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CITY MANAGER’S UPDATE
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PRESERVING AN ICONIC LANDMARK: THE ONGOING STORY OF THE DAYTONA BEACH PIER Few landmarks are as closely tied to Daytona Beach’s identity as the Daytona Beach Pier. Stretching into the Atlantic Ocean at the eastern end of Main Street, the pier has served as a fishing destination, a community landmark and a symbol of Daytona Beach for more than a century. For generations of residents and visitors, memories of the city are often connected to a walk along the pier, a sunrise over the ocean, a day of fishing or a family photo with one of Daytona Beach’s most recognizable landmarks in the background. The history of the Daytona Beach Pier dates back to the late 1800s, when the original Keating Pier was constructed at the end of Main Street. Built of palm logs and extending approximately 600 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, it quickly became a focal point for residents and visitors alike. That original structure was destroyed by fire in 1920. A new chapter began in 1924 when businessman Jeter McMillan purchased the remains of the property and constructed a new pier and casino complex. The new Pier Casino officially opened in June 1925 and featured a 1,000-foot-long pier and an elegant ballroom that hosted dances, weddings and community celebrations.
Over the decades, the pier has survived hurricanes, relentless ocean surf and changing ownership. While many coastal landmarks have disappeared, the Daytona Beach Pier has remained a defining feature of the city’s oceanfront. Maintaining a structure exposed to the Atlantic Ocean 365 days a year is no small task. Unlike most city facilities, the Daytona Beach Pier faces constant exposure to saltwater, ocean currents, high winds, storm surge, humidity and intense sunlight. These environmental conditions accelerate wear and tear and require ongoing inspections, repairs and preventative maintenance to ensure the pier remains safe and accessible for residents and visitors. Over the past several years, the city has invested more than $3.1 million in repairs, rehabilitation and storm recovery efforts to preserve the pier and extend its lifespan. As Daytona Beach celebrates 150 years of history, the pier remains a physical connection to the generations who helped build this community. The Daytona Beach Pier has stood through more than a century of change, weathered storms both literal and figurative and remained a symbol of our city’s resilience. Through continued maintenance, the city is committed to ensuring this beloved landmark remains part of Daytona Beach’s story for generations to come.
City of Daytona Beach www.DaytonaBeach.gov 301 S. Ridgewood Ave., Daytona Beach
A message to the future: SESQUICENTENNIAL TIME CAPSULE CEREMONY
When: Saturday, July 18, 11 a.m. Where: Fire Station No. 1 Headquarters, 420 S. Ridgewood Ave., Daytona Beach, in the Community Room Why: To commemorate Daytona Beach’s 150th anniversary and preserve a snapshot of community life in 2026 for future generations. The public is encouraged to attend the ceremony and join the city in marking this historic milestone. The City of Daytona Beach invites residents and local historians to participate in a special ceremony at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 18, at Fire Station No. 1 Headquarters, where a time capsule commemorating the city’s 150th anniversary will be secured for future generations. Fire Station No. 1 is located at 420 S. Ridgewood Ave. in Daytona Beach. As part of Daytona Beach’s yearlong sesquicentennial celebration, the time capsule will be filled with contemporary items that capture life in Daytona Beach in 2026. Once sealed, the capsule will remain unopened for 100 years, with plans to reopen it July 18, 2126. Attendees of the ceremony will have the opportunity to write a personal message to future generations. These messages will be placed inside the time capsule, giving community members a chance to share their perspectives with those who will open it in July 2126.
For more information about Daytona Beach’s sesquicentennial celebration, visit DB150.com.
WORST EX EVER - DAYTONA BEACH STORY A shocking true-crime story with deep Daytona Beach roots is now featured in the second season of Netflix’s Worst Ex Ever, which chronicles relationships gone horribly wrong. The episode titled “Ride or Die” recounts the harrowing 2006 kidnapping of Karen Kummerer by former boyfriend Scott Freeman, a case that sparked a multi-state manhunt involving local law enforcement and the FBI. Told through Kummerer’s firsthand account, the 52-minute episode highlights her courage and the efforts that ultimately led to her rescue. Daytona Beach Police Chief Jakari Young also talks about the case during the episode.
IN THE WORKS
HALIFAX HARBOR DOCK CONSTRUCTION Construction continues to progress on the three-slip covered boat dock at Halifax Harbor. Roof sheathing is expected to begin by the end of the week. Once the roof structure is finished, light fixtures will be installed, followed by concrete work. The project is entering its final stages and is expected to move quickly toward completion. CITY ISLAND SEAWALL Construction is progressing near the Volusia County library. The existing seawall cap has been removed, sheet pile installation is approximately 90% complete, and stormwater outfall improvements are nearing completion. Construction of the seawall cap and overlooks is expected to begin soon. RIVERFRONT ESPLANADE & MANATEE ISLAND DOCK IMPROVEMENTS Progress continues on dock repairs at Riverfront Esplanade and Manatee Island following damage from Hurricane Milton. At Riverfront Esplanade, reconstruction of the day docks north of the International Speedway Boulevard bridge is in its final stages. New dock support structures have been installed, pile-driving operations are complete, and crews are finishing electrical upgrades and lighting installation. At Manatee Island, repairs to the floating docks on the east side of the island are also nearing completion. Crews have replaced damaged components, installed a new gangway connection to the boardwalk and completed pile installation. WATER METER REPLACEMENT PROGRAM The city’s multi-year project to replace more than 13,000 residential water meters is slated to wrap up in August. To date, VEPO Metering, the contractor hired by the city, has replaced 11,400 meters. The new meters feature advanced technology that provides more precise readings and detailed consumption data. Because older meters often underreported usage, some customers may see an increase in their water bill once their meter is replaced. This does not mean water rates have changed, but reflects a more accurate measurement of actual water use.
IN PROGRESS
IN PROGRESS
IN PROGRESS
For more information and a list of frequently asked questions, visit DaytonaBeach.gov/MeterReplacement .
NEARING COMPLETION
DAYTONA BEACH Inside
PARKS & RECREATION EMPLOYEE RECEIVES AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION HEART SAVER HERO AWARD Don Williams, a 23-year employee of the Parks & Recreation Department, has been recognized with the American Heart Association’s Heartsaver Hero Award for using his CPR training to help save someone’s life. Through the city’s safety program, Don completes CPR certification training every two years to keep his lifesaving skills current. That training proved invaluable during a recent softball tournament in Sebastian, Florida. During the tournament, Rodney Burnett, a member of the opposing team and an acquaintance of Don’s, began telling others that he was not feeling well. Don, who was nearby, advised him to sit down and rest. A few minutes later, as Don was walking away, he heard Rodney’s wife call out for help.
Don immediately rushed back and found Rodney seated on the ground. Moments later, Rodney’s eyes rolled back, and he lost consciousness. Don quickly checked for a pulse but found none. Recognizing the signs of cardiac arrest, he immediately began performing CPR. Thanks to his quick response, calm demeanor and CPR training, Don was able to revive Rodney before emergency responders arrived. Don’s actions demonstrate the importance of CPR training and preparedness, as well as the value of the city’s commitment to employee safety education. Congratulations to Don on this well-deserved recognition and for making a lifesaving difference when every second counted!
EARLY MORNINGS. LONG DAYS. BIG GOALS. Daytona Beach Police Explorers Lieutenant Jon’Nessa Smith and Sergeant Alex Orrender graduated last week from the Central Florida Law Enforcement Explorer Academy (CFLEEA), Class #23, after successfully completing the academy’s intensive two-week summer training program.
Designed for young people ages 14 to 20 who are interested in pursuing careers in law enforcement, the academy provides a challenging, boot camp-style experience that combines physical fitness, leadership development, tactical training, criminal law education and scenario-based exercises. Daytona Beach’s cadets began their days at 4 a.m. to travel to Seminole State College. Throughout the program, cadets progressed through multiple phases of training, building skills in law enforcement fundamentals, advanced tactical operations, report writing, crisis negotiations and leadership. The academy is supported by numerous law enforcement agencies across Central Florida and serves as a valuable opportunity for future public safety professionals. Congratulations, Alex and Jon’Nessa and the entire Class of 2026. Your journeys are just beginning.
DAYTONA BEACH DELIVERS BIG FOR UFL PLAYOFF GAME
KIM FLAHERTY PROMOTED TO DEPUTY CODE OFFICIAL Mark Boice, the city’s Chief Building Official, has promoted Kim Flaherty to the position of Deputy Code Official.
When the United Football League (UFL) needed a venue for its playoff matchup between the Orlando Storm and the DC Defenders, the City of Daytona Beach answered the call and delivered a first-class experience on a remarkably short timeline. Employees from multiple city departments collaborated closely with UFL officials, production crews and Orlando Storm representatives to ensure every aspect of the event was ready for game day. Throughout the week, league personnel praised the professionalism and responsiveness of city staff. They were equally impressed with Daytona Stadium, noting its excellent condition and suitability for hosting a professional playoff game. An estimated 6,200 spectators attended the game, adding to the excitement of a nationally broadcast sporting event. Hosting a professional playoff game with only a week’s notice demonstrated the city’s ability to execute major events efficiently while providing a first-class experience for athletes, team personnel, fans, broadcasters and the television audience.
A Volusia County native, Kim joined the city in 2017 after a career spanning more than 20 years as a paralegal and real estate closing agent. She previously served as the city’s Permits & Licensing Project Manager, where she played a key role in supporting Daytona Beach’s continued growth and development. While helping manage the city’s building boom, she embraced the city’s professional development program and pursued advanced industry training and certifications. Last year, Kim earned certification as a Master Code Enforcement Professional (MCEP) from the State of Florida, which is an elite designation held by only a select few professionals statewide. At the time of her certification, she was one of only three individuals in Florida to achieve the distinction and the only woman to hold the credential. Please join us in congratulating Kim on her promotion and in wishing her continued success in her new role!
DENZIL SYKES EARNS DISTINGUISHED STATEWIDE RECOGNITION Denzil Sykes, Code Compliance Manager, was honored with the Joseph V. Huskey Officer of the Year Award at the Florida Association of Code Enforcement annual conference in Kissimmee. The prestigious award recognizes a code enforcement professional who consistently exceeds expectations, goes beyond the scope of normal job duties and makes significant contributions to advancing the profession. A city employee for 38 years, Denzil leads a team of 19 staff members, including 12 Code Compliance Inspectors. Under his leadership, the division investigated and closed more than 3,300 code cases in 2025.
ON THE move WITH PARKS & RECREATION A FRESH NEW LOOK HAS ARRIVED AT SCHNEBLY RECREATION CENTER!
The beautiful lobby mural at Schnebly Recreation Center, 1101 N. Atlantic Ave., is now complete, welcoming visitors with a serene beach-inspired scene created by artist Lindsay Bannister of Lindsay Bannister Murals. Designed to reflect the beauty and tranquility of Daytona Beach, the mural features the shoreline where sand meets the ocean beneath a vibrant sunrise, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for everyone who enters the center. The project was truly a collaborative effort, with Parks & Recreation staff members helping shape the design through the selection process and community members providing valuable feedback on the colors, theme and overall vision. Their input helped bring this stunning piece of art to life.
FINAL 2026 MIDTOWN CONCERT, JUNE 27 Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 27, as Troy “Sax Therapyst” and The Remedy bring the vibes to Daisy Stocking Park, 555 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd. DeLand native Troy Harris, known as “Sax Therapyst,” delivers a soulful mix of jazz, R&B, pop, hip-hop, Latin and reggae that keeps crowds on their feet. He has shared the stage with artists including Kenny Lattimore, Jon B., Shaquille O’Neal, Lyfe Jennings and H-Town. Line dancing begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by the concert at 7 p.m. Food and drink vendors will be on-site, so grab your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a fun summer night under the stars.
PROGRAMS & EVENTS facility
BREAKERS PARK PLAY CONTINUES THROUGH JULY 30 Residents and visitors can enjoy free beachside games and activities from 1 to 4 p.m. every Thursday through July 30 at Breakers Oceanfront Park, 13 S. Atlantic Ave. The free program features beach volleyball, yard games, board games, chess, checkers and other family-friendly activities in an oceanfront setting. Residents and visitors are encouraged to bring family and friends and enjoy an afternoon of recreation by the beach.
For event details, visit: DaytonaBeach.gov . SUMMER FUN ON THE RUN 2026
The city’s Summer Fun on the Run program is bringing free family-friendly activities to neighborhoods throughout Daytona Beach. Events feature music, games, food and interactive activities for children and families. All events take place from noon to 3 p.m. A complete schedule is available at DaytonaBeach.gov/SummerFunOnTheRun . AQUATIC CENTERS Daytona Beach’s Cypress and Campbell aquatic centers are open. Enjoy open swim, lap swimming, water play features and family-friendly amenities at affordable prices. Whether you’re swimming laps or spending the day with family, there’s something for everyone. Both facilities are open Monday through Saturday and closed Sunday. For facility information, pricing and hours of opperation, visit: DaytonaBeach.gov/AquaticCenters . RED, WHITE & DAISY BLUE MIDTOWN SUNDAY, JULY 12 The Midtown Sundayz series continues with “Red, White & Daisy Blue” from 3 to 8 p.m. Sunday, July 12, at Daisy Stocking Park, 555 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd. The event will feature music, food and community fellowship. Free meals for veterans and active-duty service members will be available while supplies last.
FOOD & DRINKS
ACTIVITIES
GAMES
JUNE 17 | JUNE 24 | JULY 8 | JULY 15
FROM 12 TO 3 P.M.
Wednesday, June 17 from 12 to 3 p.m. Daytona Garden Apartments, 437 Jean St.
Wednesday, June 24 from 12 to 3 p.m. Lakeside Village, 155 Ontario Court Wednesday, July 8 from 12 to 3 p.m. Dickerson Community Center 308 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. (Palmetto Park Apartments) Wednesday, July 15 from 12 to 3 p.m.
For more information: DaytonaBeach.gov
VCS Disclaimer: The Volusia County School Board is not affiliated with these events/programs in any manner, nor does it endorse or assume any responsibility for any activities which may occur in connection with them.
Pine Haven Apartments 101 Carl Brinkley Circle
Thank You to Our Partners: Daytona Beach Housing Authority, Early Learning Coalition, Family Health Source and Florida Department of Health.
TAI CHI CLASSES AT DICKERSON COMMUNITY CENTER Tai Chi classes continue through July 28 at Dickerson Community Center, 308 S. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd. Sessions are held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and are open to all experience levels. The cost is $5 per class.
FOURTH OF JULY VETERANS CEREMONY & PARADE
Celebrate Independence Day in Daytona Beach with a Veterans Ceremony and Fourth of July Parade Saturday, July 4. The Veterans Ceremony begins at 9 a.m. at the Clock Tower between the Boardwalk and the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort, honoring veterans and first responders. The Fourth of July Parade starts at 10 a.m. on Main Street and features military organizations, combat veterans and members of the Daytona Beach Police and Fire departments. The parade route begins at Atlantic Avenue and travels west along Main Street to the base of the Main Street Bridge. For additional event details, visit DaytonaBeach.gov . Presented by Zone 4 City Commissioner Stacy Cantu in partnership with Daytona Fun Rentals, Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 316, Military Officers Association of America and World’s Most Famous Brewery.
FREE KIDS MOVIE NIGHT Friday, June 26 John H. Dickerson Community Center in the Mickel A. Brown Sr. Activity Building, 308 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. VETERANS CEREMONY & PARADE 4TH JULY Of VETERANS CEREMONY & PARADE 4TH JULY Of CELEBRATING 150 YEARS OF DAYTONA BEACH & 250 YEARS OF AMERICA! CELEBRATING 150 YEARS OF DAYTONA BEACH & 250 YEARS OF AMERICA! FREE TO ATTEND DIVING BOARD SESSIONS Wednesday, July 1 6 to 8 p.m. Ocean Center East Plaza Free event parking is available in the Orange Lot (South Lot). 9 A.M. CLOCK TOWER VETERANS CEREMONY 10 A.M. PARADE ON MAIN STREET CEREMONY BY THE CLOCK TOWER 100 N. Atlantic Ave. PARADE DOWN MAIN STREET Begin on the east end of Main Street and travel west to the base of the Main Street Bridge OPEN HOUSE FITNESS CENTER JOHN H. DICKERSON COMMUNITY CENTER JULY 08 FROM 3-8 P. M. JULY 4, 2026 | CITY OF DAYTONA BEACH 9 A.M. CLOCK TOWER VETERANS CEREMONY 10 A.M. PARADE ON MAIN STREET CEREMONY BY THE CLOCK TOWER 100 N. Atlantic Ave. PARADE DOWN MAIN STREET Begin on the east end of Main Street and travel west to the base of the Main Street Bridge JULY 4, 2026 | CITY OF DAYTONA BEACH
Upcoming Events
FREE TO ATTEND RUM FEST ON MAIN STREET Saturday, June 27 6 to 11 p.m. Main Street
This event is sponsored by Zone 3 Commissioner Quanita May
FREE TO ATTEND FITNESS OPEN HOUSE Wednesday, July 8 3 to 8 p.m. John H. Dickerson Community 308 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
308 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. This event is sponsored by Zone 3 Commissioner Quanita May
Music | Fitness Classes Line Dancing with Eddra Healthy Food, Beverages and Snacks
SPONSORED BY ZONE 3 CITY COMMISSIONER QUANITA MAY
The City of Daytona Beach stands united in recognizing Juneteenth as a vital part of the American story. We encourage residents to reflect, engage and celebrate the enduring pursuit of freedom and equality for all.
Presented by Zone 4 City Commissioner Stacy Cantu in partnership with Daytona Fun Rentals, Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 316, Military Officers Association of America and World’s Most Famous Brewery.
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