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Volusia County economic development reports highlight Innovation Challenge, outreach and permit trends
Summary
County and regional economic development representatives reported a record 55 applicants for the Evolution Innovation Challenge, outreach at SpaceCom and other trade events, and monthly permitting figures including 33 single-family certificates of occupancy issued in January.
Lou Paris of Volusia County Economic Development told the board the Evolution Innovation Challenge drew a record 55 applicants; semifinals are scheduled in the coming weeks and the final will be held March 25 at the Ocean Center. He highlighted an Embry-Riddle competitor who has pivoted his business and is now seeking a 15,000–18,000 square-foot building expected to generate about 20 jobs.
Monty Pletcher of Team Volusia Economic Development Corporation reported on recent outreach: attendance at SpaceCom, meetings with a visiting UK delegation of about 30 companies and four universities, engagement with FPL and national site selectors, and upcoming events including the Florida Venture Forum and Team Volusia's annual dinner on March 12.
Kristen Weiss of the Daytona Regional Chamber previewed Volusia Days in Tallahassee and noted upcoming staff changes: a key staff member, David, has a last day on March 25 and she expects to make an offer for his replacement soon.
Jeff, the city's economic and strategic opportunities staff member, summarized permitting activity: "We're still at a steady kind of clip, somewhere between 10 to 15 projects a month coming in the door for their initial review," and the CO report showed 33 single-family COs issued in January.
Procedural note: Chair Bob Brand called for a motion to approve the minutes; the motion was moved, seconded and approved by voice vote.
Why it matters: The Innovation Challenge and trade outreach are mechanisms the region uses to retain and attract businesses and create jobs; permit and CO trends provide a near-term indicator of development activity.
The board set no formal new policy during this portion of the meeting; members asked staff to continue collecting trend data and to bring back additional analysis when available.
