VC 05 05 16

The County of Volusia Council meeting on May 5, 2016, covered a broad range of topics including homelessness progress updates, retirements of long-serving public officials, amendments to the Volusia Growth Management Commission (VGMC) rules, dissolution of the East Volusia Transportation Tax District, and approval of a new self-funded group health insurance administrative services contract. Significant discussion focused on the VGMC rule changes aimed at streamlining plan amendment reviews and limiting standing to municipalities and the school board, which sparked public debate about citizen participation rights. The council also approved dissolving the East Volusia Transportation Tax District due to countywide service coverage. A major agenda item was the selection of SIGA Health and Life Insurance Company to provide health insurance services, following a comprehensive employee-involved RFP process. Economic development updates highlighted positive employment growth and construction activity. The council also addressed federal lobbying efforts to secure funding for local projects, including water quality initiatives and transportation. Public participation included passionate appeals regarding the reinstatement of a prohibition on black bear hunting in Florida, reflecting community environmental concerns. The meeting concluded with discussions on SunRail governance and local memorial park naming, emphasizing the council's focus on community engagement, fiscal responsibility, and intergovernmental collaboration.