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Commission authorizes $80,970 study to explore fire-assessment option for FY2027
Summary
The City Commission approved contracting Alfred Benesh & Company to conduct a fire-assessment study for $80,970 and to publish notice of intent under Florida Statute 197.3632; approval preserves the option for a future non-ad valorem assessment but does not implement a charge now.
The New Smyrna Beach City Commission voted to authorize a fire-assessment study with Alfred Benesh & Company, a contract estimated at $80,970, and to publish a notice of intent to use the uniform method of assessment collection required by Florida Statute 197.3632. Finance Director Joanne Drury told commissioners the action preserves the city's ability to consider a non ad valorem fire assessment during the FY2027 budget process but "approving these actions does not commit the city to implementing a fire assessment."
Commissioners debated whether a separate line item for fire protection would improve transparency. Vice Mayor Martin said he "loves separate line items on the property tax for public safety, including fire," arguing it could help keep other property-tax components lower. The mayor and others warned residents that an assessment still comes "out of the wallet of the resident," and Commissioner Perrine pressed staff to examine what would be reduced in the current general-fund allocations if the assessment were adopted. City Attorney clarified the distinct legal requirements for assessments.
On the roll call the motion to authorize the study passed 3–2 (three yes, two no). The vote preserves a path to a potential future assessment but does not set rates or implement a charge; Drury said further analysis and public engagement would be part of next year’s budget process.
