The proposed amendment seeks to activate the waterfront area, providing immediate community engagement through various uses such as food trucks, coffee bars, juice bars, and live music. The amendment also includes flexibility in design requirements to avoid a parking lot-like appearance and a waiver of development fees to incentivize quick implementation. The initial term for these interim uses is set for two years, governed by a license agreement to be discussed further in two weeks.

Charles Carr and Michael Benedict from the development team provided insights into the project’s potential, referencing successful examples from other locations like Lake Nona’s Boxy Park. They emphasized that activating the waterfront would create immediate community engagement and support local entrepreneurship by providing low-risk opportunities for small business owners. Benedict noted the public’s strong interest, with numerous inquiries from local vendors eager to participate.

However, concerns were raised about the potential popularity of the project and the logistical challenges that could arise. Another council member raised the possibility of temporarily utilizing part of the space for soccer fields, though Burman responded that the logistics of preparing the area for soccer would be too extensive for the short duration of use.

A local business owner expressed concerns about the impact of homelessness and panhandling on the proposed food truck park, questioning what measures the council would take to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for patrons. This issue was highlighted by the overturned panhandling ordinance, which had previously affected local restaurants. A council member clarified the legal framework, emphasizing property owners’ rights to control activities on their premises and the potential enforcement of trespass laws.

Financial implications of the project were also discussed, with one speaker expressing skepticism about private developers using city land without paying rental fees. The speaker questioned the fairness of allowing a private entity to profit from public land, emphasizing the need for clarity on the financial arrangements and the role of the city’s parks and recreation department.

Additionally, the council addressed Ordinance 20245, which amends the River Yard Master Development Agreement and includes provisions for repealing conflicting ordinances, severability, and an effective date. The council also reviewed Ordinance 2024-15, amending Section 6-3 regarding the list of properties exempt from the general prohibition of possession and consumption of alcohol on city-owned or controlled public property. This ordinance allows for alcohol service on city property through a license agreement if specifically requested.

Public safety concerns were highlighted by a council member who mentioned a recent incident involving a 13-year-old shooting victim linked to juveniles handling firearms. Police Chief Manny Marino confirmed the ongoing investigation and the recovery of multiple stolen weapons. He emphasized the importance of community assistance in locating the suspect responsible for supplying firearms to these juveniles.

The council also discussed the maintenance of medians on Dun Lon, noting issues with the new vendor responsible for landscaping. Weeds were reported to be taller than bushes, along with dead grass and evidence of fungus. An update on the vendor’s performance and accountability was requested for the next meeting.

Election-related discussions included reminders about the upcoming election day and early voting. Residents were encouraged to participate, with information provided about early voting locations and times. The simplicity of the election process was emphasized, noting no runoffs as only two candidates were running for each council seat.

In addressing the city’s budget, the city manager highlighted trends in the fund balance and the importance of maintaining a financial buffer for emergencies, particularly hurricanes. The council members agreed on a target fund balance policy between 30% and 35%. Discussions also covered expected savings from an elevator repair project at City Hall and higher-than-anticipated municipal revenue shares.

Lastly, condolences were expressed for the passing of former Daytona Beach Shores city manager Michael Booker and local resident and business owner Robert Troop, both noted for their contributions to the community. The meeting concluded with a reminder of the next regular meeting rescheduled to August 21 due to Election Day.