FL H0785

Amends chapter 2004-407, Laws of Florida, to revise borrowing requirements for the St. Lucie County Fire District board of commissioners.

Board may borrow up to 10 percent of the district's operating budget annually (capped at $1.5 million) with supermajority approval of six affirmative votes, excluding normal operational expenses.

During declared district emergencies, board may borrow up to $4 million in a single year, with total outstanding debt not exceeding $5 million.

Defines district emergency as: natural or manmade fire/medical disaster requiring extensive overtime or personnel; response to county's local emergency declaration; or unanticipated vehicle/equipment replacement not covered by insurance.

Borrowing must follow chapters 189 and 191, Florida Statutes; refinanced debt cannot extend beyond the original loan term; promissory notes are charged against tax revenues.