The Brooksville City Council convened on July 21, 2025, to address critical issues regarding fire services and law enforcement contracts, with significant discussions surrounding budgetary constraints and service levels.

The meeting commenced with a presentation by Interim Fire Chief Andrew Pepe, who outlined the results of a fire assessment conducted by Stantec. Chief Pepe recommended a 100% cost recovery approach for fire services, emphasizing that this would still require a transfer from the general fund. The council was presented with four options for cost recovery: 100%, neutral, 75%, and 10%. The chief argued that even at 100%, the fees would remain lower than those charged by Hernando County, suggesting that residents would benefit from maintaining local fire services.

Council members engaged in a robust discussion about the implications of the proposed fee increases. Some expressed concerns about the rising costs of the fire department's budget, which has escalated from $1.7 million in 2010 to $3 million in 2025, while others highlighted the necessity of adequate funding to ensure safety and service quality. The council ultimately voted in favor of the 100% cost recovery option, passing the motion with a 4-1 vote.

Following the fire services discussion, the council reviewed the contract with the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office. The current agreement, which provides additional law enforcement services beyond basic coverage, is set to expire. Sheriff Al Neehuis and Major Phil Lakin attended to clarify the terms and address council concerns regarding crime rates and response times. The sheriff noted that the city benefits from a higher density of law enforcement officers compared to the county, resulting in faster response times for emergencies.

Council members raised questions about the adequacy of current law enforcement resources, particularly in light of the city's growth and increasing demands for police services. Some council members expressed a desire to renegotiate the contract to reduce costs while maintaining service levels. Sheriff Neehuis emphasized the importance of community input and the potential consequences of reducing deputy numbers, warning that such cuts could lead to longer response times and diminished service quality.

The meeting concluded with a consensus that while budgetary constraints are pressing, the council must balance fiscal responsibility with the need for effective public safety services. The discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the city in managing its budget while ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents. The council plans to continue evaluating these issues as they prepare for the upcoming fiscal year.