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Commission approves first readings of budget amendment and pension ordinance; public raises transparency concerns
Summary
On first reading the commission approved Ordinance 2025-33 (fiscal-year budget amendments including FEMA and bond-funded water projects) and Ordinance 2025-34 (pension plan amendments recommended by the pension board). Public commenters pressed for budget transparency and detailed line-item explanations.
The Ormond Beach City Commission on Nov. 4 approved first readings of two ordinances: a budget amendment (Ordinance 2025-33) and a pension plan amendment (Ordinance 2025-34).
City Clerk read the legal title for Ordinance 2025-33, which amends the FY2024–25 budget across multiple funds, including the stormwater utility fund, capital improvements, water and wastewater funds and others. Finance Director Kelly McGuire said the amendments largely move carryforward project budgets from FY 2023–24 into the current year, account for roughly $6 million in emergency hurricane Milton projects and allocate just under $12 million for three water and sewer projects funded through bonds issued in October 2024.
Multiple members of the public urged clearer budget transparency. Jennifer Bright cited agenda materials and said the packet showed $33.6 million in increases tied to more than 30 resolutions and asked why those items were not visible to the public earlier. Finance Director McGuire explained that many items are carryforwards from prior-year capital projects or FEMA reimbursements and that budget timing requires moving funds between fiscal years for projects that span years.
After public comment and staff responses, the commission moved, seconded and approved Ordinance 2025-33 on first reading with all commissioners voting yes. The City Clerk then read Ordinance 2025-34, which amends sections of the general employees pension plan (benefit amounts, vesting and a benefit multiplier for accredited service). McGuire said the pension board unanimously recommended the change and that it aligns with a recently approved contract. The commission approved the first reading with unanimous support.
No final adoption votes were taken; both items were read by title and passed the first-reading stage. Staff said more detailed budget documentation is available in the city's packet and that staff would provide follow-up clarifications where requested.
