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Discussion Regarding Potential Funding for Hernando County Fire and Emergency Services
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BRIEF OVERVIEW
In July 2023, Raftellis Financial Consultants, Inc., (Raftelis) a financial consulting firm, presented a study to the Board for Municipal Service Benefit Unit (MSBU) for fire assessment rates. Raftellis presented options for utilizing general obligation (GO) funds or MSBU funding only for capital improvements. This study cost was $77,453. During their study, it was found that the usage of services had not been updated in over ten (10) years and their distribution of usage percentages reflected updated information. The results of the study determined a 28% increase was needed for the FY 24 budget. An increase to cover current operating expenses was approved. The Board directed Hernando County Fire and Emergency Services to conduct a new study in 2024 with an alternative methodology.
In July 2024, Benesch Consulting firm, presented a new methodology to the Board utilizing 30% use of service plus 70% available for service. They also proposed separating the industrial category into a separate category and re-allocating vacant property into two classifications (10 acres and under and over 10 acres). The cost of this study was $52,204. This methodology was not approved. Funding was approved to cover current operating expenses based on the 2023 Raftellis study for FY 25.
In fiscal year 2026, a new fire station on Spring Lake Highway which will require the hiring of twenty-one (21) personnel to staff. As the County grows and the utilization of fire and EMS services increase, Hernando County Fire and Emergency Services is anticipating adding new fire stations which will include apparatus and personnel. Each additional fire station will increase the budget $3.5 million in operating expenses (not including the construction and apparatus costs).
Hernando County Fire and Emergency Services is asking for direction from the Board for funding...
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