Volusia Matters Podcast

Jayson Meyer’s Fountainhead Innovation Center, located at the I-95 and U.S. 1 interchange in Ormond Beach, is an exciting new destination for creativity, collaboration, and community growth. Designed to bring people and ideas together, the center offers entrepreneurs and business leaders space to connect, explore opportunities, and turn plans into progress. Its vision reflects the belief that innovation flourishes when people can learn and build together. Fountainhead has the potential to strengthen the region’s business community and inspire future leaders. Discover the possibilities and experience the center for yourself. To arrange a tour, call 386-566-2140.
Repairs Coming to Daytona Beach Pier…..City project managers recently met with Volusia County Beach Patrol, the County Environmental Management Division and Saboungi Construction Inc to coordinate upcoming repairs to the Daytona Beach Pier.
 
City of Daytona Beach has a federal lawsuit challenging its 2025 district map, so City Commission is moving to redraw its 6 Commission zones.
 
Nov 5 - the City hosted residents to meet 3 finalists for the city’s next fire chief. Finalists include....
Michael DeStefano
Chris Hughes
Dennis Rubin
 
Nov 10 - DB Shores City Commission
swore in Mayor Stephen Dembinsky…. new commissioner Vince Don Vito as well as re-elected Commissioner Chris Conomos
certified that the name change referendum to "The Shores" was rejected, 54%–46%
 
Nov 10 - Holly Hill City Commission
swore in Carmen Ruiz and Damon Samson as new commissioners and elected Debra Kay Snow as Vice Mayor.
Commission also agreed to hold a workshop on Nov 17 to discuss possibility of hiring Interim City Manager Bryan Walker as permanent City Manager…the result of that workshop will come back to the Commission for a vote at their Dec 8 meeting.
 
Nov 10 - S Daytona City Council
took up a resolution to create a South Daytona CRA;
took up a Resolution applying to the county's CDBG-DR program for the Lift Station No. 1 relocation and flood-resilience project.
 
Nov 10 - Orange City Council
took up a measure curtailing data centers.
addressed a stormwater plan that outlines two phases: 21 localized drainage projects, followed by major improvements in East Graves Ave, Mill Lake, and Industrial Park basins.
 
Nov 10 - NSB City Commission
swore in Fred Cleveland who was reelected Mayor and Jennifer DeVine and Curtis Hodges as new Commissioners.
took up an ordinance to address safety concerns about e-bikes and other motorized devices on sidewalks. It clarifies where they may be used and gives police rules for education/enforcement.
 
Nov 10 - School Bd
heard an internal audit report, budget update and safety/security report.
New School Bd members…… Brenda Beery (District 1) and Grace Kellermeier (District 3) will be sworn into office on Tue Nov 17 at a reorganization/swearing-in meeting.
County Council will hold a special meeting Nov 12 to take up FY 2025-26 year-end fund reconciliation/appropriations.
 
Congress returned this week faces a Dec 11 funding deadline as Republicans will push Trump’s agenda before Democrats take control of both chambers in January. Major budget, economic and business issues to watch…..
Priority ONE…..Congress must fund the government through FY 2027. Temporary funding expires Dec 11. House passed three of twelve bills; Senate passed none. Lawmakers may approve packages or extend funding or risk a partial government shutdown.
New US House and Senate will continue with several caucuses that help organize members around shared political viewpoints.
See my VM newsletter for more detailed breakdown……
 
Count……..November 11 :
US House (with 435 representatives……218 is majority point)
Democrats: 254
Republicans: 162
19 races not yet called.
US Senate (51 seats needed for majority)
Democrats 54
Republicans 44
2 races remain unresolved.
 
 
Senate Democrats have NOT officially elected their majority leader for the 120th Congress…
Chuck Schumer (New York and current Democratic leader and 3 other Senators are looking to run
Senate Democratic leadership elections are expected in December. It’ll be secret ballot vote among Democratic senators and incoming senators-elect.
 
House Democrats are scheduled to hold their internal leadership elections for House Speaker nominee Nov 18–19.
Current House Minority Leaders Hakeem Jeffries (D-New York) is seeking support for his candidacy.
January 2027: full House of Representatives will elect the Speaker when the 120th Congress convenes.
 
Current Senate Majority Leader John Thune will become Minority Leader on Jan 3.
Rep Jim Jordan was selected to be Minority Leader.
 
 
Nov 9 - Volusia Elected Officials Roundtable…..
heard presentation on data centers by County Growth/Resource Management Director Ray Tyner
Holly Hill Mayor John Penny was elected next Chair and Deland Mayor Chris Cloudman will be Vice Chair.
 
Legislature returns to Tallahassee on November 17 for its Organization Session. 2027 Session opening date March 2. Look a Special Session per call by Gov DeSantis to how to implement constitution Const Adm 3 and how to fund local governments….sometime in December?
 
Team Volusia Board meets Friday, Nov 13, 8:30 AM at ERAU (Henderson Admin Ctr)
Volusia Economic Q Breakfast… Friday, November 20, 7:30 AM Daytona Intl Airport  click here to RSVP
Interview……Lauren Zelt, Exec Director of Protecting American Consumers Together, discusses how lawsuit abuse is a consumer affordability issue. PACT advocates for maintaining these reforms and expanding them to include restrictions on third-party litigation funding and increased financial transparency.

Fountainhead Innovation Center: A New Opportunity for Volusia……Jayson Meyer is transforming the former WyoTech property, just north of Destination Daytona at the I-95/US 1 interchange, into the new Fountainhead Innovation Center.
What makes this project exciting is the opportunity it creates for our local business community. Smaller office suites will give entrepreneurs, start-up companies and growing businesses professional space without the expense of a large corporate facility. Plans also include an event venue for meetings, leadership retreats and business gatherings.
 
Election Results…..Congress…Legislature…. State Adms…..County Council…..Charter Adms…..
Out of 120 Florida House members’ elections….
70 Republicans        50 Democrats
Out of 40 Florida Senate seat elections…..
25  Republicans   15 Democrats
Democrats gained 15 seats in House, ending the Republicans' two-thirds supermajority.
Florida Senate: Democrats picked up 1 seat in Senate
6 House races and 4 Senate races are still being counted.
 
Democrats’ takeover of the US House and Senate will reshape Washington’s business and economic agenda when the new Congress convenes in January. Expect greater scrutiny of spending, tax policy, tariffs, health-care costs and the administration’s economic decisions. House Democrats will control committee leadership and the flow of legislation, while Senate Democrats will gain influence over bills and presidential appointments. Business groups will watch proposals affecting corporate taxes, regulation, energy, infrastructure and workforce programs.
Congress returns Nov 9 for the lame-duck session, with 20 House and 22 Senate legislative days scheduled. The Federal Budget deadline is Dec 11.
A lapse starts Dec 12 if nothing passes i.e. partial shutdown if spending levels, policy riders, defense, and health care fights aren't settled.
Nov 9 will show whether leadership moves a minibus package first, or just tees up another short Continuing BandAid Resolution.
 
Amendment 3 with approximately 62% approval, giving homeowners a significant property tax break beginning in 2027. SO Gov DeSantis plans to call a special legislative session before he leaves office within the next two months to work out the details.
 
Nov 4 - DB City Commission
adopted an ordinance to restrict sleeping near homes and loitering on sidewalks in busy areas of the City. This comes after complaints about blocked sidewalks, camping, theft, vandalism, and drug activity.
agreed to join the County to combine Harvey Ave beach ramp improvements with a nearby boardwalk and seawall extension.
named a 37-acre park on LPGA Blvd to Raynor Park in Honor of DB Officer Jason Raynor
agreed to a $9.3 million upgrade of Lift Station 62 in order to raise equipment above flood levels and provide for emergency storage. This station carries wastewater to a treatment plant but has aging equipment which caused sewer overflows during Hurricanes Ian and Milton.
 
Nov 4 - Port Orange City Council
renewed its annual membership with Team Volusia for $40 K….whereby TV will continue to market vacant properties/buildings in the Eastport CRA to prospective companies…the City also maintains a seat on their Board of Directors.
heard a presentation on establishing a fire special assessment to fund Fire Department operations….
made an appointment to their Environmental Advisory Bd
 
Nov 4 - Ormond Beach City Commission adopted a measure to separate Land Development Code permits from building permits such as clearing land, grading, fences, garage sales to reflect existing county practices and update rules to match recent Florida laws.
 
Nov 2 - Deland City Commission
updated their fire prevention fees to cover inspection and prevention services after they were compared with nearby fire department fees and aligned inspection charges with the City’s building fees.
Inducted 3 new firefighters and 1 new police officer
 
Last week, Federal Reserve Bd decided by a 10 - 2 vote to hold interest rates steady at 3.75% to 4% as a means to balance persistent inflation against continued economic growth. For consumers, holding rates steady means borrowing costs are unlikely to receive immediate relief. Credit card interest, auto loans and business loans will remain relatively expensive. Mortgage rates may fluctuate based on bond markets and inflation expectations.
For businesses, higher borrowing costs can discourage expansion, equipment purchases and hiring. That could slow job creation and economic development.
Bottom line: US economy continues to grow, but inflation remains a concern. The Fed is signaling that interest rates may stay higher for longer, and another increase could when they meet on December 8-9.
November Events…
Volusia Elected Officials Roundtable ….Monday, Nov 9, 9 AM Daytona Intl Airport
Team Volusia Board meets Friday, Nov 13, 8:30 AM at ERAU (Henderson Admin Ctr)
Q Breakfast will be Friday, November 20, 7:30 AM Daytona Intl Airport  see VM newsletter for RSVP link
Legislature returns to Tallahassee on Tuesday, November 17 for its Organization Session, an important first step in preparing for the 2027 legislative year. House is set to name Sam Garrison from Fleming Island as their House Speaker and Senate will Jim Boyd from Bradenton as their Senate President.

Jayson Meyer’s new Fountainhead Innovation Center at the I-95/ US 1 interchange in Ormond Beach is about to deliver some real benefits for Volusia County.
The center is making small office suites available for entrepreneurs and growing businesses that need professional space without taking on a big facility of their own.
Office suites and event space are described in recent Volusia Matters updates. But if you want a tour, call me at 566-2140 and I'll make it happen.
 There was a lot of focus on data-centers the last few weeks.
Oct 20 - County Council voted 6-0 to ban large-scale data centers requiring at least 50 megawatts of power in unincorporated areas.
Oct 20 - Ormond Beach City Commission addressed data-centers and seeking clearer environmental definitions and broader protections.
Port Orange City Council is discussing a proposed 12-month freeze on data centers of any size.
Oct 26 - Deltona…. City Commission
Approved data-center moratorium language (further details to follow)
welcomed 7 new fire fighters and promoted 4 existing personnel
Approved a Collective Bargaining Agreement with their Fire Fighters Local 2913 to be valid September 2029.
Approved their Team Volusia Economic Development Corporation Cooperative Agreement for 2026-2027.
 
Holly Hill City Commission approved 2 no-repayment state hurricane-resilience $2.8 M and $19 M grants for State Ave water/wastewater mains — Milton damage.
Orange City approved an $18.3 million project which aims to reduce flooding around Mill Lake and Industrial Dr….another example of local efforts to help reduce effects of stormwater.
On the Jobs front……Daytona Beach drone company, Censys Technology received ~$460,000 in FAA funding to test satellite communications for long-range drones
Senator Rick Scott has asked the FCC to keep Chinese drone makers on its security-restriction list. He argues their drones could pose national security risks and that Chinese government subsidies gives them an unfair advantage.
Daytona Regional Chamber issued a statement opposing Florida’s 2026 Amendment 3, which concerns increasing the annual homestead exemption……”reduced property-tax revenue could hurt local services, including public safety, roads, beaches, parks, and human services, or lead to higher fees and taxes. It said it supports property-tax reform but favors a more carefully studied approach”.
 Gov DeSantis hosted a roundtable in Miami to reaffirm his commitment to providing meaningful property tax relief to Floridians and build support for Amendment 3.
 
IRS says that, starting with 2026 taxes, people who received too much advance help paying for Affordable Care Act insurance may have to repay the full excess.
Florida’s 2027 ACA premiums are expected to rise ~10.4%. Four insurers are reportedly leaving the state’s marketplace, which may reduce choices in some areas.
 
Economic development, govt, tourism and community events for your calendar:
 
Social Security: Higher Benefits, Long-Term Challenges
With Election Day set for November 3, control of Congress remains unsettled. Republicans currently hold the Senate, 53–47, and with about 33 or 34 seats up for election, Democrats need a net gain of four seats to take control. MW… All 435 House seats are up; Republicans hold a narrow 219–214 edge, with vacancies, and Democrats need three net gains for a majority.
 
As for early voting….. out of Volusia 399,601 Eligible Voters…..Unofficial Voter Turnout to date is……….
ANOTHER REMINDER that early voting continues thru Oct 31 (8 AM - 6 PM) at 9 sites throughout the County (mainly community centers and libraries). You can vote anywhere in the county and your vote counts in your home prescient.
 
Interview State Attorney RJ Larizza and Chief Assistant John Reid discuss…….current legal issues facing prosecutors in Fla’s 7th Judicial Circuit.
As for early voting…..out of Volusia 401,708 Eligible Voters
Unofficial Voter Turnout Oct 27, 6 PM is 105,209 26.19%
About ~ mail-in ballots have been received so far…..and have early voted around the county….
Of these…..
Democratic  <37,000 35%
Republican   <46,000 43%
NPA’s   >19,000 18%
Other parties….Green, Libertarians   >3,100 3%
NOTE..these numbers will increase daily until Sat evening

Jayson Meyer’s new Fountainhead Innovation Center’s new business model is introducing LaunchPad Volusia, a free, nine-week business accelerator offered through the Volusia Innovation Hub. The program helps entrepreneurs turn business ideas into workable business models. Participants learn to test their concepts with potential customers and determine whether their ideas have real market potential.
 
Oct 19 - DeLand City Commission repealed their Downtown Fair Share Agreement..
 
Oct 19 – Deltona City Commission allocated $1M fed ARPA money for Lake Windsor stormwater management project. 
The Commission and Planning & Zoning Board had a workshop to update their comprehensive-plan.
 
Oct 20 - Port Orange City Council
entered Phase 1 of Cambridge Canal and Pump Station Improvements project….an estimated cost of $14 million…. another example of local entities’ efforts to control flooding.
addressed several amendments to their Pension Plan with the Police Officers Union.
 
Oct 20 - Ormond Beach City Commission addressed ordinance regarding the city's data-center comprehensive plan……defines data centers, reaffirms they're not permitted uses, adds policies barring excessive electricity demand.
City Manager Joyce Shanahan reported Ormond has 18,683 employed residents…up 63 over last month….however, unemployment increased from 4.8% from 4.9%......for 2026 to date, permits totaled about $31.5 million.
 
Oct 20 – County Council
updated their inventory of properties available for affordable-housing thus bringing them into compliance with Florida Statutes.
confirmed Jason Watkins as Dept Director of Aviation and Economic Resources. He replace Cyrus Callem.
 
Oct 21 - Daytona Beach City Commission
approved their FY 2026–27 contract with Team Volusia Economic Development Corporation
approved a $50 K grant to improve the building on S Ridgewood Ave.
addressed a 6-month moratorium on permits for new data centers….2nd reading is Nov 18
 
Volusia Forever Advisory Committee meets Oct 23 to determine if 5 proposed projects meet Volusia Forever criteria to be eligible for their 2026 Cycle 3….
 
Volusia County Schools has just been recognized for earning Fla’s Academically High-Performing School District designation for 2025–26. Only 18 of Fla’s 67 districts received this honor..
Sept 30 - Fla Sen Kathleen Passidomo stated she plans to vote NO on Adm 3 due to her concerns that communities/special districts would be hurt. “Local voters should hold their own city/county officials accountable for their budgets”.
Oct 20 - Fla Senate President Ben Albritton said he’s voting NO on Adm 3…..”its impact Fla rural counties…..Fla’s Taxation and Budget Reform Commission should address it next year”.
 
Fla’s Taxation/Budget Revision Commission, which meets every 20 years, is set to meet next year. It'll include 25 voting members: 11 picked by governor, 7 by House Speaker, 7 by Senate President — none may be sitting legislators —  plus 4 nonvoting ex officio legislators.
As for early voting…..out of Volusia 399,601 Eligible Voters
Unofficial Voter Turnout TO DATE is ~46 K….~12 %
About ~33 K mail-in ballots have been received so far…..and ~13 K have early voted around the county….
Of these…..
Democratic  <17 K    ~37%
Republican   >18 K    ~40%
NPA’s   >8 K   ~18%
Other parties….Green, Libertarians   >1,3  ~3%
NOTE..these numbers will increase daily until Sat evening
 
ANOTHER REMINDER that early voting continues thru Oct 31 (8 AM - 6 PM) at 9 sites throughout the County (mainly community centers and libraries). You can vote anywhere in the county and your vote counts in your home district.
ALSO…..TODAY Oct 22, 5 PM is deadline to get a mail-ballot.
 
Federal Reserve Board Chair Kevin Warsh spoke at an IMF event…..
gave no signal on the Oct 28 rate decision….traders see that as a hold in October, pushing possible hike to December.
noted September’s 3.7% inflation rate was well above their 2% target.
AI investment boosts the economy, raising demand.
the Fed’s Sept quarter percent hike defied Trump's calls for cuts, and now markets expect them to hold the line at Oct 28 meeting — a small win for anyone borrowing.
the Fed Bd meets Oct 27–28.
 
Fla rail projects are to receive ~$416 million in federal funding with an additional $100 million State funding. ~$57 million will go for Brightline’s Cocoa station project… Possible opening date would be 2030. I still foresee Brightline (despite its financial dilemma) one day extending north to Jacksonville…..and there needs to be a stop in DB.
 
Moving on to Congress…….Ratepayer Protection Act which would shield households, farms, small businesses from higher electricity bills tied to data-center growth fell short in the US Senate leaving decisions largely to states and regulators.
 
Both US House and Senate members are in their home districts until after the election so major business and economic debates are on hold. SO look for votes regarding permit reform, data-center electricity costs, and other energy policy should resume on Nov 9…... when lawmakers return
 
Down at the Cape…..
Blue Origin announced a $330M expansion for a new manufacturing project to produce some 150 rocket stages annually beginning in 2027. This should add to their current 5,000+ employees in Florida including Volusia.
Space Florida and the UK’s Space Agency launched a new joint aerospace innovation fund whereby any for-profit Florida aerospace company can apply before a Jan 11 deadline.
Space Florida will receive $1.5 M in NASA funding for Project ORBIT — a statewide aerospace workforce program targeting middle/high school CTE, internships, and a talent portal
 
Oct 8 - Seminole Tribe says DraftKings is offering unlicensed sports betting through its prediction-market (KALSHI) and Pick6 products. They’re arguing this allows wagers on game outcomes and point spreads and that it violates the 2021 state gaming compact
 
Interview - Volusia Economic Development Director Lou Paris
Volusia’s biggest opportunities for economic growth in 3-5 years?
how Volusia compares to other counties in attracting new businesses?
does Volusia have enough skilled workers to meet our businesses need?
how do we keep growing our economy without losing the quality of life that makes Volusia such a special place to live i.e. how do we balance new development with our roads, water supply, infrastructure, and environment?
three priorities to strengthen our local economy?

Jayson Meyer’s plans for the new Fountainhead Innovation Center……just north of Destination Daytona….I-95 / US 1 interchange in Ormond…. building is coming together….. If your business is looking to relate or expand OR if you know of another business looking to open….. I wanted to remind you that Jayson has different types of office space available… Details regarding square footage and type a business can be discussed. Call me at 566-2140 and I'd be glad to arrange a tour.
 
Amendment 3 offers Fla homeowners a larger exemption from non-school property taxes: it goes from the current $50 K to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028. It needs 60% voter approval….2 separate Sept polls show support ranging from 45 to 55%, AND a recent Stetson University poll at 56% AND an Edge/MDW poll at 50% support…. The debate is therefore about both potential household savings and the effect on local services.
Amendment 1 to expand the state's budget stabilization fund…… 46% support.
Amendment 2 to provide agricultural property-tax exemptions….56% support.
With 23% undecided on each State amendment.
 
DB City Commission approved adding manufactured housing to the City’s 2026–2029 Local Housing Assistance Plan….it would help mobile-home owners and renters and support housing stability.
 
Biketoberfest 2026 runs TODAY, October 15 to Sunday, October 18. Traffic is expected to increase during the rally. Friday and Saturday may be the busiest days, especially around Main St and Destination Daytona.
 
53rd ANNUAL DAYTONA TURKEY RUN is Nov 25 - 29…Wednesday – Saturday 8am. – 4pm and Sunday 8 am – 2 pm.
 
South Daytona approved a $45,000 contract amendment to add a berm at Reed Canal Park… part of a renovation funded partly by a County ECHO grant.
 
First Step Shelter Board……
discussed the idea of how to weatherize the Roseanne Tornatore safe zone No real consensus on that topic….
discussed plans to acquire “next step housing” for individuals who have completed their stay at the shelter.
looking to put in a walking trail within the grounds as well.
 
Oct 13 — School Board meeting:
Student Progression Plan 2026–2028— grade advancement, grading, graduation requirements; Safety & Security policy overhaul (Policy 510)
And approved 2027–28 school calendar.
Dr John Castelli was approved to become the District’s Director of Operations.
 
Oct 15 — County’s Planning Land Development Regulation Commission (PLDRC) reviews the data-center ban (Council’s first reading passed 7-0 on Oct 6). Factors to be considered include power water business estimate
Oct 20 — County council final vote on the data-center ban.
 
Oct 22 — Deltona State of the City (chamber event) with Mayor Santiago Avila, Jr.
 
US Sept inflation increased 0.6% from August.....annual inflation rate jumped from 3.4% to 3.7%
Gas prices jumped 9.1%.....a big impact on this monthly increase along with rising housing costs and other expenses…..
Core inflation, which excludes food and energy, increased 0.3% monthly and 2.6% annually.
Inflation outpaced wage growth for 6 consecutive months, adding to consumer affordability concerns.
The latest report complicates the Federal Reserve’s efforts to reach its 2% inflation target. Stocks fell, Treasury yields climbed, and the dollar strengthened following this report.
 
REMINDER…early voting is Oct 19 - 31…8 AM to 6 PM including weekends. See the county election website OR Volusia Matters newsletter for poll locations. All voters can vote anywhere in the county during this time……and your vote counts back in your homes’ district.
Kristin Weiss just celebrated her one year anniversary as President/CEO of Daytona Regional Chamber
Nation’s $40 trillion national debt….. is a warning that persistent borrowing is adding to the nation’s obligations and deserves a bipartisan plan to put the budget on a sustainable path. FY 2026 federal deficit was about $1.85 trillion (Congressional Budget Office’s estimate) ~$218 billion more than in FY 2025
 
Community Commentator John Nicholson spoke of….. 
DB’s plans to redo the boardwalk
Charter Adm 1…selection of county chair
Charter Adm 5…Conservation Lands Registry
State Constitution Adm 3
How we’re addressing homeless issue
City Commission zones’ count

Podcast News Topics
The new Fountainhead Innovation Center located just north of destination Daytona….at the I95 / US 1 interchange in Ormond…. The building is coming together….. Jayson Meyer has different types of office space available… Details regarding square footage and type a business can be discussed. If your business is looking to relocate or expand, call me at 566-2140 and I'd be glad to arrange a tour.
Oct 1 local budgets…….see all tax rates and new year budgets in Volusia Matters newsletter……
Oct 6 - County Council……
addressed the Army Corp of Engineers to complete a $3 million coastal-risk study at no cost to the County.
voted 7–0 to advance an ordinance banning large-scale data centers in unincorporated areas. This comes after new legislation took effect, preserving local authority to regulate large data centers through land-use rules.  
voted 6-0 to implement a 12-month moratorium on license-plate readers on county rights-of-way….as opposed to an outright ban. Sheriff Mike Chitwood told council members all cameras have been turned off and will be removed within 30 days.
voted to support the ECHO Advisory Committee recommendations to fund10 projects totaling $12.7 million.
approved new technology to support Sheriff’s Office 911 dispatchers handling medical, fire, and law enforcement calls.
 
Port Orange City Council approved a Memorandum of Understanding negotiated with their Firefighters Union
 
Ormond City Commission addressed several resolutions pertaining to city employee healthcare.
 
Deltona City Commission addressed an ordinance to update their Land Development Code to match changes to Florida’s Live Local Act.
 
Deland City Commission
renewed their membership with Team Volusia and Deland Chamber of Commerce.
Made appointments to their Airport Advisory Bd and Volusia Growth Management Commission.
Approved a REVISED resolution to update their building permit and inspection fees to make them compliant with state law.
 
I’d like to thank WSBB GM/Announcer Ammie Ryan for hosting our recent issue programs.
Sept 15 - Charter Adm 1 – pertaining to selection of the County Chair……CRC Chair Mark Watts spoke in support and County Chair Jeff Brower spoke in opposition.
Sept 29 - Charter Adm 5 - creation of a conservation lands registry…CRC Chair Mark Watts spoke in support and Growth Management Commentator Catherine Pante spoke in opposition.
Oct 6 - Fla Const Adm 3 - pertaining to Homestead Exemption……Stan Escudero spoke in support and Edgewater Mayor Diezel Depew spoke in opposition.  
 
October 7…..political forecasters are seeing Democrat momentum in the House, while the Senate remains closely contested. Republicans currently hold a 220–215 House advantage, and Democrats need a net gain of 3 seats. In the Senate, Republicans hold 53-47 majority…..so Democrats need to 4 seats to win that majority.
US added 29,000 jobs in September, fewer than economists expected. Unemployment was 4.2%, with about 7.1 million people unemployed.
 
Volusia…..Votes by Mail to Date 10/7……Total Votes by Mail Returned 9,031….Democrats 3,406…..Republicans 3,475…Other Parties 299…NPAs 1,851
 
Volusia School District’s Audit Committee will meet Thursday, October 15, 10:30 AM at Facilities Services Bldg purpose is to review recent audit findings, discuss FY 2027 Risk Assessment, and consider audit priorities and planning activities for the upcoming fiscal year.  
 
US Senate has passed the Protect College Sports Act 77-22 that would create national rules for college athletics and Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) payments. (Sen Ashley Moody voted YES/Sen Rick Scott voted NO). It would give college athletes a clear federal right to earn money from their NIL
 
Daytona Regional Chamber Advocacy Director Drake Wyman spoke about the Chamber’s role in expressing the business view on issues in Volusia, Tallahassee and Washington….

Progress is happening every day at the new Fountainhead Innovation Center at the US 1/I-95 interchange, north of Destination Daytona. If your business is looking for new office space, call me at 566-2140 for a tour……
 
 
Oct 1 is the first day of local entities’ new FY 2026-27 budget. Everything has been finalized with all the budget hearings this past month. See NEXT WEEK’s VM newsletter for each city, county, school board’s general fund/tax rate. Some went to rollback and others had a slight tax increase.
 
Sept 28…. WSBB’s Ammie Ryan and Volusia Matters hosted broadcast regarding Volusia Charter Adm #5 pertaining to conservation lands registry. Environmental Commentator Catherine Pante spoke against amendment 5 and Attorney/Charter Review Chair Mark Watts spoke in support.
Next issue forum….Tuesday, Oct 6, 8:30 to 9 AM regarding State Constitution Adm #3 pertaining to homestead tax exemption.
 
Florida Vote-by-Mail ballots were provided ~1.9 m….to date, 15k were returned            
Of that Volusia Vote-by-Mail ballots were provided ~69 k…to date, 592 were returned mail
 
Early voting in Volusia….. Oct 19 - 31 that includes weekends…. 8 AM to 6 PM... Look for early voting sites on county election page or Volusia Matters newsletter….basically community centers and libraries throughout the county….. One important note is that you can vote anywhere in the county during this time…..
 
Sept 27–29, Mayor Derrick Henry outlined a new push to revitalize the Boardwalk area, including the city-owned property at 29 S Ocean Ave, near the pier and existing entertainment district.
The city hopes to attract year-round entertainment, family activities, jobs, and tourism while encouraging area property owners to make improvements. The goal is to restore the Boardwalk as a destination for residents and visitor
The Mayor ALSO wants to look at how Main Street can connect across the river to Beach St downtown.
 
SEV Chamber hosted a candidates’ forum last night with candidates from new Smyrna Beach, Edgewater, Oak Hill, County Council and legislature.
 
Volusia School District proposed an enhanced compensation package during Sept 22 contract negotiations with VUE to attract, retain, and support employees. The proposal includes a $3 retention-pay increase, 2% higher supplements, a 1.05% cost-of-living adjustment for all bargaining-unit members, and additional salary increases based on experience. Negotiations continue October 6, balancing employee support with financial stability.
 
Sheriff Mike Chitwood recently swore in 12 new deputies who have completed their New Deputy Training program. Many came with prior years of service with other law enforcement agencies across the county, state and country as well as military service.
 
County will hold two free household hazardous waste collection events October 9 at Ormond Beach Public Works, and October 10 at New Smyrna Beach Public Works.
 
Volusia County's Purchasing and Contracts Division has received a 2026 Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award from the National Procurement Institute…..its 18th award since 2003.
 
SunRail commuter train daily average ridership for June to August was 5,516……greater than those months in 2025 and 2024.
 
While Brightline’s PARENT company recently entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy, the company operating the Miami-to-Orlando trains is OK. Their trains continue running, with ridership increasing 14% and revenue increasing 17% in August over a year ago..
The bigger question is what happens to future expansion. Brightline still plans to pursue an Orlando-to-Tampa extension that could connect with the planned Sunshine Corridor and SunRail system.
 
Space Florida continues to invest in launch facilities, aerospace manufacturing, and commercial space infrastructure at Cape Canaveral and Kennedy Space Center, thereby supporting the Space Coast economy, including Volusia.
 
Interview School Bd member Krista Goodrich, Dist 2/Vice Chair discussed……
the district’s Career/Technical Education program
the aviation/aerospace CTE program at Atlantic HS
the District’s FY 2026-27 budget

Podcast News Topics
Progress is happening every day at the new Fountainhead Innovation Center at the US 1/I-95 interchange, north of Destination Daytona. If your business is looking for new office space, call me at 566-2140 for a tour……
Local entities are hosting budget hearing through the end of the month on proposed budgets and tax rates for FY 2026-27.  Check out pages 1-4 of VM newsletter to see what numbers are being considered.
WSBB and Volusia Matters broadcast regarding Volusia Charter Adm 5 pertaining to conservation lands registry will be Tuesday, Sept 29, 8:30 to 9:00 AM with Environmental Commentator Catherine Pante speaking against Amendment 5 with Attorney/Charter Review Chair Mark Watts speaking in support. Tune In to 12:30 AM or 106.7 FM. Our host will be WSBB general manager Ammie Ryan.
 
TEAM Volusia Board of Directors met September 18
Kirsten Pierce, Volusia Schools’ Workforce Innovation Director explained the district’s current/upcoming career/technical education programs.
Prospects……. TEAM Volusia received 74 initial inquiry calls…..21 additional inquiry site visit calls….13 additional site visits……with 14 negotiation stage projects.
TEAM Volusia next board meeting will be Friday, November 13, 8 AM at ERAU
  
Central Florida Commuter Rail Customer Advisory Committee (CAC) will meet Thursday, October 1, 5 PM at the Lynx Admin Bldg in downtown Orlando…… Details will be reported in the October VM newsletter.
Volusia voters can request vote-by-mail ballots for the November 3 election via online, phone, email, mail, or in person. Requests need personal details and signature. Request deadline is October 22 at 5:00 PM.. Officials suggest mailing ballots by October 26 so completed ballots arrive by November 3 at 7:00 PM…Drop boxes are available at designated locations.
 
Volusia’s July Bed tax collections on short-term rentals were up 1.37% countywide ($1.50 M for 2025 to $1.52 M for 2026)
NASCAR moving its summer Daytona International Speedway races from July to the end of August has paid off. While July remains one of the year’s top tourism months, the area now sees a lot more visitors in August despite schools starting back.
 
Daytona Beach Area CVB will host Tourism Partner Day on Thursday, October 8…at the PMR Daytona Beach Club at Jackie Robinson Ballpark. Bryan Griffin, President & CEO of VISIT FLORIDA will be the keynote speaker. No cost to attend but you MUST RSVP by calling 255-0415.
 
This week in Washington……..Congress is focusing on spending, trade, transportation, regulation, and the economy. Now that Congress has approved a temporary continuing “band aid” resolution, Congress must decide whether to approve the FY 2027 spending bills before the next government shutdown deadline…Dec 11. Senate is considering legislation about college sports and NIL payments. Congress is preparing for a funding debate.
 
US House recently passed National Fraud Enforcement Division Act and Tax Relief for Fraud Victims Act
Both bills now move to the Senate.
 
Comments by FBH Communities’ Exec Director Mica Lill…
 
Daytona Regional Chamber’s 2026 Annual Awards ceremony will be Wednesday, Sept. 30, 4 to 6 PM at the Renaissance Daytona Beach Oceanfront Hotel.
 
Longtime State legislator and County Council member Pat Patterson passed away earlier this week.
 
Gov DeSantis awarded over $10 million in bonuses to 1,500 new law enforcement officers.
 
Interview with Lake Helen Mayor Roger Eckert discussed…
How can Lake Helen accommodate new residential/
commercial development and protect its small-town character that makes unique?
What are the city’s biggest challenges with its water system, and what improvements are planned to ensure reliable service for residents as the community grows?
What proactive steps is the City taking in regard to stormwater management/flood control?
As Lake Helen works on its budget, what are your thoughts regarding the potential revenue impact of Adm 3 – Homestead Exemption?
What are Lake Helen’s most urgent infrastructure needs—roads, stormwater, drainage, sidewalks or other public facilities—and how will the city pay for them?
What do you want Lake Helen to look like in the next 5-10 years

Podcast News Topics
Progress is happening every day at the new Fountainhead Innovation Center at the US 1/I-95 interchange, north of Destination Daytona. If your business is looking for new office space, call me at 566-2140 for a tour……
Local entities are hosting budget hearing through the end of the month on proposed budgets and tax rates for FY 2026-27.  Check out pages 1-4 of VM newsletter to see what numbers are being considered.
 
Sept 14 - Edgewater City Council…..
·   unanimously approved a permanent moratorium to block development of data centers, hyperscale facilities, and other high-energy data-processing facilities. Edgewater voters are also scheduled to consider a November charter amendment that could make the prohibition part of the city charter.
·   approved fire services assessments for FY 2026-27 to fund fire protection services, facilities, and programs, distributing costs among properties…
·   will attend a joint public meeting with New Smyrna Beach, Oak Hill, and the Volusia County Council to address shared economic development priorities affecting SE Volusia on October 14 at the Brannon Center.
·   looked into adjusting their Fire Rescue Law Enforcement General Govt, Parks & Recreation, Multi-Model transportation impact fees.
 
Sept 14 - Elected Officials Roundtable met to discuss current issues of common interest……
Public Works Director Ben Bartlett discussed the County’s Stormwater Resilience Dashboard which shows ongoing projects to reduce flood risks, improve drainage, and strengthen infrastructure throughout all 16 cities.
DB Shores Mayor Nancy Miller and County Councilman Jake Johansson provided an update on cities’ efforts regarding stormwater management and flood control
Coastal Director Jessica Fentress discussed beach feasibility/Army Corp of Engineers’ Coastal Storm Risk study
Sept 14 - First Step Shelter Bd met to update on current activities……it was first official meeting for their new exec Susan Clark……shelter had 60 intakes in August…plus 96 individuals in the Rose Ann Tornatore safe zone…
 
Sept 15 - PO City Council approved their FY 2027 stormwater utility assessment roll and kept existing fee rates unchanged. The assessment roll lists properties subject to the fee, which will be collected through annual property tax bills.
 
Sept 22 - County Council will take up a joint project agreement with City of Daytona Beach on Harvey Ave Beach Approach Improvements. City Daytona Beach and the County will combine Boardwalk and Harvey Ave beach ramp improvements into one project.
 
County’s Emergency Management Dept recently hosted a Healthcare Summit to connect healthcare providers, fire depts to share experiences, discuss how they can better collaborate during hurricanes, etc
 
Sept 18 - Team Volusia Bd meets tomorrow and will report on business prospects there seeking to locate in the county. VM will report on that meeting in next week’s podcast.
 
Sept 16 - US Federal Reserve raised its interest rate by a quarter of a percentage point moving the federal funds target range from 3.50%–3.75% to 3.75%–4.00%……the Fed’s first rate increase since July 2023.
 
The interest rate on the 10-year Treasury note has climbed to just over 5%....its highest level in almost 20 years. It’s due to concerns about inflation, higher oil prices and expectations of this week’s Federal Reserve Bd meeting.
 
Estimated Tax Schedule. Last estimated quarterly tax payment was due Sept 15…..and the fourth estimated quarterly payment for 2026 is January 15, 2027. See October VM newsletter for a complete schedule…..
 
Interview with Ponce Inlet Mayor Lois Paritsky
Ponce Inlet has implemented a townwide stormwater utility — what does that actually change for the town?
Ponce Inlet has a septic-to-sewer project with about $10 million secured for infrastructure, but still needs roughly $1.95 million to connect additional homes. Details?
Ponce Inlet is considering a fire non-ad valorem assessment — how does that fit into the same revenue strategy?
Residents' Coalition's Home Rule forum — why did the group feel this forum was necessary, and what came out of it?

Progress is happening every day at the new Fountainhead Innovation Center at the US 1/I-95 interchange, north of Destination Daytona. If your business is looking for new office space, call me at 566-2140 for a tour……
Sept 1 budget hearing, County Council’s proposed 2026–27 budget would increase Fire Rescue funding by nearly 3%, from ~ $81.8 million to ~$84 million...Council is moving forward with a net budget is ~$1.06 billion. Property taxes provide $455.5 million (42.8% of net revenue). Final budget hearing is September 22.
DB City Commission plans to change retirement benefits for police officers and firefighters retiring after October 1.
Sept 9 - With NSB Sports Complex use/expenses increasing, NSB City Commission looking to increase fees to raise revenue by $10,000 to cover expenses tied to inflation rates.
Deltona City Commission took up Fla Dept of Environmental Protection and St Johns River WMD supporting Deltona’s aquifer recharge project via a 50/50 grant to build a recharge well and two monitoring wells
Sept 9 - DB Shores City Commission adopted a 2026 Vulnerability Assessment created by the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council and by Fla’s Resilient Florida Program
Sept 9 - Deland City Commission addressed an ordinance to change water, sewer, and reclaimed-water rates by resolution and remove account maintenance fees and include those costs in monthly base charges
Sept 9 - DeBary City Council discussed FY 2027-28 budget requirements pursuant to HB 1329 Local Government Financial Transparency/Accountability Act
On September 30…
Non-tipped employees: minimum wage rises from $14.00 to $15.00/hour
Tipped employees: cash wage rises from $10.98 to $11.98/hour
2026 US midterm elections choose all 435 members of the House and about 35 members of the Senate…Biggest fight for control of the US House. Current make Up of US House is 218 Republicans—214 Democrats  - 1 Independent—2 Vacancies
Fla’s gambling compact with the Seminole Tribe is still active….2021 compact gives the Seminoles exclusive control over certain types of gambling, including online sports betting. Hard Rock Bet remains the only traditional online sportsbook operating statewide.
The newest challenge comes from prediction-market companies such as Kalshi
Interview with Edgewater Mayor Diezel Depew
New Aerospace Related Activity in the City?
Deering Park Activity ?
Adm 3 Homestead Exemption?
Proactive Measure on Flood Control?