One resident, Suzanne Shyer, representing Green Volusia, outlined several reasons for opposing the paving project. She stated that road development would alter the park’s hydrology, negatively impact wildlife through habitat fragmentation, and risk damaging the historically significant nocoroco archaeological site. Shyer emphasized the lack of transparency in the project’s approval process and argued that funds allocated for paving could be better spent on urgent park maintenance needs, such as replacing outdated park ranger vehicles. She also pointed out that paving could exacerbate flooding issues on nearby scenic routes and suggested resurfacing the road with environmentally friendly materials instead.

James Smith and Ariel Cavanaugh supported Shyer’s arguments, stressing the importance of preserving the park’s natural state. Cavanaugh reminisced about the unique experience of driving on a dirt road and its significance for safety and wildlife. She argued that paving would invite speeding vehicles, detracting from the park’s natural charm. Katherine Pante added that paving roads could lead to significant ecological harm, highlighting potential carcinogenic effects of asphalt. She urged the commission to oppose the project and protect the park’s wildlife habitats.

One commission member shared insights from conversations with the FDEP, noting that the paving project was initiated in response to visitor feedback about potholes affecting larger RVs. They acknowledged a preference among many for maintaining the park’s natural aesthetic but argued that paving would protect the underlying land and prevent further degradation. An archaeologist would be on-site during the paving to safeguard sensitive areas, they stated.

Contrasting viewpoints emerged, with another member expressing strong opposition to the paving, insisting that it would detract from the park’s natural beauty and the unique experience it offers. They highlighted concerns about increased vehicle speeds and safety risks, preferring that funds intended for paving be redirected towards improving existing amenities and restoring historical assets within the park.

Environmental issues were a focus throughout the meeting. Residents voiced concerns about local environmental issues, including a proposed road development project in Tomoka State Park and the state of a canal integral to the city’s stormwater drainage plan. Ron Morrison, representing homeowners from the Hidden Hills development, described problems resulting from city efforts to mitigate flooding and erosion. He requested a $5,000 contribution from the city to assist with a $24,000 restoration project initiated by homeowners, arguing that the city’s previous actions had exacerbated the situation, leading to stagnant waters and health concerns due to mosquito proliferation.

The fiscal year 2024-2025 budget was another major topic of discussion. The commission opened a public hearing to address resolution number 2024-130, which outlines the proposed millage rates. The final millage rate was set at 4.96 Mills, 12.82% above the rollback rate of 3.635 Mills. The debt service millage for the 2010 General Obligation Bond was noted to be 0.065. A resident, Joe Hanoush, voiced concerns about property taxes and suggested budget reallocations to reduce costs, advocating for a more market-driven approach to attracting businesses without financial incentives. He criticized the use of tax dollars for paving at a park, favoring natural landscapes instead.

Following public comments, the commission unanimously approved the final operating millage rate and budget, confirming a budget of $131,976,868. The public hearing was then closed.

During audience remarks, Jennifer Bright referenced the UN Earth Summit of 1992, expressing concerns about local governance under the guise of sustainability initiatives. She suggested that citizens are often unaware of the implications of these planning and zoning efforts, particularly when developers are involved. Russell Bennett raised a budgetary concern about trash collection frequency, proposing that the city could save money by reducing garbage pickup from twice a week to once. Elizabeth Bonds echoed Bennett’s sentiment and emphasized the need to protect natural spaces, referencing a delayed land purchase for the Ford Marsh property.

Other discussions included a cooperative economic development agreement between the city and Team Volusia Economic Development Corporation, transparency regarding expenditures, and a proposal from Cathedral Corporation for utility billing services. Concerns were raised about the auto-renewal of a grounds maintenance agreement with Yellowstone Landscape, with requests for more documentation before making a decision.

The meeting concluded with the announcement of the primary municipal election results, congratulating newly elected commissioner Kristin Deaton. Future meeting dates and upcoming community events were also highlighted.