Public Meetings - Deltona, Florida

The Deltona City Commission held a Special Meeting on Monday, June 23, 2025, at 6:30 PM in the Deltona Commission Chambers, immediately following a workshop. The meeting addressed a proposed vote of no confidence in the City Manager, the FY2024 audit presentation by Purvis Gray, a reduction in procurement spending authority, direction for a forensic/compliance audit, a temporary residential development moratorium (Ordinance No. 29-2025), and the July 4th event policy. The meeting adjourned at 10:25 PM. Opening & Agenda - A motion by Commissioner Santiago, seconded by Vice Mayor Heriot, to delete agenda item 5-A (vote of no confidence) failed by a vote of 3-4. For: Mayor Avila, Vice Mayor Heriot, Commissioner Santiago. Against: Commissioner Avila-Vazquez, Commissioner Colwell, Commissioner Howington, Commissioner Lulli. Action Item: Request for a Vote of No Confidence for the City Manager - Commissioner Colwell, who requested the item, cited lack of information needed to perform his duties, denials or "no records exist" responses to public records requests (PRRs), concerns about enforcement of the Golden Book, management's absence without commissioner notification, and commissioners not receiving the same information. - Commissioner Howington stated that a City Manager's role is to implement policy, not create it, obstruct it, or reprimand the Commission; she cited poor communication, repeated oversteps of authority, difficulty obtaining financial details, and the Halifax Crossings matter being placed back on the agenda against the Commission's stated wish to table it. - Commissioner Avila-Vazquez clarified her concerns were about her personal interactions with the City Manager and lack of information sharing, not his overall job performance. She cited policies and operating guidelines being updated without Commission approval, new directors not being formally introduced, and a travel policy she says was followed without Commission adoption. - Vice Mayor Heriot expressed strong support for the City Manager, citing positive feedback from outside agencies (e.g., St. Johns River Water Management District) and overwhelming community support. - Commissioner Santiago praised the City Manager's accomplishments, including building a leadership team, obtaining grants, improving employee morale, and community events. - Commissioner Lulli proposed a less formal, off-site Commission work session rather than a no-confidence vote, saying it could accomplish the same goals without "hitting the reset button." - City Attorney Torcivia flagged that all PRRs are treated the same regardless of requester; cities are not obligated to answer requests for information or create records that do not exist, and a better path for commissioners is direct requests to the City Manager. - The City Manager responded at length, noting 3,782 emails from commissioners over the previous eight months, listing grants and accomplishments, clarifying the travel policy and Golden Book budget, and stating he is the seventh City Manager since 2020 and possibly the sixteenth in 30 years. He said he asked employees not to speak in his favor out of concern they could be negatively affected. - Motion by Commissioner Lulli, seconded by Vice Mayor Heriot, to conduct an off-site, publicly noticed work session under the Sunshine Law to discuss the issues underlying the no-confidence vote, with logistics finalized with the City Attorney's Office. The motion carried 7-0. Presentation: FY2024 Audit Discussion with Purvis Gray, CPA - Tim Westgate (Audit Partner) and Laurie Walker (Audit Supervisor) from Purvis Gray presented the audit for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2024. - The audit received a clean (unmodified) opinion with no material weaknesses, no significant deficiencies, and no non-compliance items, including under Florida Statute 218.415 for investment of public funds. The federal single audit was also clean for major programs: Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds and Disaster Grant Public Assistance. - The general fund's total fund balance landed at 778 million (as stated during the presentation), following more than 10 years of increases. The water and sewer fund also increased and maintains strong working capital. - The employee retirement fund increased by $7.8 million to an ending balance of $52 million, with a funded position of 86%, up from approximately 75.8% in the prior year, driven largely by investment performance. - The prior year's delinquent IRS Form 1095-C filings were resolved with the assistance of an outside specialist and the city attorney; the liability was reversed and not recorded in the current year. - Recommendations below the reporting threshold included refining the period-end closing process to return to a timely reporting cycle and establishing an IT risk assessment program related to the Florida Cybersecurity Act. - In response to commissioners' questions, Mr. Westgate said there were no audit adjustments, no indication of anyone altering the books, and no trends suggesting financial trouble or bankruptcy. He explained the difference between financial, compliance, and forensic audits and noted that a forensic audit would depend on an identified scope, with each scope potentially costing around $100,000 or more. Discussion Items - 7-A: Procurement Policies and Procedures amendment. A motion by Commissioner Colwell, seconded by Commissioner Lulli, to reduce departmental spending authority to anything over $25,000 requiring Commission approval was discussed. Commissioner Santiago argued the $50,000 threshold was already low for the largest city in Volusia County and that $25,000 would hinder processes. Commissioner Howington supported $25,000, noting it had been in play for 30 years and that trust issues warranted a lower threshold. Public comment included concerns about roughly 22 exceptions in the policy, including an emergency provision involving the mayor's signature, and arguments for checks and balances. The City Manager noted neighboring cities' thresholds are $75,000, $100,000, and $125,000, and that the Golden Book was budgeted at $60,000 but came in at $28,000, which would still require Commission approval under the new threshold. The motion carried 4-3. For: Commissioner Avila-Vazquez, Commissioner Colwell, Commissioner Howington, Commissioner Lulli. Against: Mayor Avila, Vice Mayor Heriot, Commissioner Santiago. - 7-B: Request for approval of a forensic audit and a compliance audit. Commissioner Howington moved, seconded by Commissioner Lulli, that auditors report directly to the City Commission with unfettered access to city records. Discussion addressed costs (estimated at $80,000-$100,000 per scope, possibly up to $1 million), the need for a defined scope and RFP process, the alternative of an in-house internal auditor, and the possibility of involving Florida DOGE. Purvis Gray reiterated that nothing material was identified and recommended considering an internal auditor position. City Attorney Good suggested a workshop to generate the scope. An amended motion by Commissioner Lulli, seconded by Commissioner Howington, directed a workshop to generate the scope for an RFP, with the workshop posted at the end of August and the award to come before the Commission no later than five months from the date the scope is finalized. The amended motion carried 6-1 (Commissioner Santiago opposed). A subsequent motion to extend the meeting by 20 minutes carried 7-0. - 7-C: Public Hearing – Ordinance No. 29-2025 (Temporary Moratorium on Residential Development). The Planning & Development Services Director and City Attorney presented the ordinance, which would impose a moratorium of up to nine months on residential development orders, permits, applications, rezonings, and plan amendments. The presentation covered the Bert Harris Act, relevant takings case law, exemptions (commercial/industrial/office/school projects, city-owned or CRA-owned land, projects with approved site plans or plats prior to June 30, and Exhibit A projects), and Senate Bill 180's legislative risk, which could retroactively invalidate the moratorium and expose the city to attorney's fees. The Planning & Zoning Board had voted 4-3 to recommend approval with three refinements: exempt infill residential development, exempt mixed-use developments (under six residential units per acre and less than 30% residential), and an automatic sunset if SB 180 becomes law. Vice Mayor Heriot opposed the moratorium as rushed and risky, citing progress on stormwater code updates and impact fees. Public comment was split, with several residents urging approval to address flooding and infrastructure, and others raising property rights and legal concerns. The City Attorney gave rough litigation-cost estimates of $200,000-$600,000 to sue the state. Commissioner Howington moved, seconded by Commissioner Colwell, to approve the P&Z-recommended version minus the SB 180 sunset, keeping infill and mixed-use exemptions; she later accepted an amendment by Commissioner Lulli, seconded by herself, to remove the mixed-use exemption. The amended motion carried 4-3. For: Commissioner Avila-Vazquez, Commissioner Colwell, Commissioner Howington, Commissioner Lulli. Against: Mayor Avila, Vice Mayor Heriot, Commissioner Santiago. A motion to extend the meeting by 30 minutes carried 6-1 (Vice Mayor Heriot opposed). - 7-D: July 4th event inclusivity. The City Manager requested removal of the item from the agenda, stating he had heard the feedback in Deltona and would change the policy to allow political vendors at the festival. The item was withdrawn with the statement placed on the record. Public Comments & Testimony - On the no-confidence vote: Glenn Whitcomb (city resident and employee) and CJ (steward for Local 2913, Deltona Professional Firefighters, representing 84 operations personnel) expressed strong support for the City Manager, citing improved morale and accomplishments. David Stewart thanked the City Manager for communication and leadership. Victoria Soustar and Matthew Shaw also spoke in support; Mr. Shaw characterized the criticism as a "power struggle" rather than a performance issue. Pat Northy (former County Council member and current P&Z Board member) was critical of the meeting's handling, and Rob Trombetta urged the City Manager to take responsibility for repairing relationships with commissioners. Kathy Bryan, Courtney Crossberg, David Santiago, Albert Bryan, and Lindsay Briones called for improved communication and a healing process. - On procurement policy: David Sosa objected to missing agenda links and cited roughly 22 exceptions in the procurement policy, questioning an emergency provision allowing the mayor to sign off. Rob Trombetta asked the Commission to keep the $50,000 threshold. Kathy Bryan suggested a compromise at $37,500. Albert Bryan argued the original $25,000 limit existed for checks and balances. Tara Diarrigo said bringing already-budgeted items back for approval seemed duplicative. - On the forensic/compliance audit: David Sosa stressed the need to define scope and "fraud," citing a prior $200,000 water department audit that he said became a study. Albert Bryan supported the audit, citing inconsistencies between paper budget books and digital budget books for the Rhode Island fund. Jody Lee supported an audit and referenced a prior $100,000 impact-fee transfer into the general fund that he said was illegal. Carolyn Eckerson opposed spending $250,000 to $1 million on a "gotcha" audit. Elizabeth Chavez noted she had asked for an audit years ago. - On the moratorium: Larry French said the root cause is development practices and urged ecological design standards. Tim Lodge supported the moratorium as a safety measure for flooding and infrastructure. Robin French described permanent flooding damage to her property after Hurricane Ian and said "now is the time to change." Diane Anthony said the moratorium is "better than nothing" and criticized rezonings to smaller lots. Kathy Bryan urged a pause for smarter development and said schools are overcrowded. David Zouza supported the moratorium if commercial and infill lots are exempt, and suggested a class-action lawsuit against the state if SB 180 passes. Key Outcomes - The vote of no confidence in the City Manager was not held; instead, the Commission voted 7-0 to schedule an off-site, publicly noticed work session to discuss the underlying issues, with logistics to be finalized with the City Attorney's Office. - The FY2024 audit was presented as a clean report with no material weaknesses or findings; the IRS 1095-C issue was resolved at no cost to the city. - The Commission approved lowering the procurement spending authority threshold from $50,000 to $25,000, effective immediately and to be formalized via resolution, by a vote of 4-3. - The Commission directed a workshop at the end of August to generate the scope for an RFP for a forensic audit and compliance audit reporting to the Commission, with the award to return no later than five months after the scope is finalized, by a vote of 6-1. - Ordinance No. 29-2025 was approved at first reading, amended to remove the SB 180 sunset and the mixed-use exemption while keeping infill residential exemptions, by a vote of 4-3. - The July 4th event item was withdrawn; the City Manager committed to changing the policy to allow political vendors at the festival.

The City of Deltona City Commission held a workshop on June 23, 2025, to discuss elements of the upcoming FY2025-2026 budget. The primary focus was on debt issuance strategies tied to the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and a proposed change to how the city notifies property owners about special assessment increases. A representative from the city's financial advisory firm, Public Financial Management Group (PFM), presented the debt overview. Discussion Items - Debt Process and Current Profile: Jeremy Niedfeldt of PFM presented the city's debt policies and current outstanding debt of $150 million, roughly three-quarters of which is utility debt. The city has not issued new debt since 2021. - Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and Planned Financing: The Five-Year Master Plan identifies roughly $200 million in priority projects (agenda/minutes cite $205 million). Planned funding sources include $35 million in new debt, $75 million in cash and grants, leaving approximately $100 million unfunded. Key near-term projects include a $50 million water/wastewater project ($22 million debt financed) and a $20 million fire station project ($7 million debt financed). City Manager John McKinney noted these figures are from the May 3rd preliminary workshop and are subject to change, especially regarding fire station funding. - Unfunded Project Breakdown: Staff detailed specific unfunded needs, including $17.5 million for water/wastewater projects, $1 million for parks, and $14 million for stormwater projects. - Debt Financing Options: PFM outlined options including bond transactions for long-life assets (e.g., water treatment plants, large buildings) and bank loans for shorter-life assets (e.g., fire engines, smaller projects). Bank loans offer a cheaper and faster process (3-4 months) compared to bonds (4-6 months). - Credit Rating Discussion: Vice Mayor Heriot inquired about the city's credit rating. Mr. Niedfeldt confirmed a strong "AA" category credit rating, resulting in a trading spread of 30 to 40 basis points over the treasury curve. - Ad Valorem Tax Concerns and Backup Plans: Commissioner Howington raised significant concerns about the potential state-level elimination of property taxes and the city's backup plan for debt repayment. The City Manager acknowledged the risk, noting that ad valorem revenues account for a third of the general fund budget, and committed to presenting conservative projections at the next workshop. Commissioner Lulli pointed out that the bulk of the considered debt is for the utility enterprise fund, which relies solely on user fees and not ad valorem taxes. - Fire Station Studies and Transparency: Commissioner Avila-Vazquez expressed frustration about the lack of communication regarding proposed fire station locations in her district. Fire Chief Schneider confirmed that studies from Finch & Associates and data from Dark Horse analytics have been completed. He promised a full presentation to the entire commission, including specific station locations and training center plans, at the upcoming workshop. - Water Rate Study: Commissioner Howington asked if utility debt would necessitate raising water rates. Staff confirmed that the ongoing rate study by a consultant will incorporate this five-year outlook, and raising rates is a potential outcome. - Special Assessment Notifications: The Finance Director proposed changing the notification method for increases in special assessments (stormwater, solid waste) from standalone mailed letters to using the TRIM (Truth in Millage) notice. This change is permissible under Florida Statute 197 and would combine the notification with the parcel owners' existing TRIM mailings. - Savings Discrepancy: A discrepancy exists in the reported savings. The Finance Director stated in the transcript that the change would save the city $34,000 this fiscal year (compared to estimated $36,000 standalone cost). However, the meeting minutes record the savings as $43,000. - Vice Mayor Heriot clarified that property owners would still receive written notification annually via the integrated TRIM notice. Public Comments & Testimony - Courtney Crossbergs addressed the commission reflecting constituent concerns. She asked if impact fee increases were being considered in the budget, which staff confirmed. She also asked whether the budget discussions encompassed a fire training center in addition to new stations and if that center had been formally approved by the commission. The Mayor and City Manager reiterated that no formal approval for any debt issuance or specific projects has been granted by the commission and that the workshops involved preliminary discussions only. Key Outcomes - No Formal Actions Taken: The workshop was informational. No votes were taken on debt issuance, the CIP, or the specific budget figures. The City Manager explicitly stated that none of the plans discussed have been approved by the commission. - Direction to Staff: Staff was directed to create a dedicated tab within the budget documents for all FY2025-2026 presentations and related materials. - Special Assessment Notification Change: The commission appeared to support staff's recommendation to utilize the TRIM notice for special assessment notifications, shifting away from standalone mailings to achieve cost savings. - Upcoming Workshops Scheduled: Key budget and fire station discussions will continue in the following workshops: - July 14, 2025: Detailed discussion on the operating budget, fund balance allocation for capital projects, and conservative financial projections regarding potential state revenue changes. - July 21, 2025: Presentation of the proposed fire station locations and assessments, and setting maximum assessment rates.

The Deltona Planning and Zoning Board held a special meeting on June 23, 2025, at 4:30 PM to conduct a public hearing on Ordinance No. 29-2025, which proposed a temporary nine-month moratorium on residential development approvals. Following presentations from staff, extensive board discussion, and a failed motion to deny, the board voted 4-3 to recommend approval of the ordinance with specific conditions. The recommendation was forwarded to the City Commission for a first reading later that same evening. Public Comments & Testimony - The public forum was opened and closed with no comments from members of the public. Discussion Items - Public Hearing - Ordinance No. 29-2025 (Temporary Residential Moratorium): - Director Smith presented the rationale for the moratorium, citing a significant increase in residential activity and the need to evaluate infrastructure capacity before permitting further growth. - City Attorney Good provided legal context, discussing the Bert J. Harris Private Property Rights Protection Act, the First English Evangelical Lutheran Church v. Los Angeles County (1987) Supreme Court case regarding temporary takings, and a 2002 Attorney General opinion. He also flagged Senate Bill 180, pending the Governor’s signature, which could retroactively invalidate local moratoria enacted between 2024 and 2027. - The proposed moratorium was framed to last up to nine months and would not apply to commercial, industrial, office, or school projects, nor to vested projects listed in Exhibit A of the ordinance. - Member Trojanowski expressed strong support for the moratorium. He cited flooding issues in his HOA (Hampton Oaks) stemming from non-compliant retention ponds and stressed that the city has not updated impact fees in over ten years (since 2015). He stated there are 24 active development projects representing approximately 4,250 units. - Alternate French supported the moratorium, arguing it is necessary to revise the Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code (LDC) to address flawed development practices, environmental damage, and outdated engineering standards. He stated the changes staff is working on will take three to six months and the moratorium will help manage impacts until they are enacted. - Member Northey questioned the timeline for completing the moratorium’s stated goals (LDC and Comprehensive Plan update) and noted that staff is already working on these tasks, questioning the need for a pause. She recalled a previous moratorium did not result in action. - Member Stewart expressed concern that the moratorium could expose the city to costly litigation and financial burden, questioning whether it is a proper tool for ensuring staff accountability when progress is already being made. - Member Gonzalez echoed concerns about legal risk and taxpayer liability. He suggested tabling the item until the fate of SB 180 is known. - Alternate Zlatos expressed hesitation about rushing the process given the pending state legislation. - Vice Chair D’Errico led the discussion on crafting specific conditions. She asked if the ordinance could include a sunset clause triggering automatically if SB 180 is signed into law, which City Attorney Good confirmed was possible. She also sought clarification on the treatment of mixed-use developments and infill lots. - Staff confirmed that all multifamily developments are required to be mixed-use, and that mixed-use projects with any residential component were included in the moratorium. The board discussed exempting infill lots and setting a threshold for mixed-use exemptions (residential component no more than 30% and density fewer than 6 units per acre). Key Outcomes - Motion to Deny Ordinance 29-2025 (Failed 3-4): - Moved by Member Northey, seconded by Member Stewart. - For the denial: Members Gonzalez, Northey, and Stewart. - Against the denial: Vice Chair D’Errico, Member Trojanowski, Alternate French, and Alternate Zlatos. - Note: The official minutes list Secretary Rachel Amoroso as voting against the denial, though she was listed as excused at roll call. The transcript and the motion’s outcome support the tally provided here. - Motion to Approve Ordinance 29-2025 with Conditions (Passed 4-3): - Moved by Alternate French, seconded by Alternate Zlatos. - Conditions: 1. The moratorium will sunset automatically if Senate Bill 180 is signed by the Governor. 2. Infill lots are exempt from the moratorium. 3. Mixed-Use Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) are exempt if the residential component comprises no more than 30% of the development and is built at a density of fewer than six (6) units per acre. - For the approval: Vice Chair D’Errico, Member Gonzalez, Alternate French, and Alternate Zlatos. - Against the approval: Members Northey, Stewart, and Trojanowski. - Note: The official minutes list Alternate Lori Warnicke as voting for the motion, though she was listed as excused at roll call. The transcript and the motion’s outcome support the tally provided here. - Next Steps: The board’s recommendation was transmitted to the City Commission for its first reading on June 23, 2025. A second reading and final adoption was scheduled for June 30, 2025.

The Deltona Planning and Zoning Board met on June 18, 2025, and unanimously approved two ordinances updating the Land Development Code: Ordinance 24-2025, establishing architectural and building design standards for non-residential development, and Ordinance 20-2025, regulating metal buildings in residential zones. The board also passed a motion recommending that the City Commission review and update sections of the code related to parking, signs, and murals. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the May 21, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public forum or the public hearings for either ordinance. Discussion Items - Ordinance 24-2025 – Architectural and Building Design Standards: Consultant Alexis Crespo of Rvi Planning presented the proposed standards, which apply to all non-residential buildings (excluding residential and multifamily). The standards introduce four architectural styles (Florida, Mediterranean, Modern, Traditional), establish facade requirements (including glazing/windows, color palettes limited to 5 colors on large facades and 4 on buildings under 10,000 sq ft), and require site design elements such as enhanced buffers and parking lot screening. The board discussed the handling of murals, recommending they be addressed in a future sign code update rather than in the architectural standards. Other topics included the use of Florida-friendly and water-absorbing trees, pedestrian and bike connectivity, parking lot layout (concerns about headlight glare and double row parking), and drive-through pedestrian safety. Board members expressed broad support for the standards while suggesting refinements to language on parking definitions and plant species selection. The board also noted that existing non-conforming buildings remain legal, and redevelopment projects over 2,000 sq ft would trigger the standards. - Ordinance 20-2025 – Metal Building Regulations: Planning Manager Matthew West presented the ordinance, which clarifies the definition of a metal building (over 240 sq ft with more than 30% metal cladding) and prohibits them in standard residential zones (R-1) unless mitigated by design treatments (e.g., siding) to match the character of the neighborhood. The ordinance does not apply to Agricultural or Residential Estate zoning districts. The board discussed impacts on hobbyists and existing structures, confirming that existing metal buildings become legal non-conforming and that metal sheds under 240 sq ft remain unaffected. The board approved the ordinance as a first reading. - Staff Comments and Board Recommendations: City Attorney Good advised that any code amendment suggestions beyond the items under review require a separate motion and majority vote. The board then made a formal motion to recommend the City Commission update the Land Development Code sections on parking, signs, and murals. Additionally, staff noted that a special P&Z meeting is scheduled for June 23, 2025, and that the City Commission denied a prohibition on medical marijuana dispensaries, necessitating code revisions. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve Ordinance 24-2025 (Architectural and Building Design Standards): Approved unanimously (7-0). The ordinance will proceed to the City Commission. - Motion to approve Ordinance 20-2025 (Metal Building Regulations): Approved unanimously (7-0) on first reading, with second reading scheduled for August 2025. - Motion to recommend City Commission review of parking, sign, and mural codes: Approved unanimously (7-0). This motion formalized board suggestions made during discussion. - Next Steps: Staff to incorporate board comments on design standards; sign code rewrite to include murals; parking code update to include bike facilities; future discussion on green technology incentives and landscape plant species.

The Deltona City Commission held a regular meeting on Monday, June 16, 2025, starting at 6:30 PM and adjourning at 11:20 PM. The meeting featured a quasi-judicial hearing on a major mixed-use development, public hearings on medical marijuana, noise, parks, and solicitation ordinances, and lengthy discussions on a proposed building moratorium. Several action items were added to the agenda at the start of the meeting, including a vote of no confidence for the city manager and a forensic audit request. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of May 19, 2025. - Approved Resolution 2025-62 for a vulnerability assessment (fully funded $265,000 grant), pulled from consent and voted separately (7-0). - Approved Resolution 2025-60 for legal representation in potential claim. - Approved in-kind donation of The Center at Deltona for Deltona Magazine gala. - Approved June recognitions: Chris Riha and Juneteenth proclamation. Public Comments & Testimony - Halifax Crossings MPUD: Multiple residents spoke. Emily Helmberger supported Option B, citing reduced residential units and increased commercial tax revenue. Kathy Bryan expressed concern about lack of age-restricted housing and potential for fast-food proliferation. Joseph Cerrato requested better buffering and emergency-only rear access. JodyLee and Albert Bryan criticized the shift away from senior housing, with Albert Bryan accusing the commission of prioritizing money over community. Courtney Cross-Burgos and Christian Waugh (attorney for Dutch Bros) urged approval, noting Dutch Bros would bring 45 jobs and tax revenue. Barry Walker, on behalf of the developer, agreed to several concessions (one-acre lots, 275 multifamily + 300 age-restricted, striking Option A). - Medical Marijuana Ban: Numerous speakers opposed the ban. Emily Helmberger, Dana McCool, Kathy Bryan, and table logic argued that the ban restricts access for patients, forces travel to neighboring cities, and disregards medical necessity. They noted the dispensaries are regulated and not accessible to children. Dana McCool shared personal experience with stage IV bone cancer, stating that delivery is not a reliable alternative. Some speakers acknowledged the state restrictions but urged the commission to consider compassion. - Building Moratorium: Speakers largely opposed a blanket moratorium. Emily Helmberger urged creativity and trust in staff. Alison and Dustin Robson expressed concern that it would affect individual homeowners trying to build. David Sosa supported a limited, six-month moratorium on large residential projects only, but opposed including infill or mixed-use. JodyLee supported the moratorium, citing flooding issues in her district. Albert Bryan criticized the commission's dysfunction, noting that previous moratoriums achieved nothing. Discussion Items - Halifax Crossings MPUD Amendment (Ordinance 14-2025): After extensive discussion and negotiation, the applicant agreed to modify Option B: strike Option A, minimum commercial lot size of one acre (not half-acre), unit mix of 275 multifamily and 300 age-restricted units. The commission discussed buffers, access, and building setbacks. A motion to approve these modifications passed 4-3 (Avila, Heriot, Avila-Vazquez, Santiago in favor; Colwell, Howington, Lulli against). - Medical Marijuana Dispensary Ban (Ordinance 21-2025): At first reading. Commissioner Avila-Vazquez shared a story about a patient benefiting from medical cannabis, urging compassion. Vice Mayor Heriot expressed concern about state-imposed distance restrictions, but noted that neighboring cities provide access. The motion to approve failed 1-6. - Lobbyist Registration Ordinance (28-2025): Commissioner Howington moved to table to a workshop, citing lack of preparation and need for discussion. Motion to table passed 5-2. - American Legion Post 255 Lease: Discussion item. The city attorney noted a 100-year lease is not possible; a 49-year lease with extensions was suggested. Commissioners expressed support but requested a full title search, deed restriction review, and a presentation on development plans. Former Commissioner King and Commander Pagan outlined their vision for a veteran and community center. The city attorney received direction to proceed with a 49-year lease term. - Temporary Building Moratorium: Staff presented legal considerations for drafting a moratorium ordinance. Commissioners Howington and Lulli supported including stormwater and public safety bases, and exempting projects with site plans. Commissioner Santiago strongly opposed, warning of legal costs ($200K-$600K to sue the state), damage to relationships with state officials, and loss of $2.5 million in state funding. Vice Mayor Heriot echoed concerns, noting staff is already working on impact fees and stormwater code updates. The discussion became contentious, with Commissioner Howington feeling that her concerns were being ignored. No final action was taken on the moratorium itself; instead, the four added agenda items (9G-J) were moved to the June 23 special meeting. Key Outcomes - Additions to Agenda: Item 9G (reduce spending to $25,000) passed 4-3; 9H (vote of no confidence) passed 4-3; 9I (forensic audit) passed 5-2; 9J (4th of July inclusion of political parties) passed 4-3. These items were later moved to June 23 special meeting. - Halifax Crossings MPUD: Ordinance 14-2025 approved at first reading with amendments (4-3). - Planning & Zoning Bylaws: Resolution 2025-55 approved (7-0). - Medical Marijuana Ban: Failed (1-6). - General Penalty/Noise Ordinance: Ordinance 25-2025 adopted at second reading (7-0). - Parks and Facilities Ordinance: Ordinance 26-2025 adopted at second reading (7-0). - Solicitation Ordinance: Ordinance 27-2025 approved at first reading (7-0). - Lobbyist Registration Ordinance: Tabled to next available workshop (5-2). - Stormwater Zoning Extension: Resolution 2025-63 approved for 120-day extension (7-0). - Blackburn Ave FEMA Grant: Resolution 2025-65 approved (6-1); Resolution 2025-64 for grant management services approved (6-1). - Rehearing for Normandy Blvd Rezoning: Motion for rehearing granted (5-2). - American Legion Lease: Direction given to staff for 49-year lease with extensions, pending title search and further negotiations. - Building Moratorium: No final action; direction given for scope including stormwater and public safety, but further discussion deferred. The four added items were moved to June 23 special meeting.

The Deltona City Commission held a workshop on June 9, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:44 p.m. in the Deltona Commission Chambers. Five members were present (Mayor Avila and Commissioners Avila-Vazquez, Colwell, Howington, and Lulli); Vice Mayor Heriot and Commissioner Santiago were absent. The Commission received a detailed Public Works/Utility project overview, added a temporary-development moratorium discussion to the agenda, and directed staff to prepare a moratorium ordinance. Agenda Amendment - Commissioner Howington raised a point of order and moved to add a discussion item on a temporary moratorium. The motion to amend the agenda carried 5-0. Discussion Items Public Works/Utility Projects - The Deputy Public Works Director reviewed citywide flooding projects, including Elkcam Boulevard/Lake Helen Osteen Road, Osteen Elementary School, Lake Sterling drawdown, Blue Heron Stormwater Park, and Drysdale Pond. She noted that 15 of the city’s 36 emergency pipe locations had been buried for storm preparedness. - The city has identified nearly $50 million in stormwater projects (about 45 projects), and the stormwater assessment fee is falling short of covering them. The stormwater crew has completed 51 projects in the last eight years. - No application was submitted for the Hurricane Loss Mitigation Program grant. Under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, the city received favorable FEMA review for a City Hall whole-building generator, assisted seven residents with applications, and submitted second-round requests totaling $4.8 million for bypass pumps and traffic-signal generators, with a 75/25 cost split. - Elevate Florida was described as a state residential program with no city advocate to help residents navigate applications. - In-house projects include Fay Court, Diamond Street, Tulsa Drive/Dorchester Drive, Haulover Boulevard, Menzi cleanup, 10,000 pre-filled sandbags ready for distribution, road milling and restriping under a $2 million budget, new sidewalk installations, and the Theresa Basin Flood Study, which remains on schedule. - The Deputy Utility Director reported on utility projects: Fisher WWTF MLE improvements (70% complete; about $1.3 million budget; finishing by Aug. 31), Fisher filter rehabilitation (about $388,000 budget; finishing by July 15), Courtland WTP Wells 41/42 outfitting (92% complete; about $2.7 million; finishing in late June), Lift Station 7 improvements (about $1.5 million; 6% complete; January 2026), water meter replacements (36,000 meters; 95% complete; July 30), AMI network (16 towers; 5% complete; Sept. 30), SCADA lift-station upgrades (55 stations; 3 remaining; June 30; about $822,000), and a system-wide SCADA upgrade for water/wastewater plants (about $3.3 million; June 2026). - The Public Works Director said a customer portal for real-time water usage should begin implementation around January, after the communication network is up. Temporary Moratorium Discussion - Commissioner Howington proposed a temporary moratorium on development orders and permits for townhomes, cluster homes, multifamily residential units, residential development on lots smaller than one acre, and residential development exceeding one dwelling unit per acre. The duration would be the shorter of nine months or the time needed to complete impact-fee and infrastructure-capacity studies. The proposal would not apply to commercial, industrial, or business development. - Commissioner Howington said 23–26 already-processing projects would be exempt, cited insufficient fire-service impact fees (about $123 per 1,000 square feet, with homes paying less than $200 for fire service), and said the pause would help planning staff and infrastructure catch up. - The City Attorney warned that Senate Bill 180, if enacted, could invalidate local land-development rules more restrictive than those in effect on Aug. 1, 2024, expose the city to civil actions with attorney-fee risk, and block pauses on hurricane-damaged properties. She noted a 14-day repeal/withdrawal provision that could avoid fees and costs, and outlined a tight timetable requiring advertised public hearings on June 23 and June 30, with a Planning & Zoning meeting on June 23. - Commissioners debated whether the moratorium should apply to infill lots. Commissioner Lulli argued infill should be included, citing out-of-town investors buying infill lots with low impact fees. The City Attorney recommended building a waiver process into the ordinance so individual applicants could request exceptions. Commissioner Avila-Vazquez suggested considering different treatment for owner-occupied family homes versus investor-built homes, and whether resale within five years should offset fees. - A resident named Tyra spoke in favor of the conversation, suggesting different impact-fee treatment for owner-occupied homes versus investor-built homes. City Manager Comments - The City Manager said the city is awaiting state decisions on three grants: one for sewer in the CRA area, one for an injection well (up to $2.5 million with a local match) to push water into the city’s Rapid Infiltration Basin site, and one for about $750,000 for mid-basin engineering and planning. He expected news in the coming weeks. Key Outcomes - The Commission voted 5-0 to add the moratorium discussion to the agenda. - The Commission voted 5-0 to direct the City Manager and City Attorney to draft a temporary moratorium ordinance, advertise it, and hold public hearings on June 23 and June 30, subject to quorum. - No formal votes were taken on the Public Works/Utility project overview. - The meeting adjourned at 7:44 p.m.

The City of Deltona convened a Special City Commission Meeting on June 2, 2025, at 5:00 PM. The scheduled executive session to discuss pending litigation (Case No. 6:23-CV-00766-JSS-LHP) was cancelled due to lack of a quorum. Following the cancellation, the city proceeded with its annual public Hurricane Awareness Town Hall beginning at approximately 6:30 PM. Presentations & Speakers - Brian Carrick (Chief Meteorologist, Spectrum News 13): Carrick presented the 2025 season outlook, citing the Colorado State University forecast of 17 named storms (average 14), 9 hurricanes (average 7), and 4 major hurricanes (average 3). He strongly advocated the mantra "Don't be scared, be prepared" and warned against sensationalized media coverage. Following his address, the City presented him with a proclamation recognizing seven years of partnership on the event. - Clint Meekham (Volusia County Emergency Management Director): Meekham reviewed the 2024 season (18 named storms, 11 hurricanes, 5 majors) and highlighted that Deltona experienced a 500-year rainfall event with up to 18.5 inches of rain from Hurricane Milton. He stressed planning for 96 hours of self-sufficiency, the need for flood insurance (subject to a 30-day waiting period), and urged residents to register for the Special Needs Registry. He also noted that tornadoes in the region tend to follow the I-4 corridor. - Carissa (Florida Department of Health): Carissa detailed the special needs sheltering process, explaining that provided shelters are "shelters of last resort" and are pet-friendly. She advised registering well in advance of a storm. - Stephen Cousins (Assistant Fire Chief, Deltona): Cousins outlined the city's Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and confirmed that the Fire Chief assumes command of the city during a declared state of emergency. He advised residents to contact the fire department directly with any preparedness questions. - Mike Commander & Jen Canada (Insurance Representatives): Commander and Canada advised residents to review homeowner's policies for exclusions and to differentiate between standard deductibles and hurricane deductibles (often 3% of a home's value). Jen Canada confirmed that the National Flood Insurance Program is fully funded for the coming year. Key Outcomes & Next Steps - No Commission Business: The scheduled Executive Session was cancelled, and no formal city commission action was taken. - Proclamation: Brian Carrick was officially honored by the city for his public service. - Upcoming Events: The Volusia County Hurricane Preparedness Expo will take place on June 1st (10 AM – 2 PM) at the Volusia County Fairgrounds. Additional town halls were announced, including one at the Deltona Regional Library on May 22nd (5:30 PM – 6:45 PM). - Public Guidance: Residents were strongly urged to immediately check their insurance policies, prepare a 96-hour disaster kit (including cash, original documents, and medications), and register for the county's special needs registry and emergency alert systems. A NOAA weather radio was raffled to an attendee.

The City of Deltona special magistrate convened a code enforcement hearing on May 28, 2025, to hear cases involving alleged violations of the Deltona City Code. The magistrate stated the city had the burden of proof, respondents could testify and present evidence under oath, and no general public comment would be accepted. One case was withdrawn and three cases were continued before the hearing; the magistrate also granted one continuance during the hearing. Procedural Announcements - Withdrawn: DEL 25-052, 507 Oslo Drive. - Continued before the hearing: DEL 25-011 (Massey case, 1384 Rockhill Street), DEL 25-024 (Massey case, 1264 South Seagate Drive), and FIR17-2025 (1381 Howland Boulevard). - The magistrate reported no ex parte communications and stated that case files and PowerPoint presentations would be admitted into evidence unless objected to. Discussion Items FIR-054-2024 - Mobility chair and electrical work without permit (lien reduction) - The property was ruled in violation on September 25, 2024, and again on January 29, 2025, under the Florida Fire Prevention Code. The owner was given until December 27, 2024, to correct the violation, and the city reported 38 days of noncompliance, accruing a fine of $1,900. Staff costs totaled $1,179.42, and the city recommended no reduction. - The respondent cited confusion about the need for an elevator company license and an electrical permit, said the mobility chair had been installed for about four years, and stated the property provides HUD-subsidized low-income housing. - The magistrate recommended reducing the lien to the city's costs, $1,179.42, citing the respondent's confusion, the affordable housing use, and no other violations presented. DEL 25-054A/B/C - No permits for shed, pergola, and concrete flat work, 916 Shorecrest Avenue (respondent Shamar R. Taylor) - The city alleged three unpermitted structures and asked for 60 days or $50 per day per violation. The respondent said the contractor had taken $200 and stopped responding, and another company had agreed to come out. - The magistrate found the respondent in violation, ordered compliance by August 26, 2025 (90 days), and set a fine of $50 per day per violation, totaling $150 per day, if not corrected. FIR-023-2023 - Fire alarm cellular communicator permit/final inspection, 55 Courtland Boulevard (Dollar Tree Stores Inc.; lien reduction) - This case involved a Dollar Tree Stores property. The property did not come into compliance until 472 days after the initial ruling, accruing a fine of $11,800. Staff costs totaled $1,155.04, and the city agreed to a reduction to $1,180. - A Dollar Tree representative requested the reduction, noting a permit had been obtained but the contractor never called for the final inspection; once identified, city staff reactivated the permit and the inspection passed. - The magistrate noted a discrepancy between the agenda's lien amount ($11,150) and the officer's reported fine ($11,800). He recommended reducing the fine to $1,180. DEL 25-053 - Improperly parked vehicles, 2230 Howland Boulevard (respondent Lindsay Tripp) - The city presented a case of vehicles parked in the front yard. The officer said the property had come into compliance at least a week before the hearing and requested a finding for the earlier violation period, which would make future violations repeat violations. - The respondent said the truck had been parked in the driveway for about two and a half weeks and described a difficult driveway layout and family logistics. - The magistrate found the violation occurred but was now corrected, imposed no fine, and warned that a similar violation within five years could be treated as a repeat violation with fines up to $500 per day. DEL 25-051 - 1901 East Chapel Drive - The city requested a continuance to the August 27, 2025, special magistrate hearing because the case involved roof work and permits. The magistrate granted the continuance. DEL 25-048 - Outdoor washing machine, 668 Pepperwood Avenue (respondent Emily Chestnut) - The city alleged a furniture/storage violation because a washing machine was connected and used outside, with hoses and pooling water observed. The respondent did not appear. - The magistrate dismissed the case, reasoning that the washing machine was hooked up and being used rather than stored, similar to an outdoor air-conditioning unit, and noted there may be other violations not cited. DEL 25-049A/B/C/D/E - Property maintenance, debris, and weeds, 1197 Acorn Court Drive (respondent Brian King Rumgen) - The city alleged disrepair to a screen enclosure, shed, and fence, a repeat debris violation, and weeds exceeding 12 inches. The resident had said he would clean up but had not. - The magistrate found violations A, B, C, and E, ordered correction by July 28, 2025 (61 days), and imposed $100 per day total if not corrected. - For violation D, the magistrate found a repeat violation and imposed $50 per day from March 12, 2025, until compliance. DEL 25-050 - Trailer parked in front yard, 1740 Fort Smith Boulevard - The city presented a trailer parked in the front yard, with multiple notices and no contact with the owners. The property's zoning was confirmed as R1, where this parking is prohibited. - The magistrate found the violation, ordered compliance by June 11, 2025 (14 days), and imposed $25 per day if the trailer remained. DEL 25-055 - Fence without permit, 1697 Sumatra Avenue (respondents Carmen D. and Carlos A. Torellas) - The city alleged a newly installed fence without a permit; no permit application had been submitted as of the hearing. - The magistrate found the violation, ordered compliance by June 27, 2025 (30 days), and imposed $50 per day if not corrected. Key Outcomes - Dismissed: DEL 25-048 (668 Pepperwood Avenue). - Continued to August 27, 2025: DEL 25-051 (1901 East Chapel Drive). - Violation findings with compliance deadlines: DEL 25-054 (by August 26, 2025), DEL 25-049 A/B/C/E (by July 28, 2025), DEL 25-050 (by June 11, 2025), and DEL 25-055 (by June 27, 2025). - DEL 25-053 was found in violation but corrected, with no fine imposed. - Lien reduction recommendations to the city commission: FIR-054-2024 reduced to $1,179.42 and FIR-023-2023 reduced to $1,180. The city commission makes the final decisions on lien reductions.

The Deltona Planning and Zoning Board convened on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Deltona Commission Chambers. The meeting addressed three primary agenda items: a proposed citywide ban on medical marijuana dispensaries, an ordinance to ease development restrictions on nonconforming residential lots, and a resolution to update the Board's bylaws. All items resulted in recommendations to the City Commission, with votes and detailed discussions recorded. Consent Calendar - None. The approval of the April 16, 2025, minutes was handled as a separate motion, with an added clarification regarding public school capacity concerns raised by Member Stewart. The motion carried unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - The public forum was opened and closed for each agenda item; no members of the public spoke. Discussion Items A. Ordinance No. 21-2025 – Medical Marijuana Dispensary Ban - Planner I Jonathan Knight presented the ordinance, which would repeal Article XIV of Chapter 110 and remove dispensaries from the zoning land use table, effectively banning new dispensaries citywide. Two existing dispensaries (one active, one preparing to open) would be allowed to continue as legal non-conforming uses, but would lose that status if inactive for more than six consecutive months. - Secretary Amoroso questioned whether a limit (e.g., three dispensaries) could be adopted instead of a total ban. City Attorney Good clarified that under Florida Statutes, municipalities must treat dispensaries the same as pharmacies or ban them entirely; no middle ground is permitted. - Discussion centered on distance restrictions from schools and places of worship. Member Stewart noted the current 500-foot buffer required by state law versus a desired 1,500-foot buffer, and expressed concern that the state's "all or nothing" stance forced the city's hand. He also noted that 26 dispensaries operate elsewhere in Volusia County, including nine in Daytona Beach and six in Port Orange. - Secretary Amoroso cited data that fewer than 4% of Florida residents (and less than 4,000 Deltona residents) hold medical marijuana cards, and contrasted this with the availability of unregulated THC products (Delta 8) sold locally. She argued the ban would not harm a large population. - Member Northey opposed the ban, stating that medical marijuana dispensaries are clean businesses selling a legal product and that the issue was driven primarily by the school buffer rule. - Vote: The motion to recommend approval passed 6-1, with Member Northey dissenting. B. Ordinance No. 19-2025 – Nonconforming Lots - Planning Manager Matthew West presented the ordinance, which updates regulations for legally recorded residential lots platted before the city's 1998 Land Development Code that do not meet current lot width or area requirements. The ordinance introduces a formal definition of a "lot of record" and would reduce the need for variances, lowering development costs and encouraging infill. - West noted that approximately 1,584 vacant residential lots exist citywide, but the number of nonconforming lots is likely much smaller (he pledged to clarify). In the past year, four variance requests were submitted: two approved, two denied. - Members discussed minimum house size requirements (1,200 square feet in R-1 zoning). West confirmed that tiny homes, modular homes, and mobile homes are not permitted under this ordinance; a variance would still be required for size or type. - Vice Chair D'Errico clarified that the ordinance does not allow lot combination or subdivision; it applies only to single, individually owned lots. - Vote: The motion to recommend approval passed unanimously (7-0). C. Resolution No. 2025-55 – Bylaws Update - Assistant Director Jessica Entwistle presented the resolution to modernize the Board's bylaws, originally adopted in 2011. Key updates include allowing up to five alternate members, moving officer elections to March to align with appointment cycles, and updating the agenda format. - A major point of debate was whether to allow business owners who reside outside the city to serve as board members. Secretary Amoroso, Member Stewart, Alternate Warnicke, and Vice Chair D'Errico opposed the inclusion, arguing it could dilute resident input and introduce external interests. Alternate Neher and Member Gonzalez supported allowing business owners, citing their vested interest in the city. Member Gonzalez suggested limiting such appointments to a maximum of one or two. - Vice Chair D'Errico proposed two amendments: (1) changing the attendance rule from automatic termination for absences to giving the board discretion ("may" instead of "shall"); (2) clarifying that conduct discrediting the city should be determined by the City Commission or relevant ethics codes, not left undefined. - Member Northey noted the attendance policy mirrors Volusia County's policy and did not support changing it, but the motion as seconded included both amendments. - Vote: The motion to recommend approval, with the amendments and the requirement that all members reside within the city, passed 6-1, with Alternate Neher dissenting. Key Outcomes - Ordinance No. 21-2025 (Medical Marijuana Ban): Recommended approval to the City Commission (6-1). Existing dispensaries will become non-conforming uses; new ones are prohibited. - Ordinance No. 19-2025 (Nonconforming Lots): Recommended approval unanimously (7-0). Allows development on pre-1998 substandard residential lots without lot-width/area variances. - Resolution No. 2025-55 (Bylaws): Recommended approval with amendments (6-1). Changes include: board discretion on attendance termination, clarified ethics standard, and removal of non-resident business owner eligibility. - All recommendations will be forwarded to the City Commission for final action.