Sarasota County commissioners voted unanimously on Oct. 8 to approve a new agreement with the Nokomis Volunteer Fire Department, a step county staff said will support recruitment and sustain services in a portion of south county.

The agreement, which takes effect Oct. 1 and runs through Sept. 30, 2028, establishes a core funding commitment of $800,000 per year beginning in fiscal year 2026, a tuition-reimbursement program of up to $250,000 to support new firefighters through training, and an equipment reimbursement line of $107,000 to help with gear and initial costs. County staff described the agreement as part of a broader plan to extend county fire-rescue services into parts of Nokomis while preserving the volunteer department as a gateway into the profession.

Fire chiefs and Nokomis department leaders negotiated the new terms with county staff, including chief Brian Gorski and former county fire chief Dave Rathbun. County staff said the agreement replaces earlier, more limited arrangements and establishes reporting, audit and procurement standards consistent with agreements the county maintains with other nonprofit partners.

Why it matters: The county said the Nokomis Volunteer Fire Department will continue to respond in its historical coverage area while also supporting the county's transition of some response zones. The funding is intended to stabilize volunteer staffing, support recruitment and training, and preserve local response capacity.

Board action: Commissioner Kutzinger moved to approve the agreement; Commissioner Mast seconded. Commissioners praised the work done by department leadership and recognized Nokomis chief Brian Gorski for returning from retirement to lead the department. The motion passed unanimously.

Ending: County staff said they will implement the agreement immediately and begin the tuition reimbursement and equipment support programs; they will also provide periodic reporting and audits under the new terms.