$190K for Security Lights? Hernando County’s Spending Sparks Outrage
At the upcoming Hernando County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting on May 27, 2025, local residents will want to pay close attention to one specific agenda item: a request for $190,502.86 in taxpayer funds for the installation of underground utilities — just to power security lights at the new Forest Oaks Tax Collector’s building, now informally dubbed the “Taj Mahal.”
This payment would go to Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative, Inc. (WREC), to cover directional boring and trenching under the median — all to bring underground power to security lighting at the new location. The hefty price tag comes under a contract labeled #25-A0239/CT, a figure and item quietly embedded in the county’s official agenda without widespread public notice.
Why the Backlash?
Local advocates and watchdogs are asking an obvious question:
Why spend nearly $200,000 of public money on an infrastructure method that’s not only outdated but also unnecessary?
Across the country, solar-powered security lights have become the gold standard for low-cost, energy-efficient safety solutions. They're:
🌞 Self-sufficient, requiring no trenching or underground cabling
💸 Affordable, especially compared to the proposed $190K project
🌱 Eco-friendly, with zero ongoing utility costs or emissions
Installing traditional electric lighting with this level of investment raises eyebrows — and not just because of the cost. It sends a troubling message that county leadership is prioritizing appearance over financial responsibility.
What’s the Justification?
According to the BOCC agenda and attached documents, the contribution in aid of construction is specifically tied to electrical upgrades at the new Tax Collector's site. The agenda item includes links to the invoice and a construction agreement (source: Hernando County Agenda File #15918).
Yet, there’s no mention of whether alternative energy solutions were considered — a major concern for residents pushing for more transparency and smarter budget practices.
Why It Matters to You
In a time when housing costs are rising, schools are underfunded, and infrastructure needs abound, every dollar counts.
This decision isn’t just about lights — it’s about accountability. If elected officials are willing to approve $190,000 for power lines and drills for lighting, what else is slipping through the cracks?
Take Action
If this concerns you — and it should — contact the BOCC before the vote on May 27th. Demand answers:
Was solar lighting considered?
Are cost-benefit analyses available to the public?
Why is this amount necessary?
You can attend the meeting, email your commissioner, or leave a public comment (limited to 3 minutes) at the next BOCC session.
🗣️ Your voice matters. Taxpayer money is your money.
Final Thoughts
Public trust begins with financial integrity. In a growing county like Hernando, we cannot afford to treat taxpayer dollars as a blank check. It’s time to ask tough questions and demand smarter, greener, more responsible leadership.
Because when the lights come on, the truth should be clear — not cost $190,000.
"Stay Informed. Stay Involved. Spring Hill Speaks."
