Agenda Item: 15(a)
Prepared By: Chris Byrne, Fire-Rescue Chief
Business: City Council Item
Department: Fire-Rescue Department
Title
Resolution – Authorizing the City’s Intent to Use the Uniform Method for Collecting Non-Ad Valorem Special Assessments for Fire Services and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Contract with Accenture LLC to Conduct a Fire Service Assessment Fee Study in an Amount Not to Exceed $65,000 – Chris Byrne, Fire-Rescue Chief, Fire Rescue Department
Body
BACKGROUND:
The concept of a Fire Service Assessment was presented to the City Council during the FY 2027 Revenue Workshop on May 18, 2026. The adopted FY 2027 Fire Rescue Operating Budget includes $65,000 to conduct a consultant study evaluating a potential non-ad valorem special assessment for fire services.
A Fire Service Assessment is being considered as an alternative funding mechanism for the City’s Fire Rescue Department. If implemented, the assessment would provide a stable and dedicated source of revenue that is not directly affected by fluctuations in property values. The assessment would be established at a fixed rate and allocated based on each property’s proportionate share of the cost of providing fire services.
To preserve the City’s ability to consider implementing this funding option for FY 2028, City Council approval of the following two items is requested:
Resolution of Intent
In anticipation that the City may consider developing and implementing a non-ad valorem special assessment program to fund fire services within the incorporated area of Marco Island beginning in FY 2028, the City must complete the following requirements to use the uniform method of collection through the annual property tax bill:
Adopt a resolution expressing the City’s intent to potentially use the uniform method for collecting non-ad valorem special assessments; and
Publish a notice of intent in a newspaper of general circulation once a week for four consecutive weeks...
Click here for full text