County official updates council on industrial leads: "Cherry Blossom" plating project and potential 200‑job employer

Lou Paris, Volusia County economic development, briefed the council that county staff and business partners have been working closely with Deering Park and other local stakeholders and that Team Volusia will feature Ernie Cox at an upcoming quarterly breakfast on Nov. 21.

Paris raised a confidentially coded industrial prospect he called "Cherry Blossom," describing it as a metal‑plating activity that experienced prior issues involving water discharges. He said county staff have discussed two potential technical solutions with the company and that company representatives recently asked the county for a letter describing county support. Paris identified county staff working on the matter as Ben Bartlett and Michael Ulrich and said public works is engaged on technical reviews.

Separately, city staff reported progress on economic recruitment. Ryan (city staff) told the council staff are close to a potential deal with Ansertek, which he said could create about 200 jobs over the next two years if the company proceeds and locates in the city. Ryan also reported ongoing hiring in the city economic development office and that the city has filled a stormwater engineer position to support permitting and review.

No formal action or financial commitments were recorded at the meeting; Paris and staff described these items as active recruitment and technical review work that will continue with staff coordination and follow‑up.