Two cities in West Volusia County strive to own recognition as the first and most progressive environmentally-friendly Florida city.  The two municipalities of DeLand and Deltona go beyond the tradition Three Rs (Reduce, Reuse, and Recycling) in order to conserve energy, water, and other resources.  Both DeLand and Deltona share initiatives such as incentives and rebates for citizens who live and build green.  Deltona implements their efforts into ordinances, and DeLand builds on policy.

These standards, launched by the 2008 Florida law that all government buildings must meet (or exceed) certain green standards.  The Florida Green Guild uses about 365 points in 19 categories to designate “green” standards, and certification is awarded from bronze to gold.  Both DeLand and Deltona hope to receive gold in 2009.

DeLand’s “The Lynn Business Center at Stetson University was the first building in Florida to receive green LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council in 2003.  Incentives currently offered in the communities include reduced permitting fees, reduction of water/sewer impact fees, expedited review of development plans, and special recognition by the  city.

The cities’ greening initiatives have not gone without concern by some local citizens, but largely city officials, residents, and organizations have been supportive.  Local builders are involved as well in helping the Volusia County Home Builders Association advocate other Florida cities to adopt such incentives and ordinances.

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