Leon County Schools not paying bill for fire department

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) - Leon County Schools are not paying Tallahassee's fire fees, claiming that they are exempt under the doctrine of sovereign immunity.

The schools' spokesperson Chris Petley said LCS does not have to pay the fire fees because they are a government entity and discussed that with the City of Tallahassee about three to four years ago.

Additionally, instead of paying the fire fees, Petley shared that about 80% of the money goes towards paying employees which is the same across the board for the district's budget.

Joey Davis, president of the Tallahassee Professional Firefighters Union, stated that the school district's failure to pay fees is putting stress on them, as the district owes them at least $3 million.

Additionally, Davis said that money would go a long way to fund new stations, personnel and more.

He believes it is unfair to charge residents the fire fee while schools refuse to pay. Specifically, he thinks it is wrong to increase charges for others to cover the $3 million shortfall.

The city and LCS have yet to come to an agreement although the city continues to bill the school district.

Tune in to Eyewitness News at 5 and 6 for the full story. This story will also be updated this evening with full details.