Daytona Beach Council approves Ocean Center monthly parking increase to $75

The Volusia County Council convened on May 6, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on proposed parking rate adjustments at the Ocean Center and Ocean Walk Shops.

The meeting began with Director Flanders presenting a request to increase the monthly parking rate from $60 to $75 for monthly parkers at the Ocean Center. This adjustment aims to address previous oversights in parking pricing models. The council unanimously approved this increase with a vote of 7-0.

The second part of the discussion involved a proposal from the Ocean Walk Shops to implement a discounted parking rate during the off-season, specifically from October 31 to March 1. The request suggested reducing the parking fee from the current $15 to $10, with an option for restaurants to offer $5 vouchers to customers who meet a minimum spending requirement. This initiative aims to attract more patrons to local restaurants during a traditionally slow period.

Council members expressed mixed feelings about the proposal. Some, like Councilman Kent, voiced concerns over the potential fiscal impact on the county, particularly the projected $48,000 reduction in parking revenue. Others, including Councilman Santiago, highlighted the importance of supporting local businesses but remained skeptical about the effectiveness of the proposed discount in changing consumer behavior.

Public comments included perspectives from local business representatives, emphasizing the need for support during off-peak seasons to ensure the survival of restaurants in the area. One speaker pointed out that without such measures, the local dining scene could suffer, especially during events that draw large crowds to the Ocean Center.

Ultimately, the council voted to deny the request for the off-season parking rate reduction, citing concerns over government intervention in private business operations and the need to maintain fiscal responsibility. The motion to deny was supported by several council members who argued that it is not the government's role to subsidize specific businesses.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by local businesses in Volusia County, particularly in balancing support for economic growth with fiscal prudence. The council's decisions reflect a commitment to maintaining revenue while navigating the complexities of local economic support.