared by Joe Ventrone, Fire Equipment Specialist for the Santa Monica Fire Department. This proposal aligns with the department's broader initiative to procure ballistic helmets, plate carriers, and protective plates to support the safety of Tactical Firefighter Paramedics, firefighters, ambulance operators, and overhead staff.