DeLand, Florida Development News
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City Commission Regular Meeting - Media
Published: Jul 20, 2026
City Proclaims July as Parks and Recreation Month, Highlighting Community Benefits
The City Commission recognized July as Parks and Recreation Month through a proclamation read by Commissioner Richard Pilot. The proclamation highlighted the integral role of parks and recreation in promoting community health and wellness, encouraging physical activity, supporting childhood development, boosting economic prosperity through tourism and property values, and contributing to environmental well-being and resilience against climate change. It noted that parks provide spaces for sports, nature, and outdoor recreation, and that programming like youth sports and environmental education is critical for development. The proclamation also cited the economic benefits, including increased property values, tourism, business attraction, and crime reduction. It concluded by urging citizens to recognize the benefits of parks and recreation.
Tennis Center Expansion Project Bids Rejected Due to Cost Overruns
The City Commission voted to reject bids for the David E. Disney Tennis Center/Pickleball Court Expansion and Upgrade project. The project's cost estimate had escalated from an original $3.5 million to $5.5 million in the submitted bids, a nearly $2 million increase. Staff recommended rejecting the bids due to this significant cost overrun and the uncertainty surrounding potential reductions in property tax revenue due to Amendment 3. Commissioners discussed that even without the tax revenue uncertainty, the $5.5 million cost was deemed too high, especially compared to a previously canceled $10 million basketball facility project. The commission decided to put the project on hold to allow staff time to re-evaluate the project's scope and feasibility, potentially reconceiving the project or exploring value engineering options. The decision to reject bids was made on a motion by Pylo, seconded by Reed, and carried.
Resident Reports Rabid Raccoon Incident, Cites Lack of Agency Response
During the public comments section, resident James Green reported an incident involving a raccoon exhibiting rabies symptoms on Ambrose Street. He stated that despite calling 911, animal control, and the police department, no agency responded to remove the animal. He described the raccoon foaming at the mouth and acting erratically. He eventually heard two gunshots, and the raccoon was gone. Green expressed concern about the lack of response from city agencies regarding wild animals and the potential risk to residents, including his great-grandchildren. Commissioner Byron inquired about the state's role in mandating requirements, and it was clarified that the EPA sets standards enforced by the state. Vice Mayor Davis noted that the city's animal control handles domesticated animals, not wild ones, which typically fall under Fish and Wildlife. The commission agreed to look into the incident and potentially partner with agencies trained in handling wild animals, acknowledging this isn't the first time concerns about this issue have been raised.
Easement Accepted for West Waltz Ave and South Palmetto Ave
The City Commission accepted an easement for West Waltz Avenue and South Palmetto Avenue, related to the right-of-way abandonment approved earlier. Mr. Carson, from staff, indicated this easement is necessary to protect public infrastructure and utilities in the vacated area. The acceptance of this easement is a procedural step following the ordinance that abandoned the specified right-of-way, ensuring continued access and protection for essential services. The motion to approve was made by Pyla and seconded by Davis, and it carried.
City Approves PFAS Water Treatment Plan, Pursues State Funding
The city commission approved a resolution to adopt a state revolving fund facilities plan and business plan for the water plant PFAS treatment and removal project. The plan, developed by McKim and Creed, outlines a strategy to address PFAS contamination in the city's water supply, with a compliance deadline of April 2029. The recommended solution involves using PFAS selective ion exchange, estimated to cost $79 million over 20 years, with potential funding through State Revolving Funds (SRF). Six of the city's eleven water treatment plants exceed current proposed MCLs for PFAS. The plan includes consolidating three plants near Rowground Park into a single facility due to space constraints and equipping the other three plants with treatment vessels. The SRF loan offers favorable conditions, and officials emphasized that PFAS regulations are likely to remain or become stricter. The city will submit the plan to SRF for consideration and begin preparing for design services.
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Building Department Condemnation Hearing - Media
Code Enforcement Special Magistrate - Media
City Commission Regular Meeting - Media
Technical Review Committee (TRC) - Media
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