VCC Sets Public Meeting For Trespass/Beach Code Ordinance

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Deland, FL- Volusia County Council's agenda included the drafting of an ordinance to amend the beach code. Jamie Seaman, Volusia Deputy County Attorney, explained that some of the conduct provisions only applied to the beach.  This would include parking lots and parks at the beach. The amendment recognizes first amendment rights and addresses aggressive solicitation. Seaman went on to make the point that someone hanging around the bathrooms or playground could raise suspicions.
Seaman summed up the draft by saying they considered aesthetics, safety and providing a good environment for the public and recommended that a public hearing be set on the matter for October 16. The motion for the public hearing on October 16 was approved.
Also on the agenda, the  Volusia County Medical Examiner's office has been running under the interim leadership of Dr. Jon Thogmartin since June.  Thogmartin has worked with county legal staff to create a contract for a permanent medical examiner. He said privatizing is how he has worked in Pinellas County and it's a better way to go.  The contract would also privatize the operation.  Councilperson Billie Wheeler motioned that the contract of $2,556,955 be approved for the 2018-2019 fiscal year. It was carried unanimously.