Hendry County BOCC Budget Meeting 6/9/26

The Hendry County Board of County Commissioners held a budget workshop on June 9, 2026, focusing extensively on fire department operations and funding across multiple districts including Montura, Pioneer, Felda, Clewiston, and Labelle. Discussions covered current staffing levels, call volumes, apparatus conditions, and upcoming equipment purchases such as new tenders and structure gear funded partially through grants like the Florida AFG. Budget presentations highlighted anticipated increases in repairs, maintenance, fuel, and operating costs, with specific attention to personnel stipends and gear replacement schedules. The board reviewed proposed MSBU (Municipal Service Benefit Unit) rate adjustments to address budget shortfalls, with increases suggested to cover deficits and build reserves, supported by recent studies from Fitch and Associates and PFM. Fire chiefs detailed capital improvement plans including apparatus replacement and training facilities, some funded through loans or grants. Public safety concerns related to staffing adequacy and infrastructure growth were also raised. The meeting concluded with plans to finalize MSBU rates and prepare for the general fund budget balancing in July.