DELAND, FL — October 29, 2025 Volusia County residents will have a rare opportunity to speak directly to their state legislators during the Volusia County Legislative Delegation’s annual public meeting, set for Wednesday, October 29, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Deland City Hall Commission Chamber.
This year’s meeting carries heightened significance as community leaders and concerned citizens rally in opposition to Senate Bill 180 (SB 180), a controversial piece of legislation that many view as a threat to Florida’s constitutional right to home rule.
🏛️ Understanding SB 180: A Challenge to Local Control SB 180 is presented as a disaster relief measure, but critics argue it would severely restrict the ability of local governments to respond to their communities’ evolving needs. The bill prohibits cities and counties from enacting land-use and development regulations that are “more restrictive or burdensome” than those in effect as of August 1, 2024.
Opponents say this would tie the hands of local officials trying to address pressing issues such as flooding, overdevelopment, and environmental protection. Already, at least 16 local governments—including Orange and Manatee counties—have joined a legal challenge questioning the bill’s constitutionality.
📣 Why Home Rule Matters Florida’s home rule provision empowers local governments to govern themselves and make decisions tailored to their residents’ needs. SB 180, critics argue, undermines this foundational principle by shifting control away from local leaders and into the hands of state lawmakers.
“This is about preserving the voice of our communities,” said one local advocate. “When Tallahassee overrides local decision-making, it silences the people who live with the consequences.”
🗓️ Meeting Details & How to Participate
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Date: Wednesday, October 29, 2025
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Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (Public Hearing)
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Location: Deland City Hall Commission Chamber, 120 South Florida Avenue, Deland, FL 32720
The meeting will be attended by all state senators and representatives serving Volusia County, including:
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Senator Tom Leek (District 7)
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Senator Tom A. Wright (District 8)
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Representative Richard Gentry (District 27)
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Representative Bill Partington (District 28)
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Representative Webster Barnaby (District 29)
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Representative Chase Tramont (District 30)
To be placed on the agenda or for more information, contact Senator Tom Wright’s office at 386-304-7630 or email morris.christopher@flsenate.gov. If you plan to speak, submit background materials by October 10, 2025.
🛑 Make Your Voice Heard Residents are strongly encouraged to attend and provide public comment in opposition to SB 180. This is a critical moment to defend local autonomy and ensure that decisions about Volusia County’s future remain in the hands of those who know it best.
Your voice matters—show up, speak out, and stand for home rule.
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