Pasco County hosts second workshop on fire rescue impact fee increase proposals

The Pasco Board of County Commissioners convened on April 22, 2025, to discuss significant updates regarding fire rescue impact fees, driven by the county's rapid growth and rising construction costs. The meeting focused on the necessity of increasing these fees to ensure adequate fire and rescue services can meet the demands of a growing population.

Fire Chief and other officials presented data highlighting that Pasco County has experienced a 40.3% population increase since 2004, significantly outpacing the national average of 13.4%. The current fire rescue impact fee, established in 2003, has not been adjusted despite a 150% rise in construction costs and a 143% increase in the Consumer Cost Index over the same period. The proposed changes aim to address these extraordinary circumstances by increasing the fire combat and rescue service impact fees beyond the typical limits set by state law.

The proposed fee structure suggests raising residential impact fees from approximately $420 to $674 per unit, marking a 60% increase. For non-residential units, the fees would also see adjustments, particularly with the recommendation to remove a cap on non-residential developments, which currently limits fees for properties over 50,000 square feet. This cap has been deemed unusual and potentially detrimental to the county's revenue from larger commercial developments.

Consultants presented a detailed methodology for calculating the new fees, emphasizing the need for a logical connection between the growth in population and the corresponding demand for fire services. The proposed fee adjustments are expected to generate approximately $10 million in capital revenue every three to four years, significantly improving the county's ability to fund necessary fire and rescue infrastructure.

Commissioners expressed support for the proposed changes but raised concerns about the implications of removing the cap on commercial properties. Discussions included the potential financial impact on large developments, such as distribution centers, which could incur substantial fees. Some commissioners suggested exploring a graduated fee structure for larger buildings to balance economic development with the need for adequate funding for fire services.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the urgency of updating the impact fees to reflect current realities, with plans for further workshops and public notices required before implementing the new fee structure. The board's actions signal a proactive approach to managing the challenges posed by rapid growth in Pasco County, ensuring that fire and rescue services can keep pace with the increasing demands of its residents.