SB 642: East Naples Fire Control and Rescue District Charter

• Codifies and comprehensively revises the charter for the East Naples Fire Control and Rescue District as an independent special fire district in Collier County, preserving authority to levy up to 1.5 mills on assessed property value.

• Establishes a five-member elected board of fire commissioners serving 4-year terms in nonpartisan elections, with board members required to be qualified electors of the district.

• Authorizes the district to levy ad valorem taxes consistent with chapter 191, issue general obligation bonds, charge impact fees for new construction, and establish rules and regulations for fire prevention and control.

• Grants district authority to exercise powers including hiring firefighting personnel, inspecting property for fire hazards, establishing water supply systems, and providing fire and rescue services within district boundaries.

• Provides tort liability immunity consistent with chapter 768, Florida Statutes, for the district and its officers and employees; requires district reimbursement to county for referendum election costs.