The fire department’s budget proposal drew attention, particularly in terms of enhancing its operational capacity. Chief Sanchez outlined the department’s request for a $3,297,835 budget allocation for the fire chief’s office, $12,201,523 for fire suppression, and $14,487,875 for emergency medical services. Key budget changes included increased maintenance costs and substantial investments in new machinery and equipment, notably a new fire truck priced at approximately $1.4 million. To manage increasing demands, the department requested nine additional personnel for a new tower truck and three new firefighters to reduce overtime. Expansion plans also include a second EMS captain to boost efficiency.

Discussions highlighted the city’s approach to financing these needs. Chief Sanchez clarified that unlike in previous years, strategic debt options would not be pursued for fire truck purchases, as sufficient reserves are available. This shift prompted a council member to suggest reconsidering debt leverage for such significant capital improvements. The proposed Station 7 surfaced as a focal point, with staffing needs estimated at 21 additional personnel upon its completion. The council discussed the current staffing structure and the importance of balancing personnel allocations to manage overtime and ensure adequate coverage across shifts.

The broader conversation underscored the operational challenges faced by the fire service, including a recent incident involving an ambulance accident. While both involved personnel were reported to be in stable condition, the event emphasized the need for continuous investment in training and equipment. The department allocated $204,000 for firefighter training reimbursement. Additionally, the status of fire hydrants in new developments was reviewed to ensure compliance with national standards and adequate water pressure for firefighting needs.

Simultaneously, the police department’s discussion addressed staffing and salary competitiveness. Chief McKinnon presented a case for six new sworn positions to improve the officer per capita ratio, still below the state average. The chief highlighted the necessity of competitive salaries, noting that Apopka’s starting salaries had fallen from third to seventh among regional departments. A proposed 5% wage increase aims to retain officers and attract new talent, a crucial move given the department’s current vacancies and the city’s expanding population, which has grown from 46,571 residents in 2015 to an estimated 61,820 by April 2024.

The police department’s operational needs included requests for 19 patrol vehicles to replace aging units and equip new officers. The department’s community engagement initiatives were also discussed, with a budget of $18,000 for programs aimed at building public trust and fostering positive interactions with residents.

Public comments during the meeting echoed concerns about the adequacy of funding for public safety and infrastructure. A community member, Jeff Ty, praised the fire and police departments’ rapid response to recent incidents, emphasizing the need for an aerial truck to cover the city’s northern areas. Ty also stressed wage competitiveness, referencing higher starting salaries in neighboring departments, and called for improved collaboration between city departments and residents to enhance safety and service delivery.

The council meeting further delved into the broader budgetary framework, focusing on the proposed millage rate for fiscal year 2025-2026. Finance Director Glenn Sherman presented the proposed operating millage rate of 4.6876, 6.18% higher than the rollback rate of 4.4146. The general fund’s projected revenues and expenses showed a reliance on approximately $5.6 million in reserves to balance the budget, with questions raised about the use of excess funds above the policy requirement. Discussions about the complexities of managing budgetary needs while ensuring compliance with reserve policies highlighted the city’s fiscal challenges.