County Commission Approves Increases for Fire Rescue and Waste Services

At the Sept. 10 public hearing, the Marion County Board of County Commissioners approved adjustments to assessments for the Fire Rescue and Solid Waste departments. These changes are intended to ensure reliable public safety services and support long-term waste management solutions for the community.

While the millage rate that funds county government will remain unchanged for the fourth consecutive year, these targeted investments will provide the resources needed to address growing demands and protect Marion County residents now and in the years to come.

Even with the increase, Marion County's rates remain competitive compared to similar counties, such as Lake County at $415 per dwelling unit and Collier County at $304 per dwelling unit. These funds will support critical services including fire suppression, prevention, firefighter training and readiness, hazardous materials response, technical rescue, advanced life support first-response, firefighting infrastructure, and public education programs.

Solid Waste assessment
For 17 years, Marion County held the Solid Waste residential assessment steady at $87 per household, saving taxpayers more than $166 million by using alternatives such as transferring waste to the Heart of Florida Landfill in Sumter County. However, with that contract nearing its end, rising disposal costs, and growing volumes of trash, new steps are required to ensure reliable and sustainable waste management.

The newly approved Solid Waste residential assessment will increase from $87 to $215 per household. Even with this change, Marion County's rate remains comparable to other counties with similar-sized populations. The additional funding will support the expansion of landfill operations and help build a reserve for disaster recovery and emergency preparedness.

Find out more about the fees here: MarionFL.org/TRIM