Rate hike proposed for fire protection assessments

As Sarasota County Emergency Services develops its budget request for fiscal year 2024, the department invites the public to learn about its plans to increase assessments on residential and commercial structures. The department's proposed budget includes recommendations for a number of public safety enhancements including improvements to fire stations, staffing, equipment and technology along with maintaining reserves to address disasters. 

The 2024 assessment includes a recommended a hike of 15%. This means an increase of:

• $2.42 monthly for the average 2,500-square-foot home
• $2.50 monthly for the average 1,600-square-foot multifamily home
• $24.50 per month for the average 10,000-square-foot commercial property

Each year, fire assessment rates and ad valorem taxes are evaluated as part of the budgetary process. The department is not recommending any increases in the EMS ad valorem.

Residents may attend any or all of the following public meetings to learn more about the proposed changes to fire assessment rates, the methodology used, and provide comments or ask questions. Meetings are planned to last one hour, beginning at 6 p.m. on:

• Tuesday, May 9: Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota Public Library, 2801 Newtown Blvd., Sarasota
• Tuesday, May 16: Gulf Gate Public Library, 7112 Curtiss Ave., Sarasota
• Thursday, May 18: William H. Jervey, Jr. Venice Public Library, 300 Nokomis Ave. S., Venice

Fire assessments are the primary funding mechanism for 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 only. 

A public hearing on the new assessments before the Sarasota County Commission is scheduled for May 24 to consider adopting an updated methodology and rates for the 2024 budget year. Final budget adoption is scheduled for Sept. 11.