New Smyrna Beach Commission Zone 4 Choose 1
The elected officials of the City of New Smyrna Beach, which constitutes the City Commission, consist of four commissioners and a mayor. The mayor and City commissioners are the City’s governing body. The mayor serves a two-year term. There is one commissioner from each zone within the City. Each Commissioner serves a four-year term.The City of New Smyrna Beach operates under a Commission-Manager form of government. The City Commission constitutes the governing body with powers to pass ordinances, adopt regulations, and appoint a chief administrative officer known as the city manager.
Biographical Information
Campaign Phone
646-707-1247
e-mail address
brianvbc21@yahoo.com
Mailing Address
242 Venetian Palms Blvd
New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
What are the two most pressing issues facing the city and how will you address them?
Development and Congestion are the two most pressing issues for NSB. Many issues are at play here. One issue is that developers have had too much control over long term projects, with homeowners needs and desires ignored. I would propose a qualified Homeowners Representative from the beginning of a development. I would also introduce “Form Based Code” zoning which identifies many more details that just usage. Congestion on Flager: Like it or not a parking garage is needed near Flagler. This does not have to be a monstrosity, be below treetop level, and can be painted with ideas from local artists. Install a phone-based parking system. On the beach enforce parking laws on weekends and holidays. Cars only, in parking locations.
What are your priorities in drafting and adopting the budget?
My priorities are controlled growth, environmental protection and sustainability, affordable housing solutions, economic diversification, infrastructure & transportation, and fiscal responsibility. I would look at stricter impact fees on new developments to fund infrastructure improvements, deeper, sustained scrutiny on approval processes for large-scale residential projects, allocate adequate funds towards preserving green spaces and natural areas. Economic diversification to bring stable prosperity and eases pressure on affordable housing. I would look at novel forms of public transportation that both attract tourists and be helpful to residents.
How do you propose we fund transportation improvements and maintenance, construction of roads, and other infrastructure investments to accommodate development?
In order to ease city budget pressure, there are five ways to look at funding, and all methods should be in play. These are: Federal and State grants, local funding mechanisms, bonds and loans, alternative funding mechanisms, strategic planning and community involvement. From the Federal Government, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and the American Rescue Plan Act, ARPA; From the state, the Moving Florida Forward Infrastructure Initiative, and the Community Development Block Grants (CDBG). Ensure local funding mechanisms are in place and include Impact Fees, Local Options Sales Taxes, and PPP’s. All these methods reduce the financial burden on the city.
What is your understanding of the essential problem with the Indian River Lagoon? What should we be doing about it?
The Indian River Lagoon is a complex ecosystem. Problems stem from several interconnected issues: nutrient pollution, stormwater runoff, habitat loss, altered hydrology, and sediment accumulation. Ways to address these issues: Implement stricter regulations on fertilizer use and minimize nutrient runoff; improve stormwater management by filtering pollutants before they reach the lagoon. Upgrade wastewater treatment facilities and convert septic systems to sewer. Restore seagrass, oyster beds and mangroves. Dredge the bottom muck regularly. Continue scientific studies that research and monitor the ecosystem and finally, secure funding from programs like the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project to fund restoration efforts.
What measures would you support to protect the vitality of the heart of New Smyrna Beach?
I believe that the vitality of NSB lies in two areas. City charm, and our fabulous ecosystems. City charm includes our two downtowns, Flager Avenue and Canal Street, while our beach, lagoons and waterways offer our unique ecosystem. I believe in Historic Preservation from the homeowner up. I believe that a “Historic Restoration HOAs” and “Historic Restoration BOAs” (Business Owners) as incentives for the restoration. Additionally, a dedicated fund for historic preservation projects would help. Regarding our ecosystem, I support eco-friendly practices like beach cleanup days and other volunteer opportunities. I also support eco-tourism which elevates awareness of the pristine nature of our ecosystems.
Biographical Information
Campaign Phone
3863144090
e-mail address
hartman4comissioner@gmail.com
Campaign Website
http://hartman4comissioner.com
Mailing Address
PO Box 1324
New Smyrna Beach, Fl 32170
New Smyrna Beach, Fl 32170
What are the two most pressing issues facing the city and how will you address them?
Growth- While we understand that we will not be able to stop growth we need to continue making sure that we minimize the negative impact of any further growth. This includes infrastructure, storm water, preservation of green space.
Fiscal responsibility - We need to continue to be fiscally responsible and yet look for ways to grow revenue that is not dependent on residential rooftops.
What are your priorities in drafting and adopting the budget?
Looking at the needs of the city both short term and long term.
Making sure we maximize all of our availably revenue sources.
How do you propose we fund transportation improvements and maintenance, construction of roads, and other infrastructure investments to accommodate development?
Through the use of impact fees, parking fees and developer funded improvements.
What is your understanding of the essential problem with the Indian River Lagoon? What should we be doing about it?
The lagoon has suffered over time due to runoff and affluent discharge. We as a County need to work together to all take measure that these practices are discontinued.
What measures would you support to protect the vitality of the heart of New Smyrna Beach?
Revitalization of the area through CRA grants and encouraging infill by way of certain fees waivers.