Page 4 - Fred Lowry News Today

Vandaveer’s future awaits next city steps

Five new people are joining the Volusia County Council this week, bringing the possibility of big changes and a new, less tense dynamic.

Dangerously negative degree temperatures made Old Market a bit quieter than normal for this time of year. Just days away from Christmas shoppers still braved the cold for last minute errands.

Four Volusia County Council members attended their last

Volusia County Chair Jeff Brower voted against raises for the county manager and county attorney on Tuesday, but they each received a 4% increase.

Until this week, retired truck drivers faced potentially deep cuts in their pension checks. But a $36 billion federal infusion into their pension fund should save their benefits.

Volusia County split the Public Protection Department, its largest area of local government, and promoted two employees on Tuesday.

The Volusia County Council will have several new members in January, including Don Dempsey, who defeated incumbent Barbara Girtman.

Either Victor Ramos or David Santiago will take over in 2023 after Volusia County Councilman Fred Lowry ran for the School Board.

Smart growth, affordable housing and the economy are among the top priorities for District 5 candidates for Volusia County Council.