The City Council of DeBary, Florida, convened on May 9, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on stormwater management and project funding.

The meeting began with an update on the Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) projects. It was noted that the funding for these projects is allocated over an extended period, and currently, there are multiple projects advancing in the funding queue. New projects submitted will typically be placed behind those already in line, ensuring that previously approved projects maintain their positions. This system allows for a structured approach to project funding, although it means that no new projects will displace those already waiting for funding.

City Manager provided an update on the ongoing efforts related to stormwater management. A subcommittee formed during the elected official roundtable is actively working with other cities and the county to develop a comprehensive action plan. Recent meetings have included presentations from stakeholders such as the St. Johns River Water Management District and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).

A significant focus of the discussions has been the integration of stormwater infrastructure data into a unified Geographic Information System (GIS). This system aims to provide a comprehensive view of stormwater infrastructure across the county, allowing for better planning and coordination of projects. Currently, each city maintains its own GIS data, but the goal is to merge these into a single county-wide system.

The City Manager emphasized that while progress is being made, the timeline for stormwater improvements is lengthy. Engineering processes alone can take over 18 months, and residents should not expect immediate improvements before the upcoming hurricane season. The city is conducting a fact-based study to identify necessary projects and prioritize those that can be funded with available resources to mitigate flooding issues across Volusia County.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the city's commitment to addressing stormwater challenges through collaborative efforts and strategic planning, although the path forward will require time and financial resources. The council will continue to monitor the progress of these initiatives in future meetings.