Oct. 15, 2025

There was so much news to share in this edition of the City Manager’s Update newsletter! In this issue, you’ll find highlights from the recently adopted 2026 budget, employee updates, community projects and upcoming events happening throughout Daytona Beach.

Here’s a quick look at what’s inside:

• New Fiscal Year, New Budget: A $379.8 million balanced budget keeps the millage rate steady at 5.9300 and continues investing in essential city services.
  • Employee Compensation & Workforce Growth: The city now has 1,025 budgeted positions, including 16 new roles. All eligible employees will receive pay increases in October 2025 and April 2026, with additional raises and pension enhancements for sworn public safety personnel.
  • Capital & Infrastructure Projects: Funding for major initiatives like $4 million in road resurfacing and park, facility and equipment upgrades.
• In the Works: Progress at Cypress Park and Lenox Park playgrounds, construction update on beach access stairs and upcoming repairs at Sickler Park.
• Fire Department Spotlight: Congratulations to Deputy Chief Jessica Matthews for graduating from the Chamber’s Leadership Daytona program, Fire Prevention Week outreach and Drug Abuse Response Team’s efforts with local agencies to help people along Ridgewood Avenue.  
• Events Calendar: Biketoberfest, Artisan Market, Zone 5 Community Meeting & Dinner, BCU Homecoming Parade, Coastal Feasibility Meeting, Halifax Art Festival, Fire Prevention Night and more.