This browser does not support the Video element.
COCOA, Fla. - In a decision aimed at keeping swimmers safe, the Brevard County Commission voted Tuesday on how to fund lifeguard services for the upcoming fiscal year.
After much debate over who would cover the costs, the commission decided to allow cities to continue paying the amount they have traditionally contributed. This decision comes after discussions of a budget proposal that could have required cities like Cocoa Beach to pay up to 10 times more for lifeguard services.
MORE STORIES:
- Seminole County preps for Helene as flooding concerns grow
- Porch pirate dressed as fake Amazon delivery worker targets homes, neighbors say
- Orange County to sell land once planned for National Pulse Museum
- Bond denied for suspect in deadly shooting of youth football coach at Melbourne park
- Amendment 1 could make Florida school board elections partisan in 2026
Ultimately, county officials agreed to adjust the budget, ensuring cities wouldn't face a significant financial burden.
Cocoa Beach Mayor Keith Capizzi, who spoke before the meeting, expressed relief at the outcome.
"We’re just not able to pay 800-something thousand dollars extra that they wanted us to pay," Capizzi said. "So what we’re leaning towards is paying the status quo—what we were paying in previous years."
For now, lifeguard services in Brevard County will remain unchanged for the next fiscal year.
STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 35 ORLANDO:
- Download the FOX 35 News app for breaking news alerts, the latest news headlines
- Download the FOX 35 Storm Team Weather app for weather alerts & radar
- Sign up for FOX 35's daily newsletter for the latest morning headlines
- FOX Local: Stream FOX 35 newscasts, FOX 35 News+, Central Florida Eats on your smart TV