Concerns over fire assessment fees dominated the Brooksville City Council Workshop Meeting on June 23, 2025, as council members grappled with the ongoing financial strain on the fire department. A council member, reflecting on the inception of fire assessment fees in 2016, expressed frustration that the department remains heavily reliant on the general fund, which now constitutes 32% of the budget.

The discussion highlighted a staggering $128,000 in overtime costs, raising questions about the sustainability of funding for fire services. "Although this is a nice presentation, I have a hard time digesting it because of the cost," the council member stated, emphasizing the disconnect between the promised financial independence of the fire department and its current situation.

Residents currently pay $181 in fire fees, but concerns were raised about the potential need for a Municipal Service Taxing Unit (MSTU) to cover additional costs. The council member pointed out that the MSTU is already in place, directing funds to the county, which complicates the financial landscape for Brooksville.

As the council continues to navigate these challenges, the future of fire funding remains uncertain, with calls for a reevaluation of the current financial strategies to ensure the fire department can operate effectively without overburdening taxpayers.