Jackson County Board of County Commissioners - Workshop - April 28, 2026 4:30 PM CST

The Jackson County Board of County Commissioners held a workshop on April 28, 2026, primarily focused on exploring the implementation of non-ad valorem assessments for fire and EMS services as an alternative revenue source. Representatives from Accenture presented detailed information on the legal framework, methodologies, and procedural requirements for imposing fire and EMS assessments, including the historical demand methodology and the annual adoption of assessment rates. The discussion covered potential exemptions, billing methods (tax bill, separate bill, utility bill), and policy considerations such as hardship exemptions and revenue neutrality. The cost for conducting the assessment study was estimated between $40,000 and $60,000 depending on whether one or both assessments were pursued. Commissioners expressed interest in the fire assessment as a preferred funding mechanism over increasing property taxes. Additionally, the workshop briefly addressed the possibility of imposing a burn ban due to drought conditions, with plans to add the issue to the upcoming meeting agenda.