Mike Panowski, a resident of Tomoka Farms, presented a case about flooding issues exacerbated by nearby developments. He highlighted that the city of Port Orange had annexed adjacent cow pastures, leading to the construction of nearly 1,000 homes and apartments. According to Panowski, these developments raised the land by 6 to 8 feet to mitigate flooding, which diverted water to his property, causing significant damage. Panowski’s emotional plea emphasized, “Imagine that all the water that fell on that land for thousands of years being absorbed in the more adequate ecosystem must now go elsewhere,” underscoring the recurring damage his property has suffered. He urged the council to consider the ramifications of further development plans, such as a proposed 100-apartment complex on an 18.5-acre property, which he and 800 other families in Tomoka Farms Village opposed.

Other residents echoed similar concerns. John Nicholson warned the council about potential flooding problems in older marshland areas like LPGA, stressing that developments that raise ground levels could lead to water displacement issues. He also requested a meeting to discuss offshore reefs, which he believed could mitigate storm damage, and criticized the aesthetic changes along A1A, particularly the installation of numerous yellow signs, arguing, “We’re a tourist destination.”

Environmental issues related to a property known as Bader were also brought to attention by Connie Colby, who cited an environmental study that counted 18,000 trees on the property slated for significant fill. Colby questioned the developer’s property rights, emphasizing the legal complexities and environmental impact of such developments.

In another discussion, Crystal Zius, identifying herself as a homeless resident, accused a District 2 representative of forcing her and her daughter into homelessness by breaking a verbal agreement regarding their rental situation. Zius described her daughter’s need for stability, stating, “My artistic daughter thrives on familiarity all of which was heartlessly stolen from her.” Her remarks led to a reminder from a council member about maintaining decorum during public comments.

The meeting also saw an appeal from attorney Laura Clner on behalf of John Peligra, who sought an exception to Ordinance 2024-25 concerning sex offender registration. Clner explained that Peligra, who was released from the Department of Corrections on May 24, 2024, missed the registration deadline by 23 days due to unfamiliarity with the ordinance. Clner and Peligra’s mother, Cindy Peligra, urged the council to facilitate an amendment or exception to the ordinance, highlighting broader issues of homelessness among sex offenders in Volusia County.

On the agenda, the council confirmed Tamara Malus as the division director of beach safety. Malus’s extensive background, including 27 years of service in various roles, was highlighted, with council members expressing their support and emphasizing the importance of addressing lifeguard staffing issues on the beaches.

Keith Norton, President and CEO of Team Volusia, presented an update on economic development efforts, stressing the importance of marketing the county for business recruitment. Norton outlined initiatives targeting specific sectors like aviation, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing, and shared metrics from their outreach activities, including successful interactions with companies like Amazon.

The council also discussed the continuation of the “Regrow the Loop” pilot program aimed at enhancing the Ormond Beach area through public-private partnerships. The program engaged 442 participants in education about invasive species and promoting native plants. Vice Chair Troy Kent advocated for continued investment in the program, emphasizing its positive results and community involvement, and made a motion to proceed with the initiative under public sector leadership, which passed with support.

Another agenda item was the extension of the interlocal service boundary agreement (ISBA) with the city of Ormond Beach for an additional ten years. The ISBA facilitates orderly annexation processes and provides land use zoning and building authority for properties wishing to annex into the city. A council member raised concerns about the long-term commitment, but it was clarified that the agreement includes a five-year review provision.

Lastly, the council addressed changes to beach access fees, proposing a $30 daily rate for non-residents while maintaining no additional charges for residents. A sunset provision was included, requiring re-evaluation of the fees by January 31, 2026. Public comments reflected mixed opinions, with concerns about financial implications and the potential impact on beach access and capacity.