News Politics

Margate Commission Sets “Not to Exceed” Fire Assessment Rate

by David Volz May 22, 2025

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Margate Commission to Consider 3 Firefighters to a Truck

Margate-Coconut Creek Fire Rescue {Aiden Palmer}

Margate residents may see an increase in their fire service fees.

During the May 21 meeting, the commission approved a resolution relating to the provision of fire rescue services and programs, and establishing the estimated assessment rate for fire rescue assessments for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2025.

The commission agreed to set the “not to exceed” assessment rate at $373, but the final rate homeowners will pay could be lower.

City manager Cale Curtis said the fire rate will have to be increased to meet the department’s growing needs and offer competitive salaries and benefits to firefighters. The annual fire budget is about $17 million. Commissioners discussed whether the rate should be increased significantly in one year or gradually over several years.

It was mentioned that the city might consider signing a contract with the Broward Sheriff’s Office to provide fire rescue. The union representing the firefighters wants to join BSO, but some commissioners and city leaders prefer keeping the fire service within the city.

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David Volz

David Volz has worked as a writer in South Florida for 35 years. He has written for the Sun-Sentinel, Hollywood Gazette, School Transportation News, South Dade News Leaders, Observer among others. He has an MA in Communications from Florida Atlantic University and a BA in Communications from Valparaiso University. Volz teaches Communications at Miami Dade College and Palm Beach State College. He lives in Coral Springs and enjoys running and participating in 5Ks and half-marathons.