Daytona Beach city leaders are actively reviewing a proposal to mandate fencing around retention ponds located at multi‑family housing complexes. The move comes after the heartbreaking deaths of three‑ and five‑year‑old brothers, Kashh and Elijah, who drowned in a pond near an apartment building on Clyde Morris Boulevard earlier this month.
Community grief fuels safety push
City Commissioner Dannette Henry addressed the council on Wednesday night, describing the loss as “an unimaginable loss” for the community. “We cannot bring these little ones back, but we can show the community that we care and that we want to see safer laws,” Henry said, urging swift action.
Resident concerns highlight need for protection
Although the meeting was not open for public comment, resident Michael Lowe spoke with WESH 2 after the session, emphasizing the urgency of the issue. Lowe recounted seeing children wander toward a retention pond to retrieve a ball, warning that without barriers another tragedy could occur. “When you lose a loved one due to something that could be somewhat stopped, it has an impact on the community real bad,” he said.
City staff to develop fencing concepts
City staff indicated they will now explore design concepts and cost estimates for required fencing. The proposals will be presented to the commission at a future meeting for further discussion and possible ordinance adoption.
Balancing safety and property rights
Officials acknowledge the need to balance public safety with property owners’ concerns about additional costs and maintenance. The city plans to consult with developers, engineers, and legal counsel to ensure any fencing requirements are reasonable, effective, and compliant with state regulations.
Next steps for the commission
The commission will review the staff’s recommendations and decide whether to move forward with a formal ordinance. If adopted, the ordinance could set a timeline for existing properties to install fencing and establish standards for new construction.
Why this matters for families
Retention ponds are common features in Florida’s flood‑control infrastructure, but they can pose hidden dangers, especially for children playing near multi‑family complexes. By requiring protective barriers, Daytona Beach aims to safeguard families while preserving the essential function of these water‑management structures.
Community members are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming council meetings and provide input during the public‑comment periods that will accompany any proposed ordinance. The city hopes that proactive measures will prevent future loss and reinforce its commitment to protecting the most vulnerable residents.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
