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Local Realtors and residents urge balance as commission weighs tree protections and sign rules
Summary
Speakers at public comment praised tree preservation goals but warned proposed landscape and sign rules could impose heavy costs on homeowners and small businesses; the Board of Realtors offered to help with outreach and education.
Asha Musgrove, CEO of the New Smyrna Beach Board of Realtors, told the commission the group supports the city27s goals for "beauty, sustainability, and livability" but urged officials to balance canopy protection with private property rights and small-business impacts. "We are ready to assist in educating our members and their clients about the benefits and responsibilities that may come with any of the changes," Musgrove said.
Several residents echoed that concern. Almer Wilson, who lives on Donlon Drive, said he supports street trees but called some proposed rules "a solution looking for a problem," noting he found only one improper single-family tree removal in the last five years. Jennifer Peace, director of operations for Southeast Volusia Habitat for Humanity, asked the commission to consider hardship if nonprofits are required to remove long-standing roadside signage at redevelopment sites. The mayor closed public participation and invited staff to report on the agenda items.
