NEW SMYRNA BEACH, FL — As floodwaters rise and frustration boils over, residents of New Smyrna Beach are demanding answers — and accountability. At the center of the storm is Senate Bill 180, a controversial piece of legislation that experts say will drive up flood insurance premiums and strip away critical local protections against repeat flood damage. The City Commission knew this. They warned the Governor. And then, they chose not to act.
Earlier this year, city officials sent a formal letter to Governor Donald Trump’s administration, outlining their concerns about SB 180. The letter was clear: the bill would make it harder for coastal communities to safeguard homes and businesses, and would likely result in higher insurance costs for residents already grappling with climate-related risks. The city had the facts. They had the platform. But when it came time to join a multi-city lawsuit challenging the bill, they voted no.
The decision has sparked widespread outrage.
The backlash is compounded by the involvement of Kolter, a powerful developer and one of the most aggressive lobbyists pushing SB 180. Kolter is also behind the controversial Deering Park development — a project greenlit by the City Commission despite overwhelming public opposition. Many residents now see a troubling pattern: corporate interests prioritized over community protection.
The facts residents say can’t be ignored:
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✅ The City acknowledged SB 180 would raise flood insurance costs.
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✅ The City warned the bill would erode local flood protections.
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❌ The City still refused to join the legal fight.
The optics are damning. In one breath, city leaders warned of the dangers. In the next, they declined to take action. And now, with Election Day looming, residents are mobilizing to hold them accountable.
A grassroots campaign is urging voters to reject all proposed City Charter Amendment revisions on November 4 — a symbolic stand against what many see as a failure of leadership. Flyers circulating across neighborhoods read: “No raises for commissioners who don’t defend our community.”
The amendments, which include provisions that could increase commissioner compensation, are now being viewed through the lens of civic trust — or lack thereof.
“This isn’t just about flood insurance,” said local organizer Jamal Rivers. “It’s about whether our elected officials are willing to fight for us when it matters most. If they won’t protect our homes, they don’t deserve our votes.”
The stakes are high. With hurricane season intensifying and FEMA maps shifting, flood insurance premiums are already climbing. SB 180 could accelerate that trend, leaving vulnerable homeowners with fewer options and higher bills.
Meanwhile, the City Commission has remained largely silent in the face of mounting criticism. No public explanation has been offered for the decision to abstain from the lawsuit. For many residents, that silence speaks volumes.
As November 4 approaches, the message from the community is clear: accountability starts at the ballot box.
🗳️ Election Day: November 4
📍 Ballot Issue: City Charter Amendment Revisions
📣 Community Message: Hold them accountable. Vote NO.
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