The Leon County Commission voted unanimously Tuesday to pursue negotiations with the City of Tallahassee over fire services while simultaneously developing plans for a separate county fire department following findings that millions in potential fire service revenue went uncollected.
During the October 20 workshop, commissioners reviewed reports from two consulting firms examining the financial and operational issues surrounding the longstanding city-county fire services agreement.
County Attorney Chasity O’Steen said a review by consulting firm Benesch identified a potential revenue shortfall ranging from $15 million to $21.2 million during fiscal years 2024 and 2025.
O’Steen said collecting that revenue could have covered the $11.5 million budget increase requested by the city in 2025.
The findings raise questions about whether improved billing and collection practices could have reduced the need for controversial increases in fire service fees.
The second consulting firm, Fitch & Associates, recommended pursuing negotiations while preparing an alternative county-operated system.
Dr. Stephan Knight of Fitch & Associates described the existing agreement, originally adopted in 2009 and amended six times, as difficult to interpret and enforce. However, he indicated the identified deficiencies could be corrected through negotiations.
Commissioner Brian Welch sharply criticized the city’s handling of the dispute.
“Guys, we’re just trying to defend our taxpayers,” Welch said, according to WTXL.
Commissioners also directed further examination of whether the county suffered financial damages from the city’s management of fire service funds.
Creating a separate department could require approximately $30 million to purchase six existing city fire stations.
Commissioner Rick Minor expressed optimism about reaching an agreement with new city leadership following the November elections.
The commission is scheduled to revisit the matter November 17, potentially beginning a 90-day negotiation period.
The current city-county fire services agreement expires September 30, 2028.
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