[{"_1":2,"_111":-5,"_112":-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",[32,75,87,99],{"_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",6062406,"mediaKeyId","3278595-bc145fae05c8824d20f981e552e1ea21","parentId",3278595,"title","Volusia committee approves technical floodplain ordinance edits, orders closed‑basin studies and adopts foundation standard for new builds","audioSeconds",2183,"startMs",2472000,"endMs",4655000,"viewUrl","/Search/View?dp=1&key=3278595-bc145fae05c8824d20f981e552e1ea21&start=2472&end=4655","thumbnailUrl","https://assets.pipeline.soar.com/3278595-bc145fae05c8824d20f981e552e1ea21/thumbnail_2472000.jpg","articleUrl","/articles/6062406/Volusia-County/Florida/Volusia-committee-approves-technical-floodplain-ordinance-edits-orders-closedbasin-studies-and-adopts-foundation-standard-for-new-builds","mediaUrl","https://secure.pipeline.soar.com/6062406-791dd342dd9764639589dfa8c9f92e77/orig.mp4?Expires=1773766378&Signature=nrst~rtvVH5HzjTh1qPSuEL4G9mwA~81LiRmdSZ~97bB~tw9wtQW~YAwNbDaVSaKKFmrdyVyESDIo8YfZihOimQZ6hR9NAJomzMvJHOZ7ahRYDdbyZkgFCrExq0wtrW6f2g3Ue4uCtXxjddF32nYYEgR~PNQWCuWxLx~qleUxAy2v-NWAKia0biEKdxeSqRB~QvQGHXS98w38P9BqFzNN~LfKXFVFZQhQPIzgughoOwCbhlmmzEmfwyTJpcshwe-qs2FUHcnQXImhkTqQOPXtDyt5NEFhD7QomSPr69FraRDEpAhKyUaw-ApRiesQEzPXcya3Jpz3WA0irEStroUjg__&Key-Pair-Id=KUT5TJCACFTXG","author","Volusia County, FL","date","2025-05-12T18:40:20Z","article","Samantha West, the county’s sustainability and resilience manager, presented a package of proposed changes to Division 7 (Flood Hazard Management) on May 7 and the Environmental and Natural Resources Advisory Committee took multiple actions.

What the committee approved: By voice vote the committee accepted a first batch of technical edits proposed by staff that included correcting typographical errors, aligning definitions with state Office of Floodplain Management guidance, updating the market‑value definition toward a cash‑value approach used to determine substantial damage/improvement, and adding language to require hazardous materials storage above base‑flood elevation for commercial properties as a proposed option. Staff said the final ordinance language must be coordinated with the Florida Department of Emergency Management (FDEM) before it is brought to the county council.

Closed‑basin studies required: The committee voted to require floodplain (basin) studies for closed basins where FEMA did not establish base‑flood elevations. Staff said most closed basins are small and the study is typically a modest engineering task; the studies will establish a base stage for large storm events and inform compensating storage decisions. The committee approved that requirement by recorded voice vote (motion carried; one opposing vote was noted during the roll call sequence).

Hazardous materials storage discussion, no action: Committee members debated a proposed regulation (item 4) that would prohibit outdoor storage of hazardous materials in the regulatory floodplain or require that hazardous materials be stored indoors above the base‑flood elevation. Staff explained the County’s Small Quantity Generator (SQG) program and existing DEP oversight for larger hazardous‑waste generators. Members raised concerns about impacts on small businesses, agricultural operations and retroactive enforcement. Jessica Gao proposed carve‑outs for consumer/agricultural products used in the ordinary course and for businesses with secondary containment; that motion was later withdrawn by the mover after extended discussion. No code change was adopted for a broad prohibition; staff will return with additional analysis and options, including amortization or compliance timeframes used by municipalities such as Port Orange.

Compensating storage criteria deferred: The committee considered proposed compensating‑storage limits (a 50% maximum of a parcel’s flood‑storage area and a 1.5:1 required compensation ratio for parcels larger than 1 acre), but members questioned the technical basis and agricultural impacts. A motion to defer or “skip” that subsection passed; staff will rework the proposal and include agricultural and technical analysis in future drafts.

Foundation/ construction requirement adopted: The committee adopted language to codify an existing county technical direction requiring stem‑wall, deep‑footing or pile foundations for new construction in the floodplain. The committee modified and approved the requirement so it applies to new construction and substantial improvements on lots 1 acre or smaller unless compensating storage is provided; applicants may seek waivers or demonstrate compensatory storage to avoid the requirement. Staff said the requirement had been implemented administratively since April 1 and this action will codify the policy in Division 7 and the building‑code chapter.

Next steps: Staff will draft formal ordinance language for the changes that passed and return them to the committee for review before county council hearings. Staff also will analyze hazardous‑materials options, evaluate compensating‑storage technical assumptions, and produce closed‑basin study guidance for applicants.","mediaType","Video","parentTitle","ENRAC Meeting - May 7, 2025","oneSentenceSummary","Samantha West, sustainability and resilience manager, presented proposed Division 7 changes on May 7; the committee approved technical edits, required closed‑basin studies, deferred compensating‑storage rules, and codified a stem‑wall/pile foundation standard for new construction on smaller lots unless compensatory storage is provided.","taxTitle","Volusia County, Florida","taxId",2878,"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},6062421,"Volusia staff warn Senate Bill 180 could void recent local stormwater rules if governor signs it",202,517000,719000,"/Search/View?dp=1&key=3278595-bc145fae05c8824d20f981e552e1ea21&start=517&end=719","https://assets.pipeline.soar.com/3278595-bc145fae05c8824d20f981e552e1ea21/thumbnail_517000.jpg","/articles/6062421/Volusia-County/Florida/Volusia-staff-warn-Senate-Bill-180-could-void-recent-local-stormwater-rules-if-governor-signs-it","https://secure.pipeline.soar.com/6062421-c1a532264b7224a49e471fdd36c1ccdc/orig.mp4?Expires=1773766378&Signature=Pg8d-qeiotbzkWvt1ULkb5-Vzr~gtPAro9Bkn68jsYewm9q1vBVnRZS657SDQgBJWsMeY5Yuawkfx4gs1TLNU2s4UgCnHxUlJz3tItq3-nIz3JpzyEWNTNO9tx6Hf6stn8DTaD~xz4cLPk6-PU4L~-Diy5A7hw1oVoxF0o3gKzVeYVj-hO0yLwXyjriZTE0w2xmRFhxsHuRAwglr8X6L2-QRhE7c5Lxt-4myI9disIZGN-OCt3IGPdfYcVPhsP4BRPyXhCj7i212nbQW-qnO9hL4dktoizbyzSuSf~obsouNkmjCHqwQoWuUq5l9PtSegiGXOX4XNYXgQiaFChHNsA__&Key-Pair-Id=KUT5TJCACFTXG","Clay Irvin, a staff member for Volusia County, told the Environmental and Natural Resources Advisory Committee on May 7 that a state bill known as Senate Bill 180 contains language that would prevent local governments from enacting land‑development regulations stricter than those in effect on Aug. 1, 2024, and would run through Oct. 1, 2027, if the governor signs it.

Why it matters: Committee members were told SB 180 could render local stormwater and floodplain rule changes that the county approved since Aug. 1, 2024, void. That would force staff and elected officials to rework locally adopted rules if the bill becomes law, potentially delaying implementation of resiliency measures intended to reduce flooding and property damage.

Irvin summarized the bill and its history for the committee, saying the new bill “resurrects the old Senate Bill 250” and that the enrolled language includes a retroactivity clause to Aug. 1, 2024. Paolo Soria, senior assistant county attorney, confirmed the enrolled bill had not yet been signed and that citizens could petition the governor for a veto. Irvin and other staff said the provision also contains a trigger that would extend restrictions for one year after any federally declared disaster that makes landfall within 100 miles of a county.

Committee attorneys and staff described the practical effect: work on local amendments, moratoria or more‑stringent local land‑development regulations adopted after Aug. 1, 2024, could be nullified if SB 180 is enacted as written. Staff noted the county could continue technical work and draft language but could not formally propose or enact measures that would contradict the bill while it remains effective.

Committee members asked procedural questions: whether the bill had been sent to the governor (staff said the governor has 14 days to act following the enrolled transmittal), which sponsors filed the bill, and how SB 180 compares to the earlier SB 250. Staff said SB 180 differs by using a 100‑mile radius trigger and the longer retroactivity window; SB 250 was narrowed after enactment in a subsequent special session and ultimately did not apply to Volusia County.

What the committee directed: members generally agreed to continue technical work on resilience measures rather than stop drafting. Staff said county and city lobbyists could advocate in Tallahassee but cautioned local lobbying may have limited near‑term effect while the bill is pending. Several committee members urged staff to document options that would remain available under the proposed state language and to prepare materials for elected officials.

What remains uncertain: Whether the governor will sign SB 180; if signed, when staff and counsel will interpret specific local code implications; and whether later legislative or special‑session action might narrow or repeal the provision. No formal county action to oppose or challenge the bill was taken at the meeting.

Ending: Staff recommended the committee proceed with technical work so that, if the bill is enacted or later narrowed, the county will be ready to move when local authority is restored.","Clay Irvin, a staff member for Volusia County, told the Environmental and Natural Resources Advisory Committee on May 7 that Senate Bill 180 contains retroactive language that could strip out local land‑development regulations adopted after Aug. 1, 2024, if the governor signs the bill.",{"_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},6062412,"NRAC to take wetlands protections and chapter 50 review next, after floodplain work",605,1641000,2246000,"/Search/View?dp=1&key=3278595-bc145fae05c8824d20f981e552e1ea21&start=1641&end=2246","https://assets.pipeline.soar.com/3278595-bc145fae05c8824d20f981e552e1ea21/thumbnail_1641000.jpg","/articles/6062412/Volusia-County/Florida/NRAC-to-take-wetlands-protections-and-chapter-50-review-next-after-floodplain-work","https://secure.pipeline.soar.com/6062412-cb9f5c2d3f4b02f7251b3562ae0a6b2f/orig.mp4?Expires=1773766378&Signature=TxH0Zimiw6pomLL-38vSvqzbNqFdN6cd~FgihQLi0uER50TgztVtgZKP-DDKXUnqTkPgUIkEAx97lkv5QEFgJaLPVYH-pluaLv-8tM6uC40MizE-Nw3UZyeO286KG3BX5~tyvb0sWUViZ0FT964i6C1FCfxhTSiu3ceoA6PNhK1V3wuOaznYMsHjnkoLd8O7Ji8io5otIn1rm5Mp1obwpQvRMX-FGaQsZiQCAR8rp3kObROOJL3N8twin5YF5Fz9B36YeX7S2sXHuQ2CUJ6OKDI6~-cm-ciwzaZMCa3pGT~M6PjBcoGZRhnJRbcMihywyhw0pVFeQYEZwwXvCprYhA__&Key-Pair-Id=KUT5TJCACFTXG","Committee members voted on May 7 to bring wetlands review forward on the Environmental and Natural Resources Advisory Committee’s work plan immediately after finalizing floodplain hazards.

Why it matters: County council members asked staff to analyze stronger avoidance and minimization measures for wetlands, to consider limits on wetland impacts in residential subdivisions and to re‑examine the county’s acceptance of mitigation banks. Staff told the committee that state law preempts local decisions about allowable mitigation types, so outright bans on mitigation banks may not be enforceable; the council nevertheless directed staff to prioritize wetlands in the committee’s next meeting.

What staff will do: Ginger and other staff said they will examine the council’s direction and prepare code and chapter comparisons (chapter 50 and chapter 72 are in scope). The committee agreed to review updated language and present recommendations to council; staff suggested using the roundtable of elected officials and a flooding subcommittee to get city input on stormwater and related wetland changes.

Discussion highlights: Committee members noted prior wetlands work in 2023 and emphasized residential avoidance and minimization, tree preservation and limits on fill. Staff recommended evaluating prior LID projects and leveraging LID standards to reduce wetland impacts. No formal code changes were adopted at this meeting; the committee set wetlands as the next major agenda item after concluding floodplain hazards.

Ending: Staff will return with chapter comparisons and a roadmap for committee review at the next scheduled meeting.","Following direction from the county council, the committee voted to move wetlands higher on its work plan. Staff said council asked them to examine Chapter 50 and Chapter 72 provisions for further wetland avoidance and minimization, especially for residential subdivisions, and to return with draft recommendations in June.",{"_33":100,"_35":36,"_37":38,"_39":101,"_41":102,"_43":103,"_45":104,"_47":105,"_49":106,"_51":107,"_53":108,"_55":56,"_57":58,"_59":109,"_61":62,"_63":64,"_65":110,"_67":68,"_69":70,"_71":68,"_72":73,"_74":73},6062416,"Volusia County adopts voluntary Low‑Impact Development comp‑plan amendment; effective June 7",51,1817000,1868000,"/Search/View?dp=1&key=3278595-bc145fae05c8824d20f981e552e1ea21&start=1817&end=1868","https://assets.pipeline.soar.com/3278595-bc145fae05c8824d20f981e552e1ea21/thumbnail_1817000.jpg","/articles/6062416/Volusia-County/Florida/Volusia-County-adopts-voluntary-LowImpact-Development-compplan-amendment-effective-June-7","https://secure.pipeline.soar.com/6062416-d46a9b6cb6d21bc656fe51e8d484c053/orig.mp4?Expires=1773766378&Signature=OwFF6t1LKbm1AswNPJ9tgz~kvuLbs5fXw5zFEguaHtV-zr2ayXSIn2yyxI~pVqxnd-g4Pq71al8Pm0olG9LF6bgm365vXKrMdWP-5PO3LRAfO7wX62upN~gfvary28CUgtD~KgvGJR3F~00PqRAG9eksWDArU9hiw4xgpKQIG3~HHubKLVieJvFaCkstghbU-B0uUb5ppAtfiRd-wy3DlLqDtitHdpXkutR0GKDpvS9daD4tS9iyrlHyDaRF-RrMssz8ngC0OoQ~~kPI7t3OlKpBA3Nlb8POlad3QGjJcyIOMLzFgddaU735lQaJXl5P-Ob-fLFsbYfdaxRIzQghaw__&Key-Pair-Id=KUT5TJCACFTXG","Ginger, Growth and Resource Management Director, briefed the Environmental and Natural Resources Advisory Committee on May 7 that the county council adopted a comprehensive‑plan amendment enabling a Low‑Impact Development (LID) program and left the program voluntary.

Why it matters: The LID amendment removes a regulatory barrier to voluntary adoption of site‑design and stormwater best practices intended to reduce runoff and preserve on‑site natural features. Staff said the effective date for the comp‑plan amendment is June 7 and that the county will pursue outreach and demonstration projects to show how LID measures perform.

What happened at the council: Committee staff summarized yesterday’s council action: the council voted to adopt the LID comp‑plan amendment as voluntary. Members of the council had debated hybrid versus mandatory approaches; staff said that if few applicants use the voluntary program, council members indicated willingness to revisit mandatory options. The committee heard that the LID adoption is the last step needed before the county can begin offering incentives and programmatic support.

Next steps: Staff told the committee they will monitor uptake and report back; they also said the county plans to evaluate 2–3 early LID projects for lessons learned and to present draft code language and incentives to the cities through an elected officials roundtable and a flooding subcommittee. Committee members said they preferred continuing the current technical work rather than pausing while the state bill (SB 180) is pending.

Ending: The committee took no independent formal action on LID at this meeting beyond noting the council adoption and asking staff to continue outreach and evaluation.","The committee was told the county council adopted a comp‑plan amendment to enable a voluntary Low‑Impact Development (LID) program. The amendment is effective June 7; the council left the program voluntary but said it could revisit mandatory elements if uptake is low.","actionData","errors"]

Article not found

Volusia committee approves technical floodplain ordinance edits, orders closed‑basin studies and adopts foundation standard for new builds

Volusia staff warn Senate Bill 180 could void recent local stormwater rules if governor signs it

NRAC to take wetlands protections and chapter 50 review next, after floodplain work

Volusia County adopts voluntary Low‑Impact Development comp‑plan amendment; effective June 7