Daytona Beach Shores backs Volusia County amendments to SB 180, declines special-session push

The Daytona Beach Shores City Commission voted unanimously to send a letter supporting Volusia County's proposed amendments to Senate Bill 180, a state measure commissioners said contained vague language that could weaken local home-rule authority.

Mayor Miller framed the item by saying SB 180 "was a good bill probably till it got to the end" and expressed concern about language that could be measured as "burdensome." Resident Mike Poniatowski, speaking during public comment, urged the commission to do more than support amendments: "It usurps home rule...It usurps private property rights," he said, and recommended the city consider joining a multi-jurisdiction lawsuit challenging the law.

Commissioners amended the motion to authorize the mayor to sign a letter of support for the county's amendments, then voted 5-0 in favor. The commission did not approve a separate motion to request a special legislative session; the mayor said there was no motion on that item and it "died for lack of participation."

City Attorney advised caution about a confrontational posture toward the legislature, noting possible practical repercussions such as reduced grant opportunities, though he said there is no legal barrier to supporting amendments or filing suit. Commissioners agreed to pursue diplomacy and direct outreach to legislators and to place further discussion on the Sept. 8 agenda if members want to consider joining a suit or requesting special session action.

The commission's approval covers only a letter supporting the county's proposed amendments and authorization for the mayor to sign that letter; no litigation decision was taken at the meeting.