During a recent city commission meeting, officials discussed the potential acquisition of three properties in Daytona Beach, emphasizing the need for thorough evaluations before any decisions are made. The properties under consideration include the Cobham Coal building, the old Wells Fargo building, and a site at 230 North Beach Street, which has been highlighted as a prime location due to its proximity to anticipated county redevelopment efforts.

City Manager Jim Morris presented a report detailing the pros and cons of each property, noting that the commission has the authority to set policy regarding acquisitions. He emphasized that no contracts or appraisals were currently before the commission, and the meeting's purpose was to gather input on how to proceed with evaluations.

Concerns were raised regarding environmental issues, particularly asbestos, at the North Beach Street property. Commissioner Cantu expressed apprehension about the potential liabilities associated with acquiring a building that may be under investigation for asbestos violations. She urged caution, suggesting that the city should not pursue the property until the investigation is resolved.

The discussion also touched on the legal implications of using excess funds for property purchases. City Attorney Lynn Gross clarified that while the statute allows for the construction of buildings, it does not explicitly permit the purchase of property with excess funds. This has led to debates among commissioners about the best course of action to avoid legal repercussions while addressing the city's growing needs.

The commission ultimately directed staff to conduct further evaluations, including appraisals and environmental assessments, for all three properties. This decision aims to provide the commission with comprehensive data to make informed choices about potential acquisitions and to explore funding options that comply with legal requirements.

As the meeting progressed, public comments highlighted community concerns about affordable housing and the need for economic development. Residents urged the commission to prioritize creating affordable housing solutions, linking new commercial developments to the demand for housing. The discussion underscored the ongoing challenges faced by working-class families in securing affordable living arrangements in the area.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the commission to gather more information and continue discussions on the future of the properties and the broader issue of affordable housing in Daytona Beach.