SB 1526 Summary

• Creates the Southwest Florida Fire Control and Rescue District as an independent special district in Collier County to consolidate existing fire/rescue districts through voluntary mergers approved by referendum.

• District becomes operational only after majority voter approval in at least one existing fire district, with merged districts transferring all assets, liabilities, and authority to the new district effective September 30 of the merger year.

• Establishes a fire board initially composed of appointed members from merging districts (3 members each if multiple districts merge), transitioning to elected commissioners by service delivery area after the next general election.

• Authorizes the district to levy ad valorem taxes up to rates previously approved by referendum in each merged district, assess impact fees, issue bonds, and exercise eminent domain, while preserving existing tax limitations and firefighter pension plans.

• Allows Collier County and municipalities to voluntarily transfer fire/rescue services to the district through interlocal agreement or law, with provisions for elected representation and payment of ad valorem taxes until voter approval of a millage rate.