Transform386 Community Engagement Series adds additional meeting on July 31.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

Volusia County's Transform386 Community Engagement Series has received an overwhelmingly positive response from residents, leading the county to schedule another meeting to gather valuable insights and feedback for the Transform386 recovery program. The series, which aims to revitalize the community after the devastating impact of Hurricane Ian, has proven to be a vital platform for residents to voice their opinions and concerns.

The first three meetings in Ormond Beach, DeLand, and Deltona, saw an impressive turnout of engaged residents who actively shaped the future of their community's recovery. In light of this success, Volusia County has added another meeting to the series, further demonstrating its commitment to inclusivity and transparency.

The newest meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 31, 2023, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Port Orange Regional Library at 1005 City Center Circle. Additionally, two more meetings are still on schedule, with the following dates and locations:

1. Thursday, July 27, at the New Smyrna Beach Regional Library, 1001 S. Dixie Freeway.
2. Thursday, August 3, at the Daytona Beach Regional Library, 105 Jackie Robinson Parkway.

The Transform386 initiative received a substantial grant of $328.9 million in Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This financial support empowers the county to lead the charge in restoring and revitalizing the community following Hurricane Ian's devastation.

During the community engagement series, the focus is on gathering crucial feedback for proposed projects and programs. These projects aim to address the ongoing disaster recovery needs of the community. Key areas of concern include infrastructure restoration, housing, economic revitalization, and mitigation. Priority will go towards low to moderate-income households to ensure an equitable recovery process.

In conjunction with the community meetings, an unmet needs survey is available on the Transform386 website, https://www.transform386.org, until midnight on Friday, August 4. This survey provides another avenue for residents to share their perspectives and contribute to the recovery efforts.

The valuable feedback collected throughout the engagement series from the meetings and surveys will help draft an Action Plan to outline how to allocate the funds. The county plans to publish the draft plan in August or September, initiating a 30-day public comment period.

The final step in the process involves a thorough review and approval by the Volusia County Council before submitting the plan to HUD for final approval. The county is optimistic that all necessary parties will give the green light by the end of 2023.

For those seeking more information about the Transform386 initiative or interested in arranging a presentation for their community or organization, detailed resources are available on the official Transform386 website transform386@volusia.org or by calling 386-943-7029.