The meeting commenced with a proclamation for World Encephalitis Day, to be observed on February 22nd, 2025. Ken and Cat Atwood, who have been instrumental in promoting awareness of this rare and often misdiagnosed disease, shared their personal experiences and the challenges associated with encephalitis diagnosis and treatment. Ken highlighted the rarity of his condition, noting, “my personal marker is reported medically to have less than one person in a million.” The Atwoods have been active in raising awareness through their Facebook page, Team Atwood, which serves as an educational platform. Their efforts have gained international recognition, with Volusia County’s initiatives making headlines globally.

Cat Atwood announced an upcoming event on November 8th, the Port Orange catwalk, aimed at promoting inclusivity for individuals with varying abilities. This event will coincide with a conference featuring a renowned UK doctor, focusing on educating local healthcare professionals about encephalitis diagnosis challenges. The council expressed deep appreciation for the Atwoods’ dedication, with a unanimous agreement to illuminate the lake and display signs in recognition of Encephalitis Day, consistent with previous efforts.

The condition of the local boat ramp and its impending renovations were another focal point. The mayor outlined the project, explaining that the boat ramp would undergo significant repairs, necessitating closure for six to eight months. The project, initially set to start in May, was pushed to August 1 to avoid the peak boating seasons of May, June, and July. The necessity of these renovations was underscored by the mayor’s statement, “It’s got to get done,” highlighting the ramp’s vital role for both residents and visitors. Discussions included potential temporary dredging to improve access to the north side ramps during construction.

Concerns were raised about the timing of the project, with some fearing it might lead to disputes among boaters during busy periods. The feasibility of partially opening the ramp during construction was debated but eventually deemed impractical due to safety concerns. The city engineer noted that despite efforts to find temporary solutions for dock access, no viable options have been identified. The project aims to build a more durable facility, focusing on long-term functionality and resilience.

The council’s agenda also included updates on community development in hurricane-affected areas. The city manager reported proactive efforts by the Community Development staff to assist residents, particularly in the Colony in the Woods area, where homes suffered significant hurricane damage. Meetings were organized to guide residents through the elevation process and discuss available funding sources, with county staff participation to address drainage infrastructure concerns. The emphasis on collaboration between city and county agencies was highlighted as crucial for providing residents with necessary support and information.

In other matters, the council discussed potential amendments to ordinances, including updates to water testing manuals and cross-connection control regulations. Adjustments to the water testing manual, aligning with state guidelines, resulted in operational savings of approximately $80,000. The council also reviewed Ordinance Number 2025-06, designating the city attorney as the registered agent for service acceptance, and Ordinance Number 2025-07, which amends the cross-connection control ordinance to update references and establish necessary protections.

The council addressed a special event request for Bike Week 2025, initially separated from the consent agenda due to plans for extended vendor operation hours. The applicant clarified compliance with city codes, leading to council approval of the event. Reports from community organizations, such as the Port Orange South Daytona Chamber of Commerce, highlighted local business growth and upcoming events, including the mayor’s dinner and a ribbon-cutting for the Catfish Commons project.