WATCH: Brevard County Commission Unanimously Approves Fire Fee Hike to Boost Emergency Services Pay
By Space Coast Daily // May 21, 2025
THAD ALTMAN: This is about protecting lives and property, It’s an investment in public safety
WATCH: Brevard County Commission Unanimously Approves Fire Fee Hike to Boost Emergency Services Pay
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA—To address ongoing staffing challenges and wage concerns among first responders, the Brevard County Commission has approved a 37% increase in fire service fees for residents in unincorporated areas.
The decision, passed unanimously on May 20, will take effect on October 1.
Under the new rate, the average homeowner’s annual fire service fee will rise by $103.44, bringing the total to $383.01. The hike is expected to generate approximately $14.3 million in additional revenue annually, equating to about $8.62 more monthly for property owners.
Officials say the funding boost is critical to attract and retain qualified firefighters and paramedics, as the county continues to lose personnel to better-paying opportunities elsewhere.
Brevard Fire Rescue Chief Patrick Voltaire emphasized the rising costs of maintaining essential services, noting that fire station construction and equipment costs have surged dramatically. A single fire truck, for example, now costs nearly $1 million—twice as much as just a few years ago.
Beyond this year’s increase, future adjustments to the fire fee will be tied annually to either the Consumer Price Index or a maximum of 3%, whichever is lower.
During the commission meeting, residents voiced a mix of support and concern. Commissioners acknowledged those concerns but stressed the urgency of stabilizing the county’s emergency services.
District 1 Commissioner Katie Delaney, who campaigned on improving firefighter compensation, said the county has initiated a state-required study on raising developer impact fees, but noted that legal and procedural barriers make such changes a slower process.
District 5 Commissioner Thad Altman said that the fee increase could save residents money by reducing emergency response times, which could lower insurance costs.
“This is about protecting lives and property,” Altman said. “It’s an investment in public safety.”
The approved hike reflects local officials’ ongoing efforts to maintain essential emergency services amid rising costs and competitive labor pressures.
