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CITY MANAGER’S UPDATE
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HALIFAX HISTORICAL MUSEUM PRESERVES DAYTONA BEACH’S PAST FOR NEARLY 80 YEARS
The city’s sesquicentennial business milestone series continues with the Halifax Historical Museum, a longtime community resource dedicated to preserving the history of Daytona Beach and the Halifax area for nearly 80 years. Operated by the Halifax Historical Society and chartered in 1949, the museum’s origins date to 1933, when residents began collecting photographs, documents and stories from the city’s early days. In 1986, the museum moved to its permanent home in the former Merchants Bank building at 252 S. Beach St. Built in 1910, the Neoclassical-style structure remains one of downtown’s most recognizable landmarks. Inside, visitors can explore artifacts and displays highlighting the people, places and events that shaped the Halifax area, from early tourism and beach culture to motorsports and local industry. The museum also hosts rotating exhibits celebrating the area’s cultural and creative heritage. The current exhibit, “Brush Strokes & Ballpoints: Celebrating Local Authors & Artists,” features writers and artists who have
captured Daytona’s spirit. Upcoming exhibits will explore the city’s business history and musical legacy. Programs such as Teller Talk Tuesdays, held on the first Tuesday of each month, along with art walks, book signings and community events, offer opportunities for public engagement. Kristine Franklin, executive director, brings more than 25 years of experience in libraries, grant writing and nonprofit leadership. Under her leadership, the museum continues to grow as a cultural and educational resource. Through its exhibits, archives and public programs, the Halifax Historical Museum continues its mission of preserving Daytona Beach’s history for future generations. It was recognized as part of the city’s sesquicentennial celebration for its longstanding role in documenting local history. The museum is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is $10 per person with children under 12 free.
City of Daytona Beach www.DaytonaBeach.gov 301 S. Ridgewood Ave., Daytona Beach
After three years of legislative efforts, the Officer Jason Raynor Act has passed both the Florida Senate and House and now awaits Gov. Ron DeSantis’ signature. The measure requires a sentence of life in prison without parole for defendants convicted of manslaughter in the death of a law enforcement officer. It also expands the definition of protected officers to include correctional officers, probation officers and auxiliary officers. LEGISLATION NAMED FOR FALLEN DAYTONA BEACH POLICE OFFICER AWAITS FINAL APPROVAL
Senate Bill 156 was sponsored by Sen. Tom Leek, who originally introduced the legislation in 2024. The bill is named for Daytona Beach Police Officer Jason Raynor, who was shot by Othal Wallace and died from his injuries on Aug. 17, 2021. Prosecutors sought a first-degree murder conviction, but a jury found Wallace guilty of the lesser charge of manslaughter, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison.
CITY AUDITOR’S FRAUD, WASTE AND ABUSE HOTLINE OFFERS REPORTING OPTION The City of Daytona Beach has launched a Fraud, Waste and Abuse Hotline to provide the public with a dedicated way to report concerns about the misuse of city funds, property or other public resources. The hotline is administered by the City Auditor’s Office, an independent function separate from city administration, and is part of an effort to strengthen transparency and accountability.
What details should be provided? Report should include each of the following details, if known: • WHAT (a description of the incident, fraudulent activity or abuse) • WHO was involved (name(s) of city employee) • WHEN it occurred (specific dates and times) • WHERE (location(s) where the activities took place) • WHY (gain to violator) • HOW (what scheme was used) Supporting documentation may also be included through the online form or by email. Reports that are too vague or unsupported may be closed without further action.
How to Submit a Report
• Call: (386) 200-1343 • Email: DaytonaFraudHotline@proton.me • Online: Submit through an online form found at tinyurl.com/bdfznhz8. For more information about the hotline, visit www.DaytonaBeach.gov/DaytonaFraudHotline.
IN THE WORKS
BOARDWALK ACCESS STAIRS AND RAMP REPAIRS Project Status: Under Construction Project Cost: $86,264 (Engineering) | $1,451,378 (Construction)
Work on the Boardwalk beach access stairs and ramp repairs project is progressing, with construction moving from north to south along the beachfront. The project includes the replacement of beach access infrastructure from the boardwalk to the shoreline, featuring four parallel ramps and 14 sets of stairs, along with approximately 110 linear feet of seawall replacement at Breakers Park. To date, three stairways have been completed. Project completion is anticipated in spring 2026.
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
SICKLER PARK Project Status: 100% Complete
Restoration work at Sickler Park, located beneath the Seabreeze Bridge, has been completed. The project included reconstruction of the park’s 102-foot concrete seat wall, along with site improvements such as new grading, sod and erosion control measures. Crews also installed new structural supports and a handrail along the seawall to enhance safety and accessibility. Repairs were completed to five previously undermined parking spaces, restoring full use of the area. Sickler Park has reopened to the public.
PROJECT COMPLETE
CYPRESS PLAYGROUND UPGRADES Project Status: Under Construction Project Cost: $419,028
The city has completed upgrades to the Midtown Recreation Complex Playground at Cypress Park, 981 George W. Engram Blvd. The project was supported by a $375,028 grant from the Racing and Recreational Facilities District, with a total project cost of $419,028 approved by the City Commission through Resolution 2025-100. Improvements include new playground equipment designed for children ages 2 to 12 and outdoor fitness equipment, including a decline bench, leg lift and flex wheel. Additional enhancements include drainage improvements, ribbon curbing and colorful pour-in-place surfacing, creating a smooth and safe play area. As part of the final phase, city crews installed an Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant sidewalk, improving access to the playground.
PROJECT COMPLETE
City of Daytona Beach | www.DaytonaBeach.gov | 301 S. Ridgewood Ave., Daytona Beach
ON THE move WITH PARKS & RECREATION
COMMUNITY YARD SALES Community yard sales will be held from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. April 11, May 9, Sept. 12, Oct. 10, Nov. 14 and Dec. 12 at Schnebly Recreation Center, 1101 N. Atlantic Ave. The events provide residents an opportunity to shop for unique items, household goods and collectibles while supporting local sellers. Vendor spaces are available for those interested in participating. Vendors may sell gently used household items, clothing, toys, books, décor and other secondhand goods. Registration closes at 4 p.m. the Friday before each sale.
SWIM LESSONS AND LEAGUE Swim lessons and league opportunities will be offered at Cypress Aquatic Center, 981 George W. Engram Blvd., for $30 per participant. Programs will take place April 6–29 on Mondays and Wednesdays, with Level 1 and Level 2 lessons for ages 6–10 at 4:30 p.m., followed by swim league from 5 to 5:30 p.m. for ages 7–15. Additional lessons will be held April 7–30 on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with Level 1 and Level 2 for ages 6–10 at 4:30 p.m., teen lessons for ages 11–14 at 5 p.m. and adult lessons for ages 15 and older at 5:30 p.m.
Vendors interested in the April yard sale can register at DaytonaBeach.gov/Activities.
Registration details are available at DaytonaBeach.gov/Activities.
BASEBALL & TBALL REGISTRATION EXTENDED Registration has been extended for the 2026 Youth Baseball and T-Ball programs, sponsored by AdventHealth. Designed to introduce young athletes to the fundamentals of the game, the programs emphasize teamwork, sportsmanship and fun in a supportive environment. Families are encouraged to visit DaytonaBeach.gov/Activities for complete program details, schedules and online registration.
City of Daytona Beach www.DaytonaBeach.gov 301 S. Ridgewood Ave., Daytona Beach
PROGRAMS & EVENTS facility
SUMMER CAMP PROGRAM Registration is now open for the city’s Summer Camp Program for youth ages 5–14. Camps will be held at multiple locations throughout Daytona Beach and offer a safe, engaging environment during the summer. Activities include breakfast and lunch, weekly swim sessions, weekly field trips, indoor and outdoor games, sports and arts & crafts. Pricing and registration details are available at DaytonaBeach.gov/Activities. The program is sponsored by AdventHealth. GIRLS FLAG FOOTBALL Registration is also open for the Girls Flag Football League for ages 9–14. Participants will learn football fundamentals, build teamwork skills and compete in a supportive environment. All clinics, drafts, practices and games will take place at Derbyshire Complex, 849 Derbyshire Road. Registration is open through April 30. Clinics will be held May 4 and May 6, followed by the draft on May 11. Practices begin May 12, and the season runs May 20 through June 20.
Additional details are available at DaytonaBeach.gov/Activities.
EASTER BEACH RUN Join us for this annual tradition that brings runners of all ages and skill levels to the shoreline for a fun, scenic race on the beach. Whether you’re sprinting for the win or enjoying a casual jog, the stunning ocean views make this event one-of-a-kind. Registration is $35 and $20 for ages 50 and older. Take advantage of our Spring Break discount, use code SPRING26 at checkout to receive 15% off. For details on registration and race times, visit https://bit.ly/3SjnSPh. Don’t Miss out!
BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP SUCCESS The city’s youth basketball season recently concluded with championship victories across all age divisions. The Bucs won the 6–8 division title, the Gators captured the 9–10 division championship, the Buckeyes secured the 11–13 division title and the Thunders won the 14–16 division championship.
To replay the championship livestream, visit https://tinyurl.com/3nxp6jjr.
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EASTER BEACH RUN Join us for this annual tradition that brings runners of all ages and skill levels to the shoreline for a fun, scenic race on the beach. Whether you’re sprinting for the win or enjoying a casual jog, the stunning ocean views make this event one-of- a-kind. Registration is $35, or $20 for ages 50 and older. Take advantage of our Spring Break discount, use code SPRING26 at checkout to receive 15% off. Hurry, this offer expires March 23! For details on registration and race times, visit: DaytonaBeach.gov/EasterBeachRun. Thank you to our sponsors Paul Culver Inc., AIB Roofing and Construction, LLC., AdventHealth, Daytona Lagoon, Florida Healthcare Plans, Daytona Toyota, Brown and Brown, Family Health Source and Foundations to Healing.
FREE TO ATTEND MIDTOWN CONCERT SERIES March 28, April 25, May 30 and June 27 at 6:30 p.m. Daisy Stocking Park 555 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd. REGISTRATION OPEN EASTER BEACH RUN Saturday, April 4 Oceanfront Bandshell 70 Boardwalk DaytonaBeach.gov/EasterBeachRun
FREE TO ATTEND CRAB & SEAFOOD FESTIVAL Saturday, April 25 at 11 a.m. Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd. DaytonaBeach.gov/SeafoodFestival DAYTONA SPRING TURKEY RUN March 27-29 Daytona International Speedway 1801 W. ISB. www.TurkeyRun.com
This event is presented by Zone 6 Commissioner Paula R. Reed & Divine Designs and is sponsored by A.I.B. Roofing and Construction LLC.
COMMUNITY SHRED DAY Saturday, April 18 9 a.m. to noon Mainland High School’s gym parking lot, 1255 W. ISB.
COMMUNITY YARD SALE Saturday, April 11 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Schnebly Rec Center 1101 N. Atlantic Ave.
Hosted by Zone 6 City Commissioner Paula R. Reed and the Daytona Beach Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
City of Daytona Beach | www.DaytonaBeach.gov | 301 S. Ridgewood Ave., Daytona Beach
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