Special City Council Meeting 06-17-26

The City of DeBary held a special City Council meeting on June 17, 2026, focusing primarily on land development code amendments and significant environmental infrastructure projects. The council approved Ordinance 07-2026, which adjusted building setback and frontage requirements in the form-based code overlay district to facilitate commercial development on corner and irregularly shaped lots. Additionally, the council approved Resolution 2026-14 to support a $256,000 splash pad improvement project funded through the Echo grant program. The meeting's major discussion centered on the Gemini Springs Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP) and the septic to sewer conversion program mandated by the state to reduce nutrient pollution in local springs. Presentations detailed the technical, environmental, and financial aspects of the multi-phase project, with an estimated $35 million cost for phase one and similar costs for subsequent phases. The council discussed funding strategies, including aggressive pursuit of state and federal grants to minimize costs to residents, who face potential hookup fees and ongoing maintenance expenses. The city manager and Volusia County Utilities emphasized the importance of collaboration and securing shovel-ready projects to leverage funding. The council expressed concerns about the financial impact on residents and the urgency of meeting state mandates by the 2038 deadline. No votes were taken on funding strategies during the meeting, but there was consensus on moving forward with phase one design and construction while seeking grants for later phases.