SARASOTA COUNTY – Sarasota County invites the public to learn about the updated fire assessment methodology process, and proposed rates for Fiscal Year 2024. To keep pace with the growing demand for fire services to residential and non-residential locations, the county continually pursues areas of enhancements in the level of emergency services provided by the fire department. Each year, fire assessment rates and ad valorem taxes are evaluated as part of the budgetary process to align with the annual funding of fire protection services for our community. The department’s proposed 2024 budget includes recommendations for several public safety enhancements, including additional staffing, construction of a new fire station, renovation of two existing fire stations, advancements in technology and a thorough review of service delivery. These public safety enhancements require adjustments to the fire assessment methodology and an increase of approximately: $2.81 per month for an average 2,500 square-foot home. $3.89 per month for an average 1,600 square-foot multi-family residence.$21.17 per month for an average 10,000 square-foot non-residential building. The department is not recommending any increases in the EMS ad valorem that provides for the emergency medical services provided by the county. Residents may attend any or all the following public meetings to learn more about the changes to fire assessment rates, the methodology used, and provide comments or ask questions. Meetings are open to the public and planned to last one hour, beginning at 5:30 p.m., on the following dates: Aug. 28: William H. Jervey, Jr. Venice Public Library, 300 Nokomis Ave. S., Venice.Aug. 30: Gulf Gate Public Library, 7112 Curtiss Ave., Sarasota.Aug. 31: Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota Public Library, 2801 Newtown Blvd., Sarasota. Fire assessments are the primary funding mechanism for the provision of fire protection services in unincorporated areas of Sarasota County and the City of Sarasota. Fire assessment fees are based on the square footage of a building and charges are imposed against real property. The Sarasota County Board of County Commissioners will vote on the final fire assessment rates for Fiscal Year 2024 on Sept. 11, 2023. For more information, call 311 or visit scgov.net/firefees. |