Detailed deliberations occurred over the DeBary Alexander Island Phase One project, which requested exceptional grant status due to its anticipated value to the community, potential to preserve open space, and contribute to ecotourism. While some committee members supported the project, others questioned its readiness and the level of support and partnerships, as well as the projected attendance numbers. Despite varying opinions, the project’s representatives defended their projections and emphasized the anticipated development in the area, which could increase visitor numbers.

The committee also engaged in discussions about other projects, such as the Civil Village Improvement Association’s Historic Civil School Restoration, which sought funding for the preservation of historic properties. The organization’s financial stability, fundraising efforts, and local community support were topics of debate, highlighting the project’s alignment with ECHO program objectives.

Applications from the cities of Ormond Beach, Port Orange, and New Smyrna Beach for community park improvements, playground enhancements, and skate park expansion, respectively, were presented and scored. The Ormond Beach project received a high score, making it eligible for advancement to the County Council, whereas the skate park expansion faced scrutiny over the delay in the RFP design-build process and the lack of visual project representations, ultimately not moving forward.

Concerns about the readiness of projects for exceptional grant status were a recurring theme. The City of Edgewater’s application for Hawks Park pickleball courts faced questions about drainage and the heavy focus on civil engineering. Despite this, the project’s long-term vision received positive feedback, though it did not meet the 80% requirement for advancement.

Stetson University’s application for the Sandra Stetson Aquatic Center’s shoreline restoration and public access enhancements prompted debate on marketing efforts and the necessity of public access.

The Volusia ECHO Advisory Committee also addressed the allocation of funds for projects across different districts, with discussions on improvements to parks and facilities totaling $1.8 million. In District 2, an adjustment requested an additional $2 million for the Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve, emphasizing the educational components and the site’s historical significance.

Furthermore, there was a notable conversation about the Lake Helen Creative Arts Cafe’s non-compliance with the grant, resulting in an invoice for reimbursement of $6,126. A member proposed a two-step process for making projects shovel-ready to reduce barriers for applicants, which led to a broader discussion on improving the application process and fund utilization.

Additionally, some members emphasized the need for better marketing of projects and suggested that the county could take a more active role in promoting them, potentially with a portion of ECHO funds dedicated to marketing.

Reviewing the grant application process was another focal point, with concerns raised about the scoring system’s alignment with the application. Data presented on project completion times under old and new rules led to suggestions for two grant cycles to accommodate projects not ready for the initial cycle.