The City of Tacoma is expected to partner with the Port of Tacoma to purchase a boat to conduct three security patrols per week on and around Commencement Bay and the tide flats by next March, according to actions taken recently by both government bodies.
Tacoma City Council is scheduled to vote on a resolution to authorize the city and the port to purchase the 32-foot Firestorm 30 aluminum boat (pictured) manufactured by Metal Craft Marine. The boat would join two other vessels in the fire department’s fleet. One of the boats is out of commission.
The vessel costs approximately $665,000. The city will spend $180,000, the port will spend $121,000, and the federal Department of Homeland Security will provide a $364,000 grant. The boat will be stationed beneath the Murray Morgan Bridge.
On Sept. 23, the port commission approved an interlocal agreement with the city. City Council’s public safety, human services, and education committee recommended the full council approve a resolution authorizing the purchase and partnership. The full council is scheduled to vote on the matter Oct. 19.
