2026 Charter Review Committee - Meeting 11 - 02/09/2026

The County of Volusia's 2026 Charter Review Committee convened to discuss several key issues related to conservation land protections and charter amendments. A significant portion of the meeting focused on a proposed amendment to establish a conservation land registry, which would require county council approval for adding or removing lands designated for conservation. Public input emphasized the importance of voter approval before selling or converting protected lands, referencing similar protections in Elatchua County. Legal counsel advised that requiring a public referendum might not be enforceable under state law, recommending instead a higher voting threshold by the county council for land disposition. The committee debated the voting thresholds, ultimately maintaining a majority plus one vote requirement for both adding and removing lands from the registry. Additionally, the committee reviewed and approved several other charter amendments related to council structure, personnel administration, and compensation, aiming to streamline governance and clarify roles. The meeting concluded with plans to form a committee to draft a report and recommendations for the county council, including considerations for emerging issues such as electric vehicle taxation and growth management policies.