Dixie County Fire Rescue in Crisis | Gainesville News

Dixie County Fire Rescue is drowning in an $800,000 budget shortfall, forcing painful cuts that have left them short-staffed, stations shuttered, and ambulances missing. With nine paramedics and EMTs gone this summer, the department can’t compete with private pay rates, slashing $1.4 million from EMS — leaving residents worried as services fray. To stay afloat, they’re waiting on hurricane reimbursements and pushing to double fire assessment fees from $125 to $250 — a move sparking backlash but seen as vital to keeping emergency care alive. The chief’s at the budget hearing to fight for what’s left. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/3f661518e83d33ca