Title
title
An Ordinance Authorizing the Donation of Surplus Fire Department Equipment to the Black Fire Brigade
..end
Introduction
overview
The Village of Oak Park's Fire Department is investing in modernizing its exercise equipment to enhance the well-being, fitness, and operational readiness of Village firefighters. As part of this equipment update, the Fire Department, in conjunction with the Fire Department's Wellness Committee, which includes both labor and management representatives, has identified a way to prolong the use of the existing exercise equipment to continue to enhance fire safety. Jointly, they agreed to donate the equipment to the Black Fire Brigade, an Illinois not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization.
end
body
Recommended Action
Adopt the ordinance.
Prior Board Action
The Board has approved ordinances for disposing of equipment as they become necessary. The Board approved equipment sales on March 24, 2026 (ORD 26-124) and February 17, 2026 (ORD 26-113), most recently.
Background
In accordance with Village policy and State law (65 ILCS 5/11-76-4), the Village may, by Ordinance, authorize the disposition of designated personal property (as opposed to real property) to dispose of vehicles and materials no longer usable to the Village.
Items on the attached “Exhibit A” will be disposed of via donation to the Black Fire Brigade. The equipment listed in Exhibit A is a candidate for disposal based on the criteria that are no longer useful to the Fire Department.
This donation reflects the Village of Oak Park’s commitment to sustainability, responsible stewardship of public resources, and support for community-based organizations that advance public service and workforce development. The Black Fire Brigade works to promote and protect the fire service while providing education, resources, recruitment, training, and employment pathways for young people interested in becoming emergency medical technicians and firefighters. Through this donation, equipment that has served the Village can continue to support training, fitness, and career development within the fire service.
Timing Considerations
Adoption at this time will allow for the timely disposal of surplus items and free up valuable space for more productive training opportunities.
Financial Impact
There is no budget impact associated with this item, as this is a donation.
Operations Impact
Removal of surplus items will allow more efficient use of Fire Department space, enabling employees to train unhindered by having to work around/store surplus equipment.
DEI Impact
The donation of these items will help strengthen the training opportunities for the current and alumni members of the Black Fire Brigade, furthering their mission to help youth enter the public safety industry.
Community Input
There has been no community input given in relation to this item.
Staff Recommendation
Adopt the ordinance.
Advantages:
• This action frees up valuable space in the Village Fire Department.
Disadvantages:
• There are no disadvantages associated with this item.
Alternatives
Alternative 1:
The Board can table the item for additional information or discussion.
Advantages:
• Board members would be presented with the additional information requested.
Disadvantages:
• Old equipment will remain in the Village Fire Department space.
Alternative 2:
The Board can vote down the item.
Advantages:
• There are no advantages associated with this item.
Disadvantages:
• Staff will need to find required storage for the Jacobs Ladder, Precor Treadmill, and Precor Elliptical.
Anticipated Future Actions
It is anticipated that the Board will consider these ordinances as they become necessary.
Prepared By: JT Terry, Fire Chief
Reviewed By: Jack Malec, Assistant to the Village Manager
Approved By: Kevin J. Jackson, Village Manager
Attachment(s):
1. Ordinance
2. Exhibit A - Equipment Photos