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Deltona commission OKs study of non‑ad valorem fire assessment; hearings, workshops to follow
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Summary
The commission adopted a resolution directing staff to begin a study and notification process to consider a uniform non‑ad valorem assessment for fire/rescue services under section 197.3632, Florida Statutes; commissioners emphasized upcoming workshops and potential exemptions for veterans and others.
The Deltona City Commission voted to adopt a resolution confirming its intent to pursue the uniform method of levy and collection of non‑ad valorem assessments to fund fire and rescue services.
The resolution, read by the city attorney, directs staff to transmit required notices to the Volusia County property appraiser, tax collector and the state Department of Revenue and to proceed with an assessment study. Staff told the commission the city’s operating fire budget for services is about $17.37 million (excluding capital), and the assessment study is intended to identify what portion of fire services could be funded by a non‑ad valorem mechanism rather than ad valorem property tax. The city attorney cited section 197.3632, Florida Statutes as the statutory authority for using the uniform method for non‑ad valorem assessments.
Commissioners discussed exemptions and credits for groups such as veterans, houses of worship and other categories; the deputy city manager said staff has experience designing rebate or credit programs and would present options during the required outreach and workshops. The resolution does not set a rate or final assessment; staff said a multi‑month process of public workshops and technical study will precede any rate adoption.
The motion passed with a 6‑0 recorded vote (one commissioner had left the meeting), and staff said if statutory notices are not followed by a petitioner, the city could pause action. The deputy city manager and consultants will prepare analysis of cost allocation, affected parcel counts and proposed exemptions and return with workshops and public hearings as required by statute.
Next steps: staff will complete an assessment study, schedule outreach workshops for the first half of 2026, and bring proposed assessment options and recommended exemptions to the commission for formal vote before any levy is implemented.
