Title
Supervisor Briggs recommending the Board approve and authorize a letter to Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. urging suspension of the State Fire Prevention Fee in light of projected State General Fund reserves and operating surpluses.
Body
Fiscal Impact/Change to Net County Cost
There is no fiscal impact or change to net county cost associated with this item.
Background
In June 2011 the Legislature imposed a State Fire Prevention Fee on all habitable structures located in the State Responsibility Area (SRA). The County has consistently opposed the imposition of the fee on its residents.
Reason for Recommendation
In November the State Legislative Analyst's Office published, "The 2014-15 Budget: California's Fiscal Outlook." The report forecast a $5.6 billion state General Fund reserve at the end of 2014-15, with operating surpluses growing between $1 billion and $3 billion annually through fiscal year 2017-18. The legislation imposing the Fire Prevention Fee allows for the fee to be suspended when there are sufficient funds in the State Responsibility Area Fire Prevention Fund.
Action(s) to be taken following Board approval
The Chief Administrative Office will send the original letter to Governor Brown and copies to members of the Legislature and Board of Equalization following signature.
Contact
Mike Applegarth (5123)
Concurrences
N/A