[{"_1":2,"_99":-5,"_100":-5},"loaderData",{"_3":4,"_26":27},"root",{"_5":6,"_17":10,"_18":19,"_20":21,"_22":10,"_23":-5,"_24":-5,"_25":10},"user",{"_7":8,"_9":10,"_11":10,"_12":-5,"_13":-5,"_14":15,"_16":-5},"roles",[],"isAuthenticated",false,"isPremium","planName","subscriptionStatus","featureFlags",{},"insightsBudget","isDevelopmentHost","userPreferences",{},"recaptchaSiteKey","6LcvOJcUAAAAAHsB-gPGfGktcRlKpH7OTIU_dMTD","isImpersonating","impersonation","affiliateStatus","isFreedomPortal","routes/v2/article/layout",{"_28":29,"_30":31},"notFound",true,"relatedArticles",[32,75,87],{"_33":34,"_35":36,"_37":38,"_39":40,"_41":42,"_43":44,"_45":46,"_47":48,"_49":50,"_51":52,"_53":54,"_55":56,"_57":58,"_59":60,"_61":62,"_63":64,"_65":66,"_67":68,"_69":70,"_71":68,"_72":73,"_74":73},"mediaId",6122051,"mediaKeyId","2696038-80729d3f471641183055f6b3851a767a","parentId",2696038,"title","Port Orange council votes 3‑2 to continue fluoridating water while awaiting state action after lengthy public debate","audioSeconds",5370,"startMs",5410000,"endMs",10780000,"viewUrl","/Search/View?dp=1&key=2696038-80729d3f471641183055f6b3851a767a&start=5410&end=10780","thumbnailUrl","https://assets.pipeline.soar.com/2696038-80729d3f471641183055f6b3851a767a/thumbnail_5410000.jpg","articleUrl","/articles/6122051/Port-Orange/Volusia-County/Florida/Port-Orange-council-votes-32-to-continue-fluoridating-water-while-awaiting-state-action-after-lengthy-public-debate","mediaUrl","https://secure.pipeline.soar.com/6122051-153f5137e7f1d011e1332ae02ca0ba83/orig.mp4?Expires=1771094836&Signature=WleA1a1xbeZQmsWAfChjm3Eh~6~HmpxQ08trs7oYqJAxJ-9tegVKY0j4k0W-2aCoKjCiZGZ-n8W5CvHT-~kluVZWVmzc73SKrgKlidiYFvhF8675dyWSQndhYoam4FEdLxe1w0y9IeJaYC86xz~BdDUq5eVPXptR9eTrQS4u~S4VGdAtsPQ33c1rXR2y0X5o0fpVxyPo867VY9qFbwHWaqb5jbTt7f0air6hDYyIe9Ml09z-l03UBk-NPOmEs8c-hv3C9uRG2zig9fcW-2xcabO1nkt8Tf9NT734n~Dd-SP17TiJ20BZUDcWZpLfIBrC-Q8wWtsr71ObVUtkfB4G~A__&Key-Pair-Id=KUT5TJCACFTXG","author","City of Port Orange, FL","date","2025-03-19T21:36:35.507Z","article","Port Orange city council voted 3‑2 to continue fluoridating the municipal water supply while awaiting potential action by the Florida legislature or state agencies, following an extended public hearing that drew health professionals, residents and activists.

City staff opened the discussion noting the city currently fluoridates its water and that the Florida surgeon general recently recommended municipalities cease fluoridation. Council members, staff and more than two dozen members of the public offered testimony for and against continuance. After debate, a motion to continue the current practice until the state takes action carried 3‑2.

The public comment period drew opposing testimony. Several dental and public‑health professionals spoke in favor of continuing fluoridation, saying it reduces childhood tooth decay and benefits underserved residents. Endodontist Dr. Bruce Mann said his practice treats children who lack preventive care and that, in his experience, decay rates are higher where fluoridation is absent. Dentist Dr. Jack Goldie, who worked locally for decades, told council fluoridation has “worked” historically and prevents painful care and more invasive treatments.

Residents and activists opposed to fluoridation argued for individual informed‑consent rights and cited recent studies and a federal court ruling that directed the EPA to reevaluate fluoride risks. Tara Hill, identified with a statewide effort to end public water fluoridation, framed the issue as “a freedom issue” and urged council to honor informed‑consent principles. Other opponents pointed to recent research linking higher fluoride exposure with neurodevelopmental differences in children and urged removal of the additive.

Several residents raised equity and practical concerns. Jennifer (last name not provided), who said she is a single parent and works multiple jobs, said she would be forced to buy filtration or bottled water if fluoridation remains and that advanced filtration is unaffordable for some households. Other speakers urged the council to wait for the state legislature to act; Utah and several other jurisdictions were cited in public remarks as examples of recent policy shifts.

Staff and council discussed technical and legal issues. Public utilities staff explained the treatment chemical (hydrofluosilicic acid) is dosed and becomes fluoride in water chemistry; staff said the system is monitored hourly and the city’s raw groundwater already contains low levels of natural fluoride (about 0.18 mg/L), with final dosing adjusted to reach target public‑health levels. City attorney and staff also noted that Florida case law has considered the consent issue; members discussed pending state bills and a federal court order that directed a reevaluation of fluoride standards.

Council member comments reflected divided viewpoints. Some members said the decision should be made by voters or by the state because the issue is complex and statewide action is imminent; others said the city has a responsibility to provide safe water for all residents, especially children who benefit from fluoridation.

When council took a vote, the result was 3 in favor of continuing fluoridation and 2 opposed. Council recorded that it will reconsider the policy if state lawmakers or state agencies issue binding direction.

Key public and staff points recorded on the transcript:
• Staff: the city currently fluoridates the public water system; the Florida surgeon general issued a recommendation to cease fluoridation. (staff remarks recorded on the public record)
• Pro‑fluoride testimony: multiple local dentists and specialists argued fluoridation reduces childhood tooth decay and helps residents without regular access to dental care.
• Anti‑fluoride testimony: speakers cited recent studies and a federal court order, argued for individual consent, and urged removing hydrofluosilicic acid from the municipal supply.

Council’s motion to continue the current practice was recorded and carried by roll call (three yes, two no). Council said it will monitor state legislative and regulatory developments and revisit the matter if the state issues definitive guidance or law.","mediaType","Video","parentTitle","City Council Regular Meeting - 03/18/2025","oneSentenceSummary","After an extended public hearing with dozens of speakers both for and against fluoridation, council voted 3‑2 to continue adding fluoride to municipal water until the state legislature or state agencies act.","taxTitle","Port Orange, Volusia County, Florida","taxId",5659,"location","headline","","shortSummary",{"_33":76,"_35":36,"_37":38,"_39":77,"_41":78,"_43":79,"_45":80,"_47":81,"_49":82,"_51":83,"_53":84,"_55":56,"_57":58,"_59":85,"_61":62,"_63":64,"_65":86,"_67":68,"_69":70,"_71":68,"_72":73,"_74":73},6122055,"Council approves Summer Trees PCD changes and plat; narrow vote on PCD amendment allowing private schools and storage uses",1213,3269000,4482000,"/Search/View?dp=1&key=2696038-80729d3f471641183055f6b3851a767a&start=3269&end=4482","https://assets.pipeline.soar.com/2696038-80729d3f471641183055f6b3851a767a/thumbnail_3269000.jpg","/articles/6122055/Port-Orange/Volusia-County/Florida/Council-approves-Summer-Trees-PCD-changes-and-plat-narrow-vote-on-PCD-amendment-allowing-private-schools-and-storage-uses","https://secure.pipeline.soar.com/6122055-36f202400c0553d225f1e2307e557b2c/orig.mp4?Expires=1771094836&Signature=KfmxIFJtJR9UHsF5dayNULi25VcBWVdb0bLVzDgG0rwCTFThUwQYJIfiUDaCbLS4Mp~O9QqDE8kHvUGUcRrj0F9~xSMZbhKdyrzNTk0oq2UgcmiJlfs6HYaGyhUtOjorsvXtRTYeyPEflaBDzVT7dCAETzYTh~10P~DSBTHSNc92Flah7VcCvs2oHuxQHkidl3MgTxSMzk3pYQWpdE8YFc74FyLQO8E-ia59Z3LPi54PM1a~qxUJc2IpuVKlBjI5iFvfeT-PEnY-InutUUShOkrSDKmdJIoWbrp2-bmT63ofHj8vALgET9YsqJmCz~u6s2k0I4xsO-QJxVuqn5up1w__&Key-Pair-Id=KUT5TJCACFTXG","Port Orange council approved changes to the Summer Trees Planned Commercial Development (PCD) to expand allowed uses on several sites and approved a related plat subdividing the shopping center.

On first reading council approved Ordinance 2025‑11, a first amendment to the Summer Trees MDA that adds potential uses (private school, microbrewery/craft food and beverage and self‑/boat storage on specific sites) but pairs those additions with development standards intended to reduce visual and traffic impacts. The PCD amendment passed on a 3‑2 roll call.

Community development staff said the PCD amendment is tiered: sites A–D could host private schools and craft food/beverage uses, while sites C and D could accommodate self‑storage and boat storage subject to increased buffers, architectural treatments, interior garage doors and screening. Tim Bourbon (community development) told council the stormwater ponds and off‑site stormwater (Site E) are already in place and any eventual development would require full site‑plan review for transportation, stormwater and utility impacts.

Applicant counsel said the expanded list of permitted uses is intended to create marketable options for sites that may redevelop decades after their initial construction. He told council the approach gives the city criteria to control visual and traffic impacts and said the PCD language could codify specific limits if council wants to prevent particular adjacencies (for example, alcohol‑selling establishments close to schools).

The vote on Ordinance 2025‑11 was 3‑2: Councilmen Gephart and Green and Mayor Stilthner voted yes; Councilmen Foley and Grubbs voted no. During debate, council members asked how existing multi‑tenant buildings would be affected, whether a brewery could be next to a school, and whether self‑storage would be the most appropriate low‑impact user; staff noted Florida code already bars alcohol sales within 300 feet of a school or church, which constrains some future uses.

Separately the Summer Trees plat to subdivide the commercial property so Aldi and the multi‑tenant building would be on separate lots was approved 5‑0. Staff said the split is common practice that responds to tenants’ leasing and financing preferences; the plat requires a property‑owner association to maintain common areas and retention infrastructure.

Planning staff recommended approval of both items. Council directed staff that any redevelopment proposals for Sites C and D would return for full review for access, buffers and stormwater.","Council approved a PCD amendment that adds several commercial uses including private school and microbrewery with site‑specific safeguards; vote on the PCD amendment was 3‑2. Council later approved a plat subdivision for the Shops at Summer Trees, 5‑0.",{"_33":88,"_35":36,"_37":38,"_39":89,"_41":90,"_43":91,"_45":92,"_47":93,"_49":94,"_51":95,"_53":96,"_55":56,"_57":58,"_59":97,"_61":62,"_63":64,"_65":98,"_67":68,"_69":70,"_71":68,"_72":73,"_74":73},6122061,"Port Orange council approves Catfish Commons land-use, PCD and related incentive; developer outlines marina plans",764,2501000,3265000,"/Search/View?dp=1&key=2696038-80729d3f471641183055f6b3851a767a&start=2501&end=3265","https://assets.pipeline.soar.com/2696038-80729d3f471641183055f6b3851a767a/thumbnail_2501000.jpg","/articles/6122061/Port-Orange/Volusia-County/Florida/Port-Orange-council-approves-Catfish-Commons-land-use-PCD-and-related-incentive-developer-outlines-marina-plans","https://secure.pipeline.soar.com/6122061-2b85c533d94c8e54bb2abf792a6185d9/orig.mp4?Expires=1771094837&Signature=IrleCl6MB7BFafJV2nvKn2vZPnXRh2RWkQjnyV3D-rotvF85PElI5Kk3R9Lc6oVRDztEsZULE1gyXKGGEQnl-NDQadus0mm904dGmtIRjY331z87hblgCROg4bVFzEMROzvvT~V6zncoQlodEAwDR8U~lNy1ktPYt-CvkzuvroQfJqGg0NkBvkPpnB82yo8L~gKDC45fpS1HpN41xLQaJOnCZqRzDHivm5soe08phBsb4sXdHuOr9LwXbs1eAPTYMEHOQGWiHScZ0UyU55iUPUT2FofkM~3A2EjGOwvJgcrPKYuozLNbXp6prA2k0wVGoehkyyUqqw75WwVkqdjFUg__&Key-Pair-Id=KUT5TJCACFTXG","Port Orange city council approved two first-reading ordinances to change future land use and rezone the Catfish Commons site and recommended approval of a related economic incentive agreement for Commons 4075, LLC.

The actions clear the way for a planned mixed-use redevelopment of the Catfish Commons area that would allow retail on the first floor and up to eight residential units above, site-specific setbacks, angled on-street parking along Halifax Drive and a 12-slip marina. City planning staff recommended approval of the amendments and codified deviations for side-yard and rear-yard setbacks and a reduced landscape buffer to allow an “entertainment yard” on the waterfront.

Tim Berman, community development, described the two items on first reading as paired: a future land-use map amendment (ordinance 2025‑O9) to change about 1.2 acres from commercial to mixed-use center and a rezoning/restate of the Catfish Commons Planned Commercial Development (ordinance 2025‑10). He told council the PCD restatement would allow retaining and adding on to an existing building with a 4-foot side setback (5 feet if rebuilt), a 0-foot rear setback internal to the PCD, angled on‑street parking for better marina access, and a reduced front landscape buffer to expand an activity area along the waterfront.

Brandon Gabbard, developer and property owner, thanked council for support of the earlier economic incentive and said permitting for the marina is nearly complete. “We just, a week or two ago, we got approval,” he said, describing that the state required identification of a spoil site for dredging and that he expects a 21‑day notification period before finishing state permitting and moving to construction drawings.

Resident Robert Ryan Hagen urged clarification on how proposed on‑street parking would be allocated. He questioned whether public parking would become reserved for marina use and asked how residential units planned above commercial space would be served. Staff and the applicant said parking would be “common” and preserved as shared spaces, with some tandem spaces reserved for employees; the PCD language and subsequent site plan approvals would govern final parking layouts.

Council voted 5‑0 on first readings for ordinances 2025‑O9 and 2025‑O10. Earlier in the meeting the Port Orange Town Center Community Redevelopment Agency recommended approval of an economic incentive agreement with Commons 4075, LLC and authorized agency execution of the agreement; the CRA roll call recorded unanimous “yes” votes.

Planning staff and the applicant told council the PCD includes conditions — additional architectural treatments, interior garage doors rather than exterior, screening for boat storage, and buffer requirements — and that any future development on the affected lots would require full site‑plan review for transportation, stormwater and utilities. Council and the developer agreed that the project will return for additional approvals and site drawings as required.

The ordinances will return for second reading and final adoption according to the usual public hearing schedule.","Council approved two first-reading ordinances and ratified a redevelopment incentive for the Catfish Commons site; developer said marina permitting is near completion and the project includes mixed-use, on-street parking, and a 12-slip marina.","actionData","errors"]

Article not found

Port Orange council votes 3‑2 to continue fluoridating water while awaiting state action after lengthy public debate

Council approves Summer Trees PCD changes and plat; narrow vote on PCD amendment allowing private schools and storage uses

Port Orange council approves Catfish Commons land-use, PCD and related incentive; developer outlines marina plans