Sheriff's budget

Questioned the sheriff's three helicopters and beach patrol costs, calling it 'political theater.'

A retired police-defense attorney praised Brower's rollback push and blasted the sheriff's 30% budget growth and $40M new complex.

Thanked the six members who protected the sheriff's budget, describing how DeLeon Springs went from lawless to safe under Chitwood.

The deputies' union president, speaking for 300 members, opposed rollback — 'if we cut Echo, parks, anything, somebody throws an egg' — and thanked the six members who backed the sheriff.

Delivered a pointed rebuke of Chair Brower, defending his budget, citing his tax bill increase of $42.65, and accusing Brower of political motives and defunding intent.

A 37-year VSO deputy warned rollback would jeopardize training, technology, and the county's low crime rate.

Criticized Sheriff Chitwood's 'bully tactics' against the county chair and described his own federal litigation against the sheriff.

Former Volusia sheriff urged approval of the current sheriff's budget, noting equipment and state mandates are largely outside the sheriff's control.