The primary focus of the meeting was the case of a DeLand property located on East New York Avenue, which was converted into a funeral home after being purchased in 2024. The variance sought to separate this parcel from an adjacent one under the B4 general commercial zoning classification. The property has a history of diverse uses, including a barber shop, hair salon, car sales location, and an arcade. However, modifications for the funeral home were completed without required permits, resulting in an active code enforcement case. The applicant now needs a general renovation building permit to address this compliance issue.

During the proceedings, the applicant expressed appreciation for the planning staff’s assistance in navigating the process, which took over a year due to organizational staffing changes and existing property regulations. The commission unanimously approved the variance, with one condition attached, after confirming there were no public objections.

In other business, it was noted that two applications related to the B&B Osteen Burough Pit had been withdrawn. These applications for a special exception and variance were initially set for review again in February, but the applicant decided to withdraw, with plans to potentially pivot to a different proposal.