TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – Leon County leaders formally requested a state audit of Tallahassee’s Fire Assessment Program on Monday.
During a press conference, County Commission Chair Christian Caban and Commissioner Bill Proctor shared findings from an independent report that they said pose several questions for the city.
The report was conducted by Benesch Law Firm and calls attention to the city’s alleged spending, as well as reported billing discrepancies, inconsistent property charges and questions about fee exemptions.
The dispute between the county and city escalated last summer over rate increases for unincorporated areas. However, there were underlying tensions, including the school district stopping fire fee payments in 2020.
Last fall, the City Commission voted not to renew its fire service contract with the county.
The report alleged overspending at Fire Station 17 and a multi-million dollar revenue shortfall.
Caban penned a letter Tuesday to the state, asking leaders to review this information and determine if the county and residents should be properly compensated.
“They’ve been billed a rate that was not fair, not equal, not just. That is against state law,” Caban said. “So, I want to be clear, Leon County residents and City of Tallahassee residents have legal damages.”
A lawsuit challenging the city’s fire service fee was presented to a judge back in March, claiming it was unconstitutional, and discriminatory. According to court documents, the lawsuit will be heard again in November.
WCTV reached out to the city about the report and received the following statement:
We are actively engaged in a dispute resolution process initiated by Leon County regarding the expiration of the interlocal agreement under which the City provides fire services to the County. The City will defend itself against all accusations and allegations made by Leon County.
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