Volusia County Council Approves Tax Exemption for Affordable Housing Units

Overview: In a special session, the Volusia County Council unanimously approved a motion to exempt certain affordable housing units from property taxes, targeting households earning between 80% and 120% of the area median income (AMI).

Volusia Planning Commission Debates Shipping Container Rules, Faces Zoning Challenges

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Volusia Planning Commission, members tackled issues surrounding the regulation of shipping containers as accessory structures, the complexities of zoning changes, and updates to the county’s Capital Improvements plan. The commission’s discussions were marked by concerns over compliance, community impact, and the need for clarification in existing codes.

Port Orange Considers Replacing Billboards with LED Signs for Cleaner City and Emergency Messaging

Overview: The Port Orange Planning Commission recently discussed a proposed Land Development Code (LDC) amendment aimed at removing billboards within the city limits and replacing existing ones along the I-95 corridor with LED message board signs. This initiative intends to reduce visual clutter in the city and enhance public safety by enabling emergency messages on these new signs.

Port Orange Residents Demand Better Communication on Stormwater and Utility Issues

Overview: At the recent Port Orange City Council meeting, residents expressed mounting frustration over the slow progress of stormwater improvement projects and utility management issues. A resident of the Beacon Woods subdivision critiqued the perceived lack of advancement on a $50 million stormwater project initiated after Hurricane Ian. Meanwhile, other residents voiced complaints about inaccurate water meter readings, urging the council for more transparency and effective communication strategies.

Volusia Forever Advisory Committee Reviews High-Priced Property for Conservation Amid Expansion Plans

Overview: Volusia Forever Advisory Committee’s recent meeting focused on several significant conservation projects, most notably the eligibility evaluation of the John Anderson Drive property and updates on the Valua Conservation Corridor expansion. The meeting also covered discussions on agricultural easements, conservation funding opportunities, and future meeting schedules.