- May 18, 2026
Dear Editor:
Ormond Beach currently is and has always been confronted by controversial situations. It’s just a government thing.
But things have changed. There is now very limited media, Ormond Beach Observer excepted, and the population is forced to pretty much rely on social media for local information as incredibly dangerous as that is.
So who should be putting out the facts on city issues? I say it is the responsibility of city staff to do so. The current policy of abdicating that role and leaving up to the elected commissioners is just bad policy.
My question to city management is, so what’s the big secret? You have an extremely talented public information officer. Why not use that talent to help answer the residents concerns, before things get blown all out of proportion by social media and the bomb throwers.
Under the spirit of openness and transparency, I invite a reply by city staff.
Stan Driscoll
Ormond Beach
Dear Editor:
Conservative Citizens of Ormond Beach is glad to formally endorse Mayor Jason Leslie for reelection. His motto is the "People’s’" Mayor and he has really grown in his first term. Join us in supporting him for reelection, thank you and God bless you!
Al Stewart
Ormond Beach
Dear Editor:
On behalf of the members of International Union of Police Associations Local 6075, I am proud to announce our endorsement of Commissioner Lori Tolland for mayor of the City of Ormond Beach.
As union president, I work closely with city leadership on matters that directly affect public safety, officer welfare, and the quality of service we provide to our community. Throughout this work, Commissioner Tolland has consistently demonstrated a strong understanding of these priorities and a genuine commitment to supporting the men and women who serve on the front lines.
Commissioner Tolland has been a steady and reliable partner in advancing policies that strengthen public safety while ensuring officers have the resources, training, and equipment necessary to perform their duties effectively and safely. Equally important, she recognizes the importance of fair working conditions, open communication, and mutual respect between city leadership and law enforcement personnel.
What distinguishes Commissioner Tolland is her accessibility and straightforward leadership style. She listens, she shows up, and she engages honestly — even when the conversations are difficult. That approach builds trust not only within our department but across the broader community we serve.
Our members have seen firsthand her commitment to balancing accountability with meaningful support for law enforcement. She understands that strong, safe communities depend on both effective policing and strong community relationships, and she has worked to advance both.
For these reasons, the members of IUPA Local 6075 fully support Commissioner Lori Tolland and appreciate her continued leadership and partnership.
Rhett Summerlot, president of IUPA Local 6075
Ray Llanes, vice president of IUPA Local 6075
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