Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Space Seating topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Daytona Beach commission votes 6–0 to try bench dividers after debate over benches used for sleeping
Summary
After public comment and debate about benches that have been used for sleeping, the commission rescinded a removal motion and approved a trial to install dividers on downtown benches to prevent lying across them; the motion passed 6–0.
The Daytona Beach Community Redevelopment Agency voted 6–0 on June 3 to install dividers on several downtown benches as a trial measure to prevent benches from being used for sleeping.
The discussion followed a motion to remove particular benches that some businesses and residents said were being occupied by people sleeping or loitering. Public commenters—including residents who said benches provide necessary seating for older and disabled people—urged the commission not to penalize citizens. "You're penalizing citizens because of the homeless," one commenter said.
Commissioner May moved to trial bench dividers; Commissioner Cantu seconded. The commission rescinded an earlier motion to remove benches and agreed to try dividers as a compromise, directing staff to explore installing physical dividers on existing benches rather than removing seating completely. Chief Young suggested dividing fixtures already used on some benches to prevent lying while preserving seating.
The motion passed unanimously, 6–0. Staff will return with implementation details and the item may be revisited after the trial period or after additional consultation with downtown business owners and residents.
