Broward to take over fire rescue from Sheriff's Office

• It provides services to multiple cities, including Hallandale Beach, Weston, Dania Beach and Pembroke Park.

Driving the news: On Tuesday, the county commission unanimously voted to notify the Sheriff's Office that it will not renew its fire-rescue contract, beginning the transition to a county-run department.

• The current agreement, which renews every five years, runs through Sept. 30, 2028.

What they're saying: "Today's action will allow Broward County [the] opportunity to control its own fire department and its costs," Commissioner Lamar Fisher said.

• "You will have more financial oversight, so long-term, I believe it is most economical for oversight by the board," County Administrator Monica Cepero added.

Friction point: Driving the commission's decision to transition was its limited control over spending— an issue that has fueled tension between the county and the sheriff.

• The county previously accused Sheriff Gregory Tony of "financial mismanagement," saying he used millions of dollars meant for salaries to pay for branding and amenities at the office's training and wellness center.

The big picture: Broward is one of three counties in the state whose fire rescue department is operated by a Sheriff's Office, according to Assistant County Administrator Michael Ruiz.

• "The other two are in the Panhandle," he told the commission. "They are fairly small."
• He said the two-year transition is more than enough time because the agency, personnel and budget are all in place.
• The department's 907 staffers will become county employees.

The other side: Following the decision, Tony accused county government of "playing politics with your safety."

• "This is not simply about who manages a department; it is about preserving a system that is working for Broward County residents," he wrote on Instagram.