Disclaimer: This article reflects the views and statements of Jason Voelz, a candidate for Florida State Senate District 8. The information presented is based on publicly available records and recent legislative actions. It does not represent the official position of Volusia County Council or any government agency. Readers are encouraged to verify details independently and consult local sources for further context.
Port Orange, FL — September 7, 2025 Florida State Senate District 8 candidate Jason Voelz is calling out what he describes as “petty political theater” in Volusia County, accusing the County Council of sending mixed signals on one of the most controversial land-use bills in recent memory—Senate Bill 180 (SB 180).
SB 180, signed into law in June, restricts local governments from enacting more stringent land-use regulations for up to a year following a hurricane, and retroactively nullifies any such regulations passed since August 1, 20242. The law has sparked backlash across Florida, with over a dozen counties and cities—including Deltona, Orange County, and Manatee County—joining a coalition lawsuit to challenge its constitutionality.
Volusia County Council publicly voted to lobby for changes to SB 180, arguing that the law was overly broad and undermined local control2. However, Voelz and other critics say the Council’s actions behind closed doors tell a different story.
🏛️ A Mirror Image in Chambers? Voelz points to recent votes by the Council that rolled back local regulations—particularly those related to stormwater and development review—that mirrored the very provisions SB 180 enforces. “You say you’re protecting our communities from Tallahassee overreach,” Voelz said, “but your own votes are handing developers the same fast-track privileges—just without the state label.”
The contradiction has raised eyebrows among residents in Port Orange, New Smyrna Beach, and Edgewater, where flooding and infrastructure strain are top concerns. Many argue that local governments must retain the ability to regulate growth and implement stormwater improvements to mitigate the impacts of overdevelopment.
🌧️ Flooding, Development, and Accountability Enhanced stormwater standards passed earlier this year were among the regulations nullified by SB 180. Critics say the Council’s decision to remove similar local rules undermines its credibility in opposing the state law. “This isn’t leadership. It’s hypocrisy. And the people see it,” Voelz said.
He’s urging voters to demand consistency and transparency from their elected officials. “You can’t fight SB 180 in public, then quietly pass its mirror image in chambers. We deserve better.”
🗳️ Looking Ahead: District 8 and Beyond As the race for Florida State Senate District 8 heats up, Voelz is positioning himself as a champion of home rule, smart growth, and community-first governance. His message is clear: “Let’s make 8 great.”
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