🏛️ Local Government Participation Guide
Most environmental decisions that affect Central Florida happen at the local level. County commissioners, city councils, and planning boards make crucial decisions about land use, water protection, and environmental regulations. Your participation can make the difference in protecting our natural heritage.
🏛️ Key Government Bodies
🏛️ Volusia County Commission
Meets: First and third Tuesday, 9:00 AM
Where: Historic Courthouse, 101 N. Alabama Ave, DeLand
Key Powers: Land use, zoning, environmental regulations
Public Comment: 3 minutes per speaker on agenda items
🏛️ Flagler County Commission
Meets: First and third Monday, 9:00 AM
Where: Government Services Building, Bunnell
Key Powers: Coastal development, conservation land management
Public Comment: Sign up before meeting, 3-minute limit
🌊 St. Johns River Water Management District
Meets: Second Tuesday, 9:00 AM
Where: Palatka (virtual attendance available)
Key Powers: Water use permits, minimum flows and levels
Public Comment: 3 minutes, advance registration recommended
🏗️ Local Planning Boards
Varies by City: DeLand, New Smyrna Beach, Ormond Beach, etc.
Key Powers: Development approvals, zoning changes
Meetings: Usually monthly, check city websites
Impact: Direct influence on local development decisions
📝 How to Participate Effectively
Your voice matters in environmental decision-making - here's how to make it count
📋 Before the Meeting
Review Agenda: Study agenda items and supporting documents
Research Issues: Understand environmental impacts and alternatives
Prepare Comments: Write key points, practice timing
Coordinate: Connect with other environmental advocates
🗣️ During Public Comment
Be Specific: Reference agenda item numbers and project details
Use Science: Cite environmental studies and data
Personal Impact: Explain how issue affects you personally
Suggest Solutions: Offer constructive alternatives
📧 Follow-Up Actions
Thank Supporters: Acknowledge commissioners who vote for environment
Continue Engagement: Stay involved through implementation
Monitor Outcomes: Track results of decisions
Build Relationships: Maintain contact with responsive officials
📞 Contact Information for Environmental Issues
🏛️ Volusia County Council (VERIFIED 12/9/2025)
County Chair: Jeff Brower (Elected Countywide)
At-Large: Jake Johansson (Elected Countywide)
District 1: Don Dempsey
District 2: Matt Reinhart (Vice Chair)
District 3: Danny Robins
District 4: Troy Kent
District 5: David Santiago
Main Number: 386-736-2700 | 123 W. Indiana Ave., DeLand
🏛️ Flagler County Commissioners (VERIFIED 12/9/2025)
Commissioner: Leann Pennington - lpennington@flaglercounty.gov
Commissioner: Kim Carney - kcarney@flaglercounty.gov
Commissioner: Andy Dance - adance@flaglercounty.gov
Commissioner: Greg Hansen - ghansen@flaglercounty.gov
Commissioner: Pam Richardson - prichardson@flaglercounty.gov
Main Number: (386) 313-4001
Location: 1769 E. Moody Blvd, Bunnell, FL 32110
🌊 Water Management District
Executive Director: Dr. Ann Shortelle
Main Office: (386) 329-4500
Environmental Contact: env.services@sjrwmd.com
Public Records: records@sjrwmd.com
📚 Understanding Environmental Permits & Regulations
Development Review Process
Learn how development projects are reviewed for environmental impacts, when public input is accepted, and how to effectively advocate for stronger environmental protection.
Water Use Permits
Understand how water use permits work, when they're required, and how to participate in the permitting process to protect spring flows and water quality.
Wetland Regulations
Learn about wetland protection laws, when permits are required, and how to ensure proper enforcement of wetland regulations in your community.
Tree Protection Ordinances
Understand local tree protection laws, when tree removal permits are required, and how to advocate for stronger tree preservation policies.
Air Quality Regulations
Learn about air quality permits, emission standards, and how to participate in air quality decision-making to protect public health.
Environmental Impact Review
Understand when environmental impact assessments are required and how to ensure thorough evaluation of environmental consequences.
🔗 Government Participation Resources
📅 Meeting Calendars
Stay informed about upcoming government meetings, public hearings, and comment deadlines for environmental issues affecting Central Florida.
View Meeting Calendar →📋 Comment Templates
Download templates for public comments on common environmental issues including development impacts, water protection, and habitat conservation.
Download Templates →🎓 Advocacy Training
Learn effective advocacy techniques through our training programs and workshops on environmental policy and public participation.
Join Training →🗳️ Your Voice, Your Environment
Democracy Works When You Participate
Local government decisions have the most direct impact on Central Florida's environment. By participating in the democratic process, you can help protect the springs, wildlife habitats, clean air, and natural areas that make our region special.