Sanibel fire board sets tentative millage rate
The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District’s commission approved the not-to-exceed millage rate and budget hearings for fiscal year 2026-27 at its meeting, as well as reviewed the chief’s annual performance.
On July 8, the commissioners voted 2-0 on a resolution to adopt a tentative millage rate of 1.3915 mills, which exceeds the rolled-back rate of 1.3016 mills, resulting in a tax increase of 6.91%.
Commissioner Jerry Muench was attending remotely, so he could not vote.
The millage rate can be lowered during the upcoming budget process but not raised.
The budget hearings will be held on Sept. 9 and Sept. 21 at 5:01 p.m.
Prior to the vote, Fire Chief Kevin Barbot provided an update on the preliminary property valuations compared to the initial estimates. He reported that the millage for the current fiscal year is 1.3915.
“We have a lot of unknowns,” he said, pointing in particular to the property tax relief bill that would increase the homestead exemption if the amendment is approved by Florida voters in November.
Barbot continued that in working on the upcoming budget, the question was also how to gauge and adjust for the year-over-year inflation, wage increases, rise in operational expenses and more. So they used the recent tax values for 2027 and 2028, plus accounted for a homestead change for both years.
They did a 3% adjustment for personnel services, added 8% for operational expenses like repairs and fuel, and added 10% for health insurance as the county advised him to plan for a potential increase.
Asked by the commission, he recommended sticking with the current 1.3915 mills.
Barbot reported that it would increase the proposed budget by 6.91%.
“The not-to-exceed is the max millage that we can set before our budget hearings,” he added, reminding the commissioners that they can then lower the rate during the budget process.
Muench suggested following the chief’s recommendation and the motion was made.
Also during the meeting, the commission conducted its annual performance review for Barbot.
Muench praised his work over the last year, as well as his prior years.
“I can’t say enough how lucky we are to have him,” he said.
Commissioner Bruce Cochrane reported that he is “very pleased” with the chief’s performance.
“He’s done an unbelievable job, despite the tough challenges,” he said. “He’s put together a great staff. He’s an excellent leader.”
Commissioner Richard McCurry voiced agreement.
“I mirror what these guys said,” he said.
Barbot thanked the commissioners. He also expressed his appreciation and gratitude for his support staff, explaining that he could not do the job that he is doing if he did not have such a great team.
IN OTHER NEWS
– Deputy Fire Chief John DiMaria reported that the district responded to 939 calls in June, compared to 952 calls for the same month last year. It has responded to 142 calls this year, compared to 110 calls for the same time period for 2025.
– Division Chief of Prevention Larry Williams reported that he conducted 26 fire plan reviews and 139 fire inspections in June.
– The following staff were recognized for their years of service: Capt. Mike Martin for 19 years.
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