TO: Honorable Mayor & Members of the North Port Commission
FROM: Peter D. Lear, CPA, CGMA, City Manager
TITLE: Discussion and possible action to provide a letter of support to the Florida League of Cities in their efforts for municipalities to receive funding due to the new E911 law
Recommended Action
Provide direction regarding letter of support.
Background Information
The State of Florida takes part in 911/E911 in line with the rest of the country. In the State of Florida, the Department of Management Services manages the program on a state level with all fees collected as part of the system and in reference to FSS 365,173. The statute disperses all fees collected to each of the 67 counties to maintain and spend. Money must be spent on only specific items (e.g. salaries, 911 software, 911 center equipment, etc.). Currently no statute mandates the distribution to local (city) public safety communications centers. Each of the 67 counties handles any money, if any, that is given, or equipment provided to city government communications centers.
The statute should be amended to provide a formula based upon fees collected, source of fees (location), emergency communication services provided by the city government (e.g. law enforcement dispatch, 911, fire dispatch, and medical dispatch). It is important that local emergency communication centers receive some of this funding without relying on the generosity from the individual county government entities to keep up with demand for services as well as requirement enacted by the Florida Legislature. The City is requesting a letter of support for the Florida League of Cities' efforts for municipalities to receive funding due to the new E911 law.
Due to notice requirements, a resolution could not be done at this time, but is being worked on for the July 23rd meeting.
Strategic Plan
Develop and maintain fiscal policies that support growth and provide economic stability.
Financial Impact
None
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