Sanibel fire board OKs budget, millage rate
The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District’s commission recently adopted the final millage rate and budget for fiscal year 2024-25 at its second and final budget hearing, as well as held its monthly meeting.
On Sept. 18, the commissioners voted unanimously 3-0 to approve an operating rate of 1.3915 mills, which is equal to the rolled-back rate and does not exceed it, meaning no tax increase for residents.
The adopted 1.3915 will generate $6,485,116 in ad valorem revenue for the district.
The board also voted 3-0 to approve a final budget of $27,582,065 for fiscal year 2024-25.
The Lee County Property Appraiser’s Office has certified that the gross taxable value for operating purposes not exempt from taxation in Lee County to the district as $4,660,521,567.
Prior to the voting, Fire Chief Kevin Barbot reiterated that the proposed millage rate was the same as the rolled-back rate and it, as well as the proposed budget, were as agreed upon at the first hearing.
Commissioner Bruce Cochrane explained that the district was able to go with the rolled-back rate thanks to state and federal funds that the district received for some of its biggest expenses, including the rebuilding of Station 172 on Sanibel-Captiva Road and the revenue losses from Hurricane Ian.
“Without their help, it would have been a completely different situation,” he said.
Cochrane added that using the rolled-back will ease the burden on taxpayers as recovery continues.
“We’re very lucky to be able to do this and very happy to be able to do it,” he said.
MONTHLY MEETING
Before the final budget hearing, the commission held its monthly meeting.
The commissioners voted 3-0 to approve a resolution entering into a funding agreement with the state for the $2.1 million in appropriations that the district received for the reconstruction of Station 172.
Also at the meeting, the commission voted 3-0 on a resolution to purchase a Can AM Defender Max HD-10 for about $33,735 to replace the current utility vehicle — a 2015 John Deere Gator HPX.
Prior to the vote, Barbot explained that staff received three quotes and is proposing approval of the lowest bid. He noted that the district has wanted to replace the utility vehicle for the last decade.
“We’re hoping this improves our beach rescues,” Barbot said, adding that it is a necessary asset.
Also at the meeting, the commissioners voted 3-0 to approve a resolution entering into an interlocal agreement with the city of Sanibel to waive certain fees relating to the new construction, reconstruction, repair and demolition of buildings and facilities.
IN OTHER MEETING NEWS
– Barbot reported that Lee County awarded the district $9.1 million through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Community Development Block Grant — Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program for the rebuilding and elevation of Station 171 on Palm Ridge Road.
He expects the funding agreement to be in place by December.
– Assistant Fire Chief Chris Jackson provided an update on the reconstruction of Station 172.
He reported that the contractor recently formed the first floor, which is elevated 6 feet off of the ground. On Sept. 20, it was scheduled to start pouring the floors, weather permitting. Once the floors are done, the contractor will begin to build up — vertically — with the walls and such going in.
– Jackson provided an update on the replacement brush truck. Warrior Manufacturing recently received the chassis. It already completed the body, but there is still some work to do, such as the suspension.
“Their contact says 90 days,” he said of delivery. “They’re hoping for less — 60 days or less.”
– The district responded to 125 calls in July and 99 calls in August.
“We are approximately 27% from where we were last year,” Deputy Fire Chief John DiMaria said.
– The following staff were recognized for their years of service: Lt. Brian Howell for 23 years.
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