How does Osceola County compare with other Counties with similar demographics, land mass and population, as far as fees being assessed and the amount budgeted for the service?
The growth of Fire Rescue is in direct correlation with both population growth and call volume. Since 1995 the department has seen a 45% increase in both population growth and call volume. The question of budget for service requires a definition on current level of service as well as a determination on the level of service desired for the community. Fire Rescue staff has determined that the current level of service is an 8 minute response time to 50% of the calls. That eight minutes is from the time of the 911 call to the arrival of emergency service units. This level of service will now be compared to similar counties and their level of service. The closest county tying level of service to budget is Orange County. Their current level of service is an 8 minute response time to 75% of their calls. Further study and information is being gathered and will be included in coming workshops with the Board of County Commissioners.
