The fire department’s future was a primary focus, with a detailed presentation on its five-year plan. The department highlighted a 98% increase in calls for service over the past decade. The council discussed the request for advanced life support services, which would result in a general fund increase, and the replacement of bunker gear on a 10-year cycle to comply with safety standards and cancer prevention initiatives. A funding request of $32,365 for gear replacement was proposed.

The replacement of the 64-year-old fire station was another major point of conversation. An assessment, estimated to cost between $30,000 and $50,000 and potentially funded by Penny for Pasco monies, was suggested to determine the station’s necessary size and location. The council debated the cost-effectiveness of leveraging existing assessments from Pasco County. The unique needs of the fire department were also a topic, considering the dual function of the new station as both a fire station and an administrative office.

The necessity of a fireboat suitable for rescue operations was brought to attention, with the current 16-foot boat’s limitations being a concern. The council weighed the merits of purchasing a new 21-foot boat, specifically designed for rescue operations, against repowering and rewiring a surplus boat. The new boat’s design would include features such as a lower side, inflatable material, and a stable foundation to improve patient transfer safety during rough waters. Funding possibilities were explored, including grants from organizations like Firehouse Subs and the Florida Forest Service.

The potential purchase of a drone for the police, fire, and building departments was discussed, focusing on the use of the drone for situational awareness, building surveys, and damage assessment after storms. The council showed interest in seeking a grant to fund the drone purchase and the necessary training.

Financial considerations were paramount throughout the meeting, particularly in the context of vehicle and technology upgrades. The council contemplated the purchase of a new F250 to replace a 23-year-old utility vehicle, considering towing capacity and future departmental needs. The replacement of a thermal imager camera and the discussion of maintaining the old utility vehicle also took place.

The need for a new fire truck and accompanying equipment was addressed, with the discussion extending to financing options such as leasing, outright purchase, or grants. A 20-year replacement cycle for the reserve truck and a 10-year cycle for the frontline truck were proposed.

Infrastructure improvements for City Hall were also on the agenda, with a focus on replacing the existing Cat 5 wiring with Cat 6A wiring. The council examined the necessity and the cost-effectiveness of this technology upgrade, which would support the police department and city hall for the next 25 years.

The meeting touched on annual road maintenance funding, with the council noting the $150,000 allocated fell short of the actual needs. The conversation included the effectiveness of reclamite on roads and the importance of a comprehensive approach to infrastructure investment and maintenance.

Public safety enhancements for police vehicles, such as plexiglass barriers and body armor, were discussed. The replacement of a 500-gallon fuel tank for the city hall generator, air conditioning units at the Police Department, and the addition of a rear door for safety reasons were also deliberated.

The storm water utility system was a topic of concern, with the council debating a 30% increase in the storm water fee per equivalent storm unit (ESU) to address infrastructure needs. The necessity of this increase and the discrepancy between the recommended rate and the actual rate implemented were key points of discussion.