Volusia County residents demand action on aggressive parking enforcement and flooding solutions

Volusia County Council members are facing pressing concerns from residents regarding parking enforcement and flooding issues following a recent meeting on January 21, 2025.

During the session, Roy Matson, a lifelong commercial fisherman from New Smyrna Beach, raised alarms about the new parking enforcement measures that have made it difficult for him and others to operate their businesses during nighttime hours. Matson highlighted that the aggressive enforcement has resulted in unexpected fines, complicating the livelihoods of those who rely on late-night parking. He urged the council to reconsider the current policies, emphasizing the need for a more balanced approach that accommodates local business needs.

Catherine Levinson, a resident of Miller Lake, also addressed the council, expressing frustration over illegal drainage practices from neighboring Orange City that are impacting her community's lake. Levinson called for immediate action to stop the dumping of water into Miller Lake, which she described as a solvable issue. She invited council members to visit the area to witness the problem firsthand and urged them to take decisive action to protect local water resources.

Dave Kremer, another Miller Lake resident, echoed these concerns, particularly regarding ongoing flooding issues that have left homes uninhabitable. Kremer thanked council members for previous meetings focused on flooding but pressed for a clear plan to address the situation. He expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of a disaster response plan, questioning the preparedness of county officials for future emergencies.

The council members acknowledged the residents' concerns and indicated a willingness to explore solutions, particularly regarding Matson's parking issues. As discussions continue, the council is expected to prioritize community needs and work towards actionable resolutions that address both parking enforcement and flooding challenges in Volusia County.