Southwest Ranches volunteer fire board approves IRS filing and adopts FY 2026–27 budget with $295,000 increase

The Town of Southwest Ranches Volunteer Fire Department Board of Directors voted unanimously Wednesday to approve the fiscal‑year IRS form and to adopt the proposed fiscal year 2026–27 budget, which the board said represents an approximate $295,000 year‑over‑year increase.

Emil Lopez, the town financial director, told the board the IRS filing is a standard annual requirement tied to the formation of the fire‑rescue entity and that the town typically requests an extension and files in August. "This is the IRS form that is required ... we usually request an extension," Lopez said, explaining the timing and routine nature of the submission.

Neil, a staff member presenting the budget, said the proposed FY 2026–27 budget shows a year‑over‑year increase "about 295,000." He attributed roughly $203,000 of that change to an annual increase in the town’s fire‑safety contract and said the remainder stems from two program modifications associated with the volunteer fire department. Neil also noted that the prior year’s budget had been unusually low, which makes the current increase appear larger in percentage terms.

The board heard that the proposed budget had not been reviewed by the advisory board because two attempts to convene that body failed for lack of quorum; the item will continue through the town’s standard budget process, including a budget workshop scheduled for August 11. After discussion the board moved, seconded, and approved the budget by roll call vote.

Board action recorded three formal approvals during the meeting: adoption of minutes from June 26 and July 24, approval of the fiscal‑year IRS form (with the customary extension practice), and adoption of the FY 2026–27 budget. All recorded roll‑call votes on those items were unanimous among the five board members present.

The meeting adjourned; the chair informed attendees the regular town council meeting would begin at 7 p.m.