SARASOTA COUNTY — Sarasota County invites the public to learn about proposed fire assessment rate changes, fire protection services, and other proposed fire service fee changes for Fiscal Year 2027. The proposals include changes to fire assessment rates and Fire and Life Safety Inspection Fees, as well as new fees for fire and EMS standby services. Fire and Life Safety Inspection Fees have not increased since 2007.

The proposed increase would be less than $3 per month for an average residential property and less than $25 per month for an average non-residential property.

Residents are encouraged to attend public meetings to learn more about the proposed changes, provide comments, and ask questions.

The 45-minute presentations will begin at 5:30 p.m. at the following locations on the following dates:

• Monday, Aug. 17: William H. Jervey, Jr. Venice Library, 300 Nokomis Ave. S., Venice.
• Tuesday, Aug. 18: Fire Station 2, 2070 Waldemere St., Sarasota.
• Thursday, Aug. 20: UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County, Green Building, 6600 Clark Road, Sarasota.

The Sarasota County Commission is scheduled to vote on the final fire assessment rates for Fiscal Year 2027 on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026.

The proposed changes are intended to support fire protection, emergency response, and fire and life safety services as the county continues to evaluate service needs and costs.