Transparency: building trust, together

Stop managing decline. Start building a city that works. Daytona Beach has a commission-manager government. The mayor is one of seven votes on the City Commission. Real change requires leadership, public pressure, sharp policy, and a working majority.

Our commitment to open government

When we talk about being open and honest with the community, we’re sharing the kind of information that helps people understand how decisions are made, where resources are going, and what challenges we’re facing as a city. That means being willing to put real facts on the table — even when they’re uncomfortable — because trust is built on truth, not convenience.

What you deserve to know

Here’s the type of information we believe the public deserves:

  • Clear explanations of city decisions — not just what was decided, but why, who was involved, and what alternatives were considered.
  • Straightforward budget transparency — where money is being spent, what’s working, and what isn’t.
  • Accurate updates on public safety issues — without exaggeration, without minimizing, and without political spin.
  • Honest communication about challenges — whether it’s housing, infrastructure, or staffing, people deserve to know the truth so we can solve problems together.
  • Regular reporting on progress — what goals we’ve met.

How transparency builds trust and involvement

Sharing real information — the kind people can see, verify, and understand — builds trust because it shows you’re not operating behind closed doors. When people know what you know, they feel like partners in the work, not spectators. Here’s how that transparency strengthens involvement and confidence:

  • People see the reasoning behind decisions — When residents understand why something is happening, even if they disagree, they feel respected rather than dismissed.
  • It removes the mystery from government — Clear information turns city processes from something distant into something people can follow and influence.
  • It shows you’re accountable — When you openly share data, challenges, and progress, people see that you’re not hiding mistakes or inflating successes.
  • It invites people into the conversation — When residents have access to the same information you do, they feel empowered to ask better questions, offer solutions, and stay engaged.
  • It builds consistency and credibility.

Quick access to key information

When you visit this page, we want you to quickly find what’s happening, how to get involved, and where your voice fits.