During the City of DeLand City Commission Workshop held on February 15, 2025, officials addressed pressing challenges related to personnel recruitment and retention amid ongoing city growth. The discussions highlighted the difficulties departments face in attracting and keeping staff, particularly in entry-level positions, which has become a significant concern for city operations.

Mayor and commissioners noted that the city's steady growth has created a dual challenge: not only must the city keep pace with staffing demands, but it must also remain competitive with neighboring cities in terms of employment opportunities. This situation is compounded by a generational shift in work ethic, which some departments are struggling to navigate.

The Mayor emphasized the need for a strategic approach to address these "growing pains." He pointed out that the city cannot rely on a single centralized police station or a limited workforce to manage increasing demands. Furthermore, the financial landscape complicates these efforts, as the city faces decreasing funds despite its growth. The Mayor explained that while the community expects more resources to manage growth, exemptions and rising costs are straining the budget.

Infrastructure also emerged as a critical topic, with discussions around the need for investment in aging utility systems and physical structures. The city is also grappling with the challenge of outdated software and technology, which are nearing the end of their usable lifespans. Additionally, the funding of a homeless shelter has put further pressure on city reserves, prompting officials to seek external funding sources like grants.

Commissioner Reed acknowledged the importance of community involvement, thanking residents who attended the workshop. He noted that many discussions mirrored those from the previous year, indicating ongoing issues that require attention. Reed suggested that implementing new systems could help improve staff retention, although he recognized that this would be a topic for future discussions.

Overall, the workshop underscored the need for the City of DeLand to develop comprehensive strategies to address staffing challenges, infrastructure needs, and financial constraints as it continues to grow. The commission's commitment to engaging with the community and exploring innovative solutions will be crucial in navigating these complex issues moving forward.