Joseph LaSata

The City Manager provided an extensive update detailing completed stormwater improvements, including the installation of a new inlet on Boston Avenue and the rehabilitation of an inlet on Kenilworth Avenue. Progress on the Stevens Canal Bank Stabilization Project, including soil boring completion and the removal of a hazardous leaning tree, was reported. Significant work involved cleaning backflow preventers City-wide and replacing Lift Station #4 on Anastasia Drive to increase pumping capacity. A motion was carried unanimously to place a memorial plaque in the City of South Daytona Park of Honor for former Mayor George F. Locke III. The City Attorney briefed the Council on pending Florida Legislative Session matters, specifically property tax reform proposals, potential increases to sovereign immunity limits, and land-use bills affecting local development control. During the public comment session, citizens addressed flooding issues and lauded the city's beautification efforts and business attraction. The Consent Agenda included calling for a general election in August 2026 and approving a cooperation agreement for law enforcement services with Volusia County. On the Regular Agenda, the purchase of sewer wet well mixers for Lift Stations #12 and #17 from Hydra Service was approved to extend pump life.

The City Manager reported on extensive stormwater improvements completed or in progress, including ditch clearing, the purchase of a portable generator, the design of a new stormwater pond on Brian Avenue, repairs to lines, and the installation of a permanent generator at Reed Canal Park. The City also partnered with Volusia County to clear Reed Canal. The City Attorney reported on real estate issues, including code enforcement actions. Mayor Hall presented four Citizen of the Year Awards for 2025, recognizing volunteers for their significant community service contributions, including Vice-Mayor Quartier. Volusia County Councilmember Matt Reinhart provided updates on county initiatives, including Transform 386 funding for over $120 million in stormwater infrastructure, the approval of a $500,000 Stormwater and Resiliency Master Plan for South Daytona, and progress on the Second Chance Initiative. During the public hearing segment, citizens raised concerns about the Brian Avenue stormwater pond and mosquito mitigation, and a drone sighting. The consent agenda was approved, covering the approval of previous minutes, adopting revised Personnel Policy, approving the first amendment to the Legal Services Agreement with the City Attorney, and awarding grants and a construction contract for the Fire Department Bunk Room remodel. The regular agenda included the approval of a resolution declaring the structure at 2111 Brian Avenue unsafe and authorizing demolition if the owner fails to comply with engineering assessment and repair/demolition deadlines. The Council also approved an amendment to the Joint Project Agreement with Volusia County for the Lantern Park Stormwater Pond Project, solidifying the $3.5 million total cost and funding responsibilities.

The City Council meeting included reports from the City Manager detailing numerous stormwater improvements completed throughout the year, such as ditch clearing, purchasing a portable generator, beginning design for a new stormwater pond on Brian Avenue, repairing lines at Anastasia Drive and Hawthorne Lane, installing a permanent generator at Reed Canal Park, and expanding a pond on Windle Lane. The City Attorney reported on real estate and code enforcement issues, including the property at 2111 Brian Avenue. During presentations, the Mayor awarded four Citizen of the Year Awards, recognizing significant volunteer service hours. Volusia County Council Vice Chair Matt Reinhart provided updates on the Transform 386 initiative, significant allocations for stormwater infrastructure, and the upcoming comprehensive Stormwater and Resiliency Master Plan for South Daytona. Citizens addressed concerns regarding the Brian Avenue stormwater pond/mosquito mitigation and a drone sighting. The Consent Agenda was approved, covering the adoption of revised Personnel Policy and the amendment to the Legal Services Agreement with the City Attorney. The Regular Agenda featured a Public Hearing and subsequent approval of a resolution to declare the structure at 2111 Brian Avenue unsafe and authorize demolition if the owner fails to submit engineering assessments and permits by January 9, 2026. The Council also approved an amendment to the Joint Project Agreement with Volusia County for the Lantern Park Stormwater Pond Project, setting the total cost at $3.5 million, with the City responsible for $350,000.

The Special Meeting primarily addressed Resolution No. 2025-34 during a public hearing. This resolution elected not to exempt property from ad valorem property tax levies imposed by the City of South Daytona, pursuant to Florida Statutes Section 196.1978(3)(D)1.A. The basis for this decision was a finding, supported by the Shimberg Center for Housing Studies Annual Report, that the City has a surplus of affordable and available housing units. The resolution directs the Volusia County Property Appraiser not to grant eligible tax exemptions for the upcoming tax roll or subsequent years.

The City Council is considering Resolution No. 2025-29 regarding the property located at 2111 Brian Avenue. The resolution addresses the structure's unsafe and unsanitary conditions, citing violations such as the absence of electrical and water service, structural deterioration, damaged window and door frames, and the presence of garbage and open food containers. The Special Master has already found the property to be in violation of City Codes and established compliance deadlines, which the property owner failed to meet. The resolution authorizes the city to proceed with the demolition of the structure if the owner fails to submit a structural assessment and all required permit applications by January 9, 2026. The costs of demolition will be assessed as a lien against the property.