Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Volusia County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
3 issues in zoning
Ban on large-scale data centers
Council weighed a six-month moratorium versus an outright ban on data centers using 50 megawatts or more, after testimony about water drawdown, sinkhole risk, noise, and few permanent jobs. All seven members ultimately directed staff to draft a complete ban, with a freeze on applications in the meantime.
Backyard Chicken Regulations
Final approval of Ordinance 2026-05 updates zoning classifications and loosens rules so residents can keep backyard chickens.
Charter Review Commission amendments
Five proposed charter changes head toward the November ballot, including rotating the county chair and a conservation-lands registry requiring a 5-of-7 vote to sell protected land. Residents split on whether the registry is strong enough — some want the Alachua County voter-referendum model — and the council is now drafting a competing amendment requiring unanimous approval for any conservation land sale.