Concerns over potential property tax increases dominated the City of DeLand City Commission Workshop on February 15, 2025, as officials grappled with budgetary challenges and the impact on local businesses and residents.

Commissioners expressed apprehension about an 8% increase in property taxes, warning that such a hike could drive businesses away from DeLand to neighboring cities like Orange City and Daytona. One commissioner highlighted the delicate balance between generating revenue and maintaining a competitive edge in attracting new companies to the area. “If businesses are paying an extra 10% in property tax, that’s an avenue to go look elsewhere,” they stated, emphasizing the need for a thoughtful approach to budgeting.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of property tax increases on the community, particularly for younger families and new homeowners who may struggle with rising costs. “It makes it hard for that next generation to actually afford to live in it,” one commissioner noted, pointing out that increased taxes could lead to higher rental prices as landlords pass on costs to tenants.

While some commissioners advocated for maintaining the current millage rate of 3.23, others acknowledged the necessity of making tough decisions to ensure the city’s financial health. “We do have to look at the interests of our citizens and our community,” one commissioner remarked, stressing the importance of balancing service levels with fiscal responsibility.

As the city prepares for future budget discussions, the consensus appears to lean towards caution, with many officials favoring a more conservative approach to tax increases. The workshop underscored the ongoing challenge of funding essential services while fostering a thriving local economy, leaving residents and businesses alike to await the final decisions that will shape DeLand’s financial landscape.