A significant highlight was the city’s recognition of Commissioner Susan Persis for her service from 2018 to 2024. The meeting included a formal ceremony honoring Persis with a plaque, a clock, and a coin. A proclamation declared November 6, 2024, as a day to celebrate her contributions to the city. The proclamation highlighted Persis’s 35 years as an Ormond Beach resident and her involvement in various public service roles, including her work with Volusia County Schools. Persis expressed her gratitude, stating, “I have so enjoyed serving on this commission… it’s been my pleasure… I will always love Ormond Beach; it’s my home.” Her departure was met with applause, acknowledging her impact on the community.

Attention then shifted to the city’s recovery efforts following the recent impact of Hurricane Milton. Assistant City Manager Shawn Finley provided an update, detailing the timeline of hurricane preparedness efforts that began in early August. More than 10,000 sandbags were distributed to residents as the storm approached. Finley reported that the Water Reclamation Facility recorded a staggering 23 inches of rainfall during the storm, far exceeding the 11 inches typically expected during a 100-year storm event. This deluge resulted in significant flooding in low-lying areas, such as Fleming Avenue, where water levels swiftly rose from passable conditions at 3:00 AM to 12 to 18 inches of flooding by 7:00 AM. A map was presented to illustrate the extent of the flooding and the properties affected, with 44 to 45 homes confirmed to have flooded.

The hurricane’s impact on infrastructure was also notable, with damage to production wells and power outages affecting 56 sanitary sewer lift stations. Emergency repairs were necessary, including fixing a water main break on North John Anderson and addressing issues with a force main on Riverside Drive. Recovery efforts have been robust, with Crowder Gulf activated shortly after the storm to assist with debris removal. Currently, ten trucks are operating daily, collecting approximately 3,000 cubic yards of vegetative debris each day, with over 50,000 cubic yards collected so far and an estimated 150,000 cubic yards remaining.

Residents expressed concerns about flooding during the public comment section. Mr. Tommy Boseman highlighted persistent flooding issues in Durance Acres, emphasizing the risks posed to emergency services and voicing frustration over the lack of action despite residents paying stormwater fees. Jennifer Bright raised issues regarding resolutions on the consent agenda, questioning financial transparency and accountability concerning project management and infrastructure costs.

The commission also addressed legislative matters, including the approval of several ordinances. These included updates to outdoor activity conditions, budget amendments for the fiscal year, and amendments to the Police Officers’ Pension Trust Fund. Notably, discussions emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in financial decisions affecting the city.

Infrastructure improvements continued to be a focal point, with updates on the city’s lead pipe inventory program. Assistant City Manager Shawn Finley reassured residents about the low incidence of lead use in construction materials in Ormond Beach and outlined proactive measures, including a water main replacement program. Communication efforts are underway to ensure residents are informed about their service line status, with plans to disseminate information through social media for broader outreach.