The Vintage Acres development was a central topic, where residents were adamant about the risks of flooding that could result from new development projects. Many residents highlighted the need for thorough assessments and studies to understand the long-term environmental impacts before proceeding with construction. A resident emphasized, “when you build over what is once a lake and you turn it into concrete, it will flood,” drawing attention to the potential consequences of transforming natural spaces into residential areas. The communal concern was underscored by references to flooding experiences in neighboring regions like Venetian Bay.

Legal considerations were also brought to the forefront by Victor Lopez, who read a letter from Ansbacher Law, representing the Spruce Creek Property Owners Association. This letter urged the council to adhere to existing land development codes and maintain the waiting period to prevent repeated applications that might undermine the planning process.

Several residents and community leaders echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of the watershed study results before making any decisions. Meredith Cassandra noted the importance of waiting for the study, stating, “just because someone purchases attractive land and gets it annexed into the city does not mean that it automatically is assumed that it gets to be rezoned.” This sentiment was mirrored by Brian White of Thousand Friends of Florida, who warned against setting a precedent that could destabilize the fairness of the development process.

Despite the debate, the council ultimately decided not to waive the 12-month waiting period, which was met with approval from the community members present.

In addition to the debate over Vintage Acres, the council meeting also addressed economic incentives and job training initiatives. As part of the Eastport Business Center Community Redevelopment Agency session, the council approved an Economic Incentive Agreement for BLK Boom Trucks LLC, a Toronto-based company looking to relocate to Port Orange. This agreement included reimbursement for previous costs incurred, as well as ongoing expenses related to environmental monitoring near a bald eagle’s nest. The company plans to create new jobs in the area, starting with about 40 employees, which aligns with the city’s focus on workforce development.

Parks and Recreation Director Susan Lavalo presented a report on upcoming holiday events and ongoing projects. Events include a free Thanksgiving dinner, holiday markets, and various festive activities aimed at engaging the community. Lavalo also highlighted the progress of park renovations and expansions, such as the Willow Run Park and City Center Sports Complex, both nearing their final design stages.

The meeting further covered the city’s efforts to address safety concerns related to electric bikes, particularly their use on sidewalks. With reports of near-miss incidents involving pedestrians, the council discussed the need for consistent regulations and safety measures across municipalities. Legislative efforts at the state level to standardize ebike regulations were noted, emphasizing the importance of helmet use and adherence to speed limits, particularly for younger riders.

Additionally, community outreach and support initiatives were highlighted, including the “Back in Blue” toy donation program by the police department and the Art House’s efforts to engage with the community despite financial challenges. The council received updates on various city services, including the First Step Shelter’s positive outcomes and Art House’s visitor engagement.