The commission engaged in a discussion about Resolution No. 2025-30, concerning the proposed development of an Ellianos Coffee drive-thru on West Granada Boulevard. This location is part of a larger shopping center that includes an upcoming Aldi and existing businesses like Taco Bell. Planning Director Steven Spraker detailed the development plan, which includes adjustments to the landscape buffer and a waiver for one vehicle stacking space, required due to the drive-thru setup.

Traffic flow emerged as the primary concern, with commissioners expressing apprehension about increased congestion in an already busy area. One commissioner noted existing traffic issues, describing the parking lot as “kind of already a traffic jam.” The Planning Board had previously recommended denying the project due to these concerns, despite its location within a concurrency exception redevelopment area. This designation allows certain developments to proceed without meeting standard concurrency requirements for traffic infrastructure improvements.

Christopher Gamier, representing the applicant, defended the project by explaining that the coffee shop’s traffic patterns differ from those of grocery stores. He argued that peak coffee shop traffic occurs in the early morning, which does not coincide with the peak hours of the neighboring supermarket. Gamier emphasized that the coffee shop would attract local traffic and potentially revitalize the shopping center by drawing more visitors to the area. He also highlighted a landscape betterment plan aimed at enhancing the site aesthetically.

Despite these assurances, the commissioners remained divided on the project’s viability, particularly concerning its impact on traffic patterns. Commissioner Briley expressed reservations about the potential for traffic congestion, stating, “I’m still on the no vote on this because I still see traffic flow problems with that parking lot.” The debate extended to the two exceptions required for the project, with some commissioners supporting the landscape improvements while remaining skeptical about the drive-thru’s vehicle stacking space.

Aside from the discussion on Ellianos Coffee, the commission addressed several resolutions and ordinances. Resolution No. 2025-09, involving the appointment of trustees to the Police Officers’ Pension Trust Fund Board, was approved unanimously after clarifying concerns about dual office holding provisions. Resolution No. 2025-20 saw the appointment of Greg Stokes to the Ormond Beach Housing Authority, replacing the initially proposed candidate, Lindsey Wolf. Commissioners praised Stokes for his extensive community involvement and knowledge.

The commission also approved Ordinance No. 2024-36, which vacates a portion of Corbin Avenue within Cassen Park, and Ordinance No. 2024-37, which allows for a first amended development order for a planned business development on South Atlantic Avenue. These approvals were part of a series of ordinances aimed at refining city zoning and land development codes.

Infrastructure updates were another focal point of the meeting, with City Manager Joyce Shanahan reporting on the planned replacement of a damaged structure at Andy Romano Park, coupled with ongoing seawall improvements. The replacement aims to minimize park closures by coordinating construction timelines. Additionally, the playground at Magic Forest at Nova requires repairs due to hurricane damage, with work expected to begin soon.

The issue of homelessness in Ormond Beach was raised, highlighting increased transient populations and new homeless camps. Commissioner Deaton suggested holding a workshop to develop a strategic plan to address homelessness, drawing on strategies from neighboring municipalities.