Safety Harbor OKs scope to study possible fire assessment fee; commission debates fee vs. ad valorem

The Safety Harbor City Commission on Feb. 2 authorized staff to prepare a scope of services to research and plan a potential fire assessment fee that could supplement funding for the city’s fire department.

City management told the commission the effort would produce a scope for soliciting professional services to evaluate project feasibility, alternatives, cost estimates and implementation considerations; staff said there is no budgetary commitment at this time and any contract would return to the commission for approval. The city manager said preliminary expert input suggests the full analysis and implementation process could take roughly two to three years.

Commissioners debated the policy premise. Several members said they oppose adding a separate assessment fee if the city continues to collect ad valorem property taxes; one commissioner said they would prefer to adjust the millage rate rather than add fees that residents must pay in addition to property taxes. Others said preparing the study now gives the city options in case state action reduces ad valorem authority and would provide factual cost estimates for public discussion. Commissioner (S4) said: "I don't want to add additional cost to the citizens over and above our ad valorem taxes," while Commissioner (S2) said having a scoped analysis would allow the city to present concrete numbers to voters and residents.

The commission voted to authorize preparation of the scope of services; the motion passed by recorded vote. Staff will return with a recommended scope of work, estimated costs and a project timeline before any contract is executed.