The Brooksville City Council held a special meeting on July 28, 2025, focusing on critical discussions surrounding the future of the Brooksville Fire Department and potential consolidation with Hernando County Fire Rescue. The meeting featured input from various community members, highlighting differing perspectives on fire service management and budget considerations.

The session began with a resident expressing concerns about the financial implications of maintaining separate fire departments. They emphasized the need for the council to make prudent decisions that would benefit taxpayers, hinting at ongoing discussions among Southern Hills residents about possibly leaving the city due to dissatisfaction with current services.

Another speaker, who identified as a supporter of consolidation, criticized the city’s presentation regarding fire service assessments. They pointed out that while the city projected stable costs for Brooksville Fire Rescue, the reality of needing additional fire stations and personnel would likely lead to increased expenses. They argued that even a modest increase in fire service fees could be justified when compared to everyday costs, such as dining out.

A resident from Southern Hills raised concerns about the maintenance of fire apparatus and the perceived inefficiencies of operating two fire departments. They urged the council to move beyond discussions of consolidation and take decisive action, suggesting that merging with Hernando County could provide better career opportunities for firefighters and improved service for residents.

Bob Morgan, another community member, commended the council for their proposed millage rate but cautioned that the decision to consolidate should not be taken lightly. He highlighted the historical significance of the Brooksville Fire Department and the potential benefits of retaining local control while considering the financial burdens of maintaining multiple fire stations.

Nicholas Lamo, a representative from the Brooksville Fire Department, clarified misconceptions about recent fire incidents and defended the department's capabilities. He argued that investing in the local fire department would ultimately yield better outcomes for the community, as consolidation could divert resources away from Brooksville.

As the meeting concluded, council members acknowledged the input from residents and reiterated their commitment to addressing the community's needs. They emphasized the importance of maintaining a distinct identity for Brooksville while navigating the complexities of fire service management and potential consolidation with the county.

The discussions underscored a pivotal moment for Brooksville as residents and officials weigh the benefits and challenges of fire service consolidation, with significant implications for community safety and fiscal responsibility. The council plans to continue engaging with the community as they explore these critical issues further.