DELTONA, Fla. — City leaders in Deltona are voicing concerns over Senate Bill 1118, a proposed state law that could give Tallahassee legislators control over local development decisions.

Officials fear the bill could undermine efforts to regulate growth and protect sensitive lands, including the city’s newly approved “Keep Deltona Wild” overlay district.

The city commission held a special meeting Saturday to discuss the bill and how it could affect zoning regulations designed to limit mass development.

The overlay district aims to protect undeveloped lands from major and dense development in the city's sixth district.

However, Commissioner Nick Lulli, who represents District 6, says the state’s involvement could strip local governments of their ability to manage land use.

“I recently heard about Senate Bill 1118 moving through the legislature, and it really concerned me,” Lulli said. “It feels like it could make ‘Keep Deltona Wild’—and other zoning overlay efforts across Central Florida—a moot point. I believe these initiatives are meant to protect residents from the issues that come with rapid, intense development.”

Residents in Lulli’s district have raised concerns about how new development projects could impact traffic, schools and flood risks.

“Our district sits on the eastern edge of Deltona, home to much of the city’s remaining vacant and agricultural land,” Lulli said. “My constituents have said these developments are causing problems—whether it’s flooding, overcrowded schools, or increased traffic. And what developers are currently required to contribute just isn’t enough to offset those impacts.”

Lulli pointed to Hurricane Ian, during which District 6 experienced severe flooding. He believes that unregulated development could be contributing to drainage issues and worsening storm impacts.

The “Keep Deltona Wild” overlay district is designed to encourage sustainable growth while protecting natural resources.

But if Senate Bill 1118 passes, Lulli fears the city may no longer have the authority to implement or enforce such zoning measures.

“This bill could take away the power of local governments to make land-use decisions,” he said. “That means Deltona residents could have little say over what gets built in their own neighborhoods.”

The commission meeting included time for public comments, allowing residents to voice their concerns about development and the potential impact of Senate Bill 1118.

“We want to maintain the character, zero lot line houses are not our character," said resident Lori Warnicke. "Our community is a true community.”

City leaders say they will continue to advocate for local control over zoning decisions and plan to monitor the bill as it moves through the legislature.