Chris Byle

The City Commission meeting addressed several items through the Consent Agenda, which were subsequently approved. Key approvals included an FDOT Offsite Maintenance Agreement concerning the US1/I95 Interchange design and construction, bid awards for a Public Works Generator to Accurate Power and Technology, Inc., and the Lift Station 4P Rehabilitation project to Danus Utilities, Inc. Further approvals covered work authorizations for construction administration services for Lift Station 4P Rehabilitation and Manhole Replacement Services. The Commission also authorized the purchase of two generators for the Sports Complex off a rental contract and approved the execution of a Quitclaim Deed to release a portion of a drainage and utility easement at 34 Greenvale Drive. Disposition items regarding administrative variances and advisory board appointee conflicts were approved. Additionally, the Commission approved on second reading Ordinance No. 2026-03, which amends authority for recording liens related to unsafe building abatement.

Key discussions during the meeting included the presentation of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for Fiscal Year 2024-2025, indicating the city's strong financial standing. The Consent Agenda covered several resolutions, such as accepting a utility easement from the Ormond Beach Historical Society, executing a Mutual Aid Agreement with Volusia County, approving a contract name change for utility billing services from Cathedral Corporation to FSSI East Inc., renewing the Casements Guild Lease Agreement, awarding the bid for the 2026 Roadway Resurfacing Project to Sparks Concrete, LLC d/b/a Sparks Concrete & Asphalt, and authorizing work and amendments for utility and water treatment plant projects. The Commission also proceeded with the first reading of an Ordinance amending Section 8-4 regarding the authority to record liens for unsafe building abatement. Discussion items focused on proposed downtown sidewalk renovations, emphasizing ADA and Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) compliance, the demolition of a beachside residential building, advertising strategy for the Performing Arts Center, and exploring the possibility of a par three golf course on the Riverbend airport property subject to FAA approval. Finally, the Commission directed staff to research regulations for electric bicycles (e-bikes) following safety concerns.

The meeting commenced with an invocation and included audience remarks regarding the city's airport vision and support for related initiatives. A key discussion point was the approval of the consent agenda, which involved a contentious discussion and subsequent continuance of a resolution authorizing a $30,000 change order for the Water Treatment Plant Elevated Water Tank Rehabilitation Project due to unforeseen severe rust discovered after initial drone inspections. The Commission also discussed and took action on items related to the septic-to-sewer project on the North Peninsula, including seeking support from Volusia County Council. Public hearings included the first reading of an ordinance to approve an amended interlocal service boundary agreement with Volusia County concerning the north U.S. 1 joint planning area and annexation of Plantation Oaks subdivision, as well as the first reading of an ordinance amending the Future Land-Use Element regarding a property swap that occurred in 2008 involving the School Board and Deer Creek.

The meeting commenced with the introduction of city officials and a guest pastor who provided the invocation and followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. A proclamation was presented to former Orman Beach Mayor and current Vùcha County Chair, Ed Kelly, in recognition of his extensive public service and contributions, particularly establishing responsible fiscal policies. During audience remarks, a local pastor commended the police department for upholding the law and maintaining an open-door policy. Another speaker thanked staff for organizing a small business event and provided an update on plans for a new bait shop. The Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the November 4, 2020, and November 17, 2020, meetings. The consent agenda was approved, with Item N pulled for separate discussion. This pulled item involved Resolution Number 2020-1187, accepting a proposal from AM Wile Construction Inc. for Construction Management Services regarding the McDonald House restoration (East and West elevations). Discussion clarified that the project will proceed in phases, focusing initially on the East and West walls, utilizing a time and materials contract, and is funded by ECHO funds from Volusia County, a pledge from the Historical Society, and the City of Ormond Beach.

This session, part of a six-part community engagement series, focused on Leisure and Cultural Services. Key discussion points included an overview of the Leisure Services Department, which manages recreational events, programs, and cultural activities, as well as maintenance for 72 city-owned facilities and 46 parks, including city-wide landscaping management. The department's favorable standing relative to national standards for parkland per resident was highlighted. Specific park amenities discussed included Annie Romano Beachfront Park, noted for its tax-funded development and traffic-free beach zone negotiated with Volusia County; Rockefeller Gardens, detailing site improvements for event hosting and movie nights; and Central Park, emphasizing its 150 acres, educational partnerships with Pine Trail Elementary School for nature identification markers, and community gardens supported by volunteers. The session also covered recreational programs like concerts and community partnerships, such as a Little Free Library modeled after the Bailey River Bridge.