Florida city may shift fire costs to homeowners, with assessment fees up to $597 a year

A broader Florida property tax proposal could cost Ocoee millions in revenue, and some residents worry the city's response could be to add hundreds of dollars a year to what homeowners pay for fire protection.

For families already grappling with rising everyday expenses, that tradeoff could push housing costs higher while also affecting city services.

Here's what to know

Beginning with the 2026-27 fiscal year, Ocoee is weighing a fire assessment that could reach $597 a year for some homeowners, according to WKMG ClickOrlando. The city says the fee would support fire protection services and bring in about $14 million annually.

The concern is tied to a possible drop in tax collections. If Florida voters approve expanded homestead exemptions in November, Ocoee projects a shortfall of about $4.15 million in fiscal year 2027, growing to roughly $8.5 million in fiscal year 2028, WKMG reported.

City officials say police, fire, and parks and recreation could be among the departments hit hardest.

Residents are already voicing concerns. Lesliean Phillip, an Ocoee resident and mother of three, said, "With everything that is going on, we really don't have it."

More background

The Ocoee City Commission voted 4-0 to change the city's fire services assessment program, WKMG reported. That update shifted the city from a Fire Protection Unit model to a Demand and Availability model.

Phillip said her household had been paying a little more than $200, so an increase to as much as $597 would be especially hard to manage while other costs remain elevated.

"Gas is high, groceries is high, and now you have your public services increasing on you. It's like, when is it enough?" she said.

Another Ocoee resident, Wayne Hook, also questioned whether raising the fee is the right approach. "No, I don't. They need to cut some things," he said.

What's being done?

A public hearing on the proposed fire assessment is scheduled for Aug. 18 at City Hall, according to WKMG. Residents who oppose the increase, including Phillip, have said they plan to attend.

Some residents are also questioning the timing. Because the statewide property tax changes still depend on voter approval in November, some argue it is too soon to lock in a higher assessment before the outcome is known.

Phillip said, "You just never know if it will be passed or not. Are we going to get the money back?"

According to WKMG, the city's notice says nonpayment could result in a tax certificate against the property.

Residents pushing back are urging city officials to explore cuts or alternatives before asking homeowners to shoulder more of the cost. "Everything is going up, and it's frankly getting a little out of line," Hook said.

Phillip echoed that frustration, saying, "I think city leaders should at least do other things. Maybe something in the budget can be cut."

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