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CITY MANAGER’S UPDATE
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A LEGACY OF WATER, A FUTURE OF CONSERVATION
April is recognized as Water Conservation Month across Florida. In the City of Daytona Beach, it serves as a reminder that protecting water resources is a shared responsibility and long- standing priority. For decades, the city has invested in reliable water infrastructure to serve residents and businesses. That commitment dates to 1903 with the construction of the Marion Street Water Treatment Facility, Florida’s first lime-softening plant. In 1975, the Ralph Brennan Water Treatment Plant was built on the west side of the city and later became the sole source of water after the Marion Street facility was decommissioned. The system expanded over time, including a major capacity increase in 1986 to 24 million gallons per day. Today, the Brennan plant continues to provide high-quality drinking water while supporting a growing community. Conservation remains just as critical. It is the most effective way to sustain water supplies, meet future demand and protect Florida’s water-dependent ecosystems, including springs, rivers, lakes and wetlands. While rainfall may seem abundant, only
a small portion replenishes underground aquifers, and during dry periods, increased demand can strain resources. The average adult needs about 2.5 quarts of water per day, yet the average Floridian uses nearly 100 gallons daily, highlighting opportunities to reduce usage. The city supports conservation through education, outreach and incentive programs, including the Toilet Rebate Program, which encourages residents to install WaterSense-certified fixtures. These upgrades have saved more than 1 million gallons of water annually. Education also plays a key role. The city’s 2026 “Drop Savers” Poster Contest engaged elementary students in promoting water conservation. This year’s winners are Carla Gonçales-Fernandes (kindergarten through first grade) and Nikiya Welch (fourth through fifth grade).
Residents are encouraged to learn more about conservation programs, tips and incentives by visiting the city’s website. Together, every drop counts.
Marion Street Treatment Plant Circa 1970
Carla Goncales-Fernandes K-1st Grade Winner
Nikiya Welch 4-5th Grade Winner
Ralph Brennon Treatment Plant 2025
City of Daytona Beach www.DaytonaBeach.gov 301 S. Ridgewood Ave., Daytona Beach
U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (SBA) LOANS The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering low-interest disaster loans to Volusia County small businesses and private nonprofit organizations that experienced financial losses from the frost and freeze between Jan. 23 and Feb. 5. The assistance is available through the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, which provides working capital to eligible small businesses, agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and nonprofits affected by the cold weather, even without physical damage. Funds may be used to cover fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills. Volusia County is included in the disaster declaration, making local organizations eligible to apply. Applications are available at sba.gov/disaster. For more information, call 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. The deadline to apply is Nov. 4.
CONGRATULATIONS PHEBE! Phebe Fuqua, a redevelopment project manager for the City of Daytona Beach, was named Volusia and Flagler County area’s Young Local Government Officer of the Year at last week’s 20th annual 40 Under Forty gala. She was one of 40 young professionals honored for their outstanding professional and volunteer achievements. Fuqua was recognized for her work in advancing economic development, supporting local businesses and helping organizations grow through complex challenges. In her role with the city and through her consulting firm, Elite Eagle Development Inc., she has helped deploy critical funding, move key development projects forward and deliver strategic solutions. Fuqua is also known for her dedication to mentoring and advocating for children, families and underserved communities.
PERMIT AND INSPECTION FEES WAIVED THROUGH SEPT. 10 The City of Daytona Beach is waiving permit and inspection fees for commercial and residential projects from March 19 through Sept. 10, 2026. Eligible projects include new construction, interior renovations, roof replacements and upgrades to electrical and fire suppression systems, as well as improvements such as fences, doors, windows, driveways and air conditioning units. Applications are available online at daytonabeach.ims16.com/ims, or contact Permits and Licensing at 386-671-8140 for more information.
City of Daytona Beach | www.DaytonaBeach.gov | 301 S. Ridgewood Ave., Daytona Beach
IN THE WORKS
NEW FENCE AT DAYTONA BEACH GOLF CLUB
Project Status: 100% Complete Project Cost: $80,150
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
New black chain-link fencing has been installed along Beville Road on the perimeter of the Daytona Beach Golf Club. The $80,150 project replaced the previously damaged fence and will enhance security and the appearance along the golf course.
HALIFAX HARBOR BOATHOUSE Project Status: Under Construction Cost: $759,391.40 Construction is underway on a new three-slip covered boathouse with lifts at Halifax Harbor Marina. The contractor is actively installing underground utility lines from the landward side to the seawall to support future connections, and installation of new pilings is ongoing. Electrical components, including meters and panels, have also been installed. Complete electrical connection is pending a scheduled shutdown by Florida Power & Light.
PROJECT COMPLETED
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
RIVERFRONT PARK, MANATEE ISLAND AND MARINA DOCK REPAIR
Project Status: Under Construction | Project Cost: $647,001
Work is underway to repair the day docks along the eastern boundary of Riverfront Park, just north of the International Speedway Boulevard bridge. The docks were damaged during Hurricane Milton. Two of the piers will be removed and replaced, and all will be resecured using new framing systems. The project includes replacing several damaged pilings, along with electrical upgrades such as new wiring, conduit and dock lighting. At Manatee Island, floating docks also sustained storm damage, including compromised pile guides and pilings. Currently, floating finger docks near the old armory site are being rehabilitated. Thirteen of 20 dock components have been fabricated off-site and will be installed following demolition. The contractor is working to resolve schedule delays and continue construction.
City of Daytona Beach | www.DaytonaBeach.gov | 301 S. Ridgewood Ave., Daytona Beach
ON THE move WITH PARKS & RECREATION GYMNASTICS SPRING SEASON The Daytona Beach Gymnastics Spring A Session runs March 31 through May 15, offering a range of classes for children of all skill levels. Programs include parent and child classes, preschool “Twinkling Stars” sessions for children ages 3 and up, and beginner to advanced gymnastics for boys and girls ages 5-12. Evening classes are also available for girls ages 5 and older.
Classes are held at the gymnastics facility located at 1101 N. Atlantic Ave., providing a safe and structured setting for youth to build strength, coordination and confidence.
Registration details are available at DaytonaBeach.gov/Activities.
SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION NOW OPEN Registration remains open for the city’s summer camp program, with limited spots still available at Sunnyland Recreation Center, Cherry Cultural and Educational Center and the Yvonne Scarlett- Golden Center. The program is open to children ages 5 through 14 and offers a variety of engaging activities throughout the summer. Participants will receive breakfast and lunch and enjoy weekly swimming lessons, field trips and organized sports. Families are encouraged to register early, as space is limited and programs fill quickly. Registration is available online at DaytonaBeach.gov/Activities. The summer camp program is sponsored in part by AdventHealth.
City of Daytona Beach www.DaytonaBeach.gov 301 S. Ridgewood Ave., Daytona Beach
PROGRAMS & EVENTS facility
SWIM PROGRAMS BEGIN NEXT WEEK Swim programs at Cypress Aquatic Center begin next week, offering both swim lessons and a youth swim league for residents of all ages and skill levels. Space is limited, and participants are encouraged to register early before classes fill.
Residents are encouraged to secure their spot now, as enrollment is limited and classes are expected to fill quickly.
Registration details are available at DaytonaBeach.gov/Activities.
NEW PLAYGROUND OPEN The city has completed upgrades to the Midtown Recreation Complex playground at Cypress Park, 981 George W. Engram Blvd., adding new amenities and improving accessibility. The project, supported in part by a $375,028 grant from the Daytona Beach Racing and Recreational Facilities District and approved by the City Commission, includes new playground equipment for children ages 2 to 12 and outdoor fitness features such as a decline bench, leg lift and flex wheel.
CRAB AND SEAFOOD FESTIVAL SET FOR APRIL 25 The Crab and Seafood Festival will take place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, April 25, along Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard, offering a full day of food, entertainment and family-friendly activities. Families can enjoy a dedicated Kid Zone from noon to 5 p.m. at Daisy Stocking Park, which will include face painting, inflatables and free hot dogs, chips and drinks for children 12 and younger. Evening entertainment will continue at Daisy Stocking Park, with a live concert at 7 p.m. featuring The Groov. For more information and a full program schedule, visit DaytonaBeach.gov/SeafoodFestival. The event is presented by Zone 6 City Commissioner Paula R. Reed and Divine Designs, with sponsorship support from A.I.B. Roofing and Construction LLC.
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CRAB & SEAFOOD FESTIVAL The Crab & Seafood Festival will take place rain or shine from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, April 25, on Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard between Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Charles Street. The family-friendly event will feature fresh seafood, live music, local vendors and a Kids Zone from noon to 5 p.m. at Daisy Stocking Park, 555 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd., with games, inflatables and face painting. An evening concert featuring The Groov will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. at the park. Parking is available at Daisy Stocking Park, Joe Harris Park and nearby streets. Follow the City of Daytona Beach on Facebook for updates. This event is presented by Zone 6 Commissioner Paula R. Reed & Divine Designs and is sponsored by A.I.B. Roofing and Construction LLC. HOUSING FAIR April 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church, 580 George W. Engram Blvd.
What to Expect: Home Buying Tips & First-Time Buyer Guidance Down Payment Assistance & Funding Programs Credit Building, Repair & Free Credit Checks Foreclosure Prevention & Housing Support Wills, Trusts & Property Inheritance Info
EASTER BEACH RUN Saturday, April 4 Oceanfront Bandshell 70 Boardwalk DaytonaBeach.gov/EasterBeachRun
COMMUNITY YARD SALE Saturday, April 11 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Schnebly Rec Center 1101 N. Atlantic Ave.
For more information: Call (386) 274-4441 or Email Jennika.Edgerton@mfhp.org COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY SHRED DAY Saturday, April 18 9 a.m. to noon
HOUSING FAIR Saturday, April 25 10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Mainland High School’s gym parking lot, 1255 W. ISB Blvd.
Allen Chapel A.M.E Church 580 George W. Engram Blvd.
Hosted by Zone 6 City Commissioner Paula R. Reed and the Daytona Beach Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Sponsored by Mid-Florida Housing Partnership Inc. and the City of Daytona Beach.
FREE TO ATTEND MIDTOWN
FREE TO ATTEND CRAB & SEAFOOD FESTIVAL Saturday, April 25 at 11 a.m. Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd. DaytonaBeach.gov/SeafoodFestival
CONCERT SERIES April 25, May 30 and June 27 at 6:30 p.m. Daisy Stocking Park 555 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd.
This event is presented by Zone 6 Commissioner Paula R. Reed & Divine Designs and is sponsored by A.I.B. Roofing and Construction LLC.
City of Daytona Beach | www.DaytonaBeach.gov | 301 S. Ridgewood Ave., Daytona Beach
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