Special City Council Meeting 09-09-26

The City of DeBary held a special city council meeting on September 9, 2026, primarily focused on budgetary and procurement matters. The council adopted a tentative millage rate of 3.65, representing a 3.6% increase over the rollback rate, and approved the tentative annual operating budget for fiscal year 2026-2027. Key budget highlights included increases in public safety contracts, such as a $350,000 (7.5%) increase for the sheriff's contract and a 9.6% increase in fire services, including payments for a new fire truck. Capital projects funded included stormwater improvements, park upgrades, and resurfacing projects, supported by grants totaling several million dollars. The council also approved a six-month moratorium on development permits for artificial intelligence data centers to allow time for further study and regulatory development, citing concerns about power, water usage, noise, and environmental impacts. Additionally, the council approved a purchase and sale agreement with Synergies Development LLC for a property at 150 South Charles, aiming to redevelop it into a mixed-use retail and entertainment center, with terms ensuring demolition within 90 days of closing and a purchase price of $700,000. The meeting included presentations on new budget software to improve transparency and compliance with state legislation, and discussions on economic development and community impact of proposed projects.