HB 809 Summary

• Creates the Panther Creek Fire Control and Rescue District (PCFCD) as an independent special fire district in Collier County that becomes operational only after an existing independent special fire control and rescue district votes to merge with it by referendum.

• Allows existing independent special fire control and rescue districts in Collier County to voluntarily merge into PCFCD while preserving their previously approved ad valorem tax millage rates and existing authorities.

• Provides for a two-step consolidation process: districts can merge into PCFCD first, then PCFCD and the Paradise Coast Fire Control and Rescue District can later merge to create the Southwest Florida Fire Control and Rescue District without additional legislative action.

• Grants PCFCD authority to levy ad valorem taxes, non-ad valorem assessments, impact fees, and issue bonds; establish unified communications systems and service standards; and employ personnel with protection of existing pension plans and employee benefits.

• Establishes a fire board governing structure with appointed initial members (three from each merging district) transitioning to elected commissioners by service delivery area after the next general election.