The Volusia County Planning and Land Development Regulation Commission unanimously approved Case V-26-014, a variance to separate a nonconforming lot in General Commercial B-4 zoning in DeLand.

Staff presented the application and recommended approval, saying the request met at least three of the five variance criteria. The presenter (recorded as “Mister Chikula”) described the subject property as a roughly 14,000-square-foot lot with a roughly 1,800-square-foot principal structure (circa 1965) and an approximately 120-square-foot accessory shed. Staff also noted an active code-enforcement matter stemming from unpermitted modifications after the property was converted to a funeral home in 2024; environmental permitting reported no objection.

Applicant Van Johnson, whose address was given for the record, told commissioners he had no substantive additions to the staff report and thanked staff for their assistance. "I believe that the staff has done an excellent job in accommodating our request," Johnson said, and added the process had taken "over a year." Commissioner Costa asked about the timeline; Johnson said the delay reflected prior land-regulation work that was not completed before purchase.

Member Shelley moved to approve Case V-26-014 "subject to any staff conditions" (staff noted one condition); Member Sixma seconded. With no public speakers or additional discussion, commissioners voted "aye" and the motion carried unanimously. Member Arison was recorded as absent during roll call.

Because rezonings are quasi-judicial matters, counsel reminded the public that decisions by this body on rezonings are recommendations to the County Council and do not constitute a final hearing; the County Council public hearing can accept new evidence and will make the final determination.

Next steps: the PLDRC action will be forwarded to the Volusia County Council as the recommending body; any County Council scheduling or additional requirements were not specified in the record.