DeBary council awards $57,215 contract for fire‑assessment study, emphasizes study is not a fee decision

The DeBary City Council voted unanimously to award a $57,215 contract to Stantech Consulting Services to study fire service costs and recommend assessment methodology that could be used if the city chooses to pursue a non‑ad valorem fire assessment.

Assistant City Manager Jacob Smith told the council the consultant will deliver a fire service cost analysis, methodology and rate calculations, an assessment report and implementation guidance, and can provide training to staff to update the work annually. "This study will help the city evaluate and develop potential funding methodologies for fire rescue services and provide...implementation guidance for future council consideration," Jacob Smith said.

Smith and other staff emphasized the contract is for a study; it is not an authorization to levy a fee. Council Member Cell asked for a plain‑English summary; city management replied the study will provide data for decisions during the next budget cycle and, if pursued later, the city would follow statutory notice and assessment procedures. The manager said the study is expected to conclude around December and funding will come from a future budget amendment funded by cost savings.

Terms: $57,215; one‑year term with four one‑year renewal options; scope includes cost analysis, rate methodology, assessment report and optional implementation and staff training. Council approved the award and authorized the city manager to execute the agreement.