About Mike

Introduction: Mike Poniatowski announces his candidacy for the At Large Seat of the Volusia County Council in the 2026 elections.
Background:
Lifelong resident of Volusia County, grew up on the beach and graduated from Spruce Creek High School in 1977.
Diverse career in public safety: Firefighter (5 years), Police Officer/Deputy Sheriff (37 years), Paramedic/EMT (35 years), SWAT Team member, flight medic, marine deputy, EMS instructor, and Director of Operations for EVAC Ambulance (22 years).
Extensive leadership experience as Emergency Manager for Florida’s largest hospital system and US Government contractor overseas.
Community Involvement:
Resides in Port Orange with his wife Lydia; have lived in the same home for 37 years.
Active participant in preserving the rural character of Tomoka Farms Village, fighting against development threats for over three decades.
Concerns for Volusia County:
Witnessed rapid growth, erosion of green spaces, and lagging infrastructure development causing traffic congestion and flooding issues.
Advocates for better management of taxes and fees with tangible results for residents.

Paid for by Mike Poniatowski for Volusia County Council at Larg

Educational Credentials:
Holds degrees in Emergency Medical Sciences, Management and Supervision, Political Science, and pursued advanced studies in Homeland Security, Emergency Management, and Public Health.
Certified EMT and Paramedic with numerous national and international credentials.
Vision and Commitment:
Pledges to represent citizens as his sole "special interest."
Promises fiscal responsibility, careful evaluation of development projects to prevent flooding, and protection of residents' homes and legacies.
Plans to address flooding issues with urgency and replace ineffective staff if necessary.
Personal Life:
Family-oriented with three daughters, three granddaughters, a brand new Grandson, pets, horses, and wildlife at home.
Enjoys outdoor activities like shooting sports and teaching community courses on active shooter survival and emergency response.
Closing Statement: Mike looks forward to serving Volusia County residents with dedication, listening to their concerns, and working tirelessly to improve their quality of life.

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This post is important to Spruce Creek Fly In, Tomoka Farms Village, and any other resident who loves our rural way of life.

The developer working on the proposal to develop the land known as Creek Crossing, has just filed updated plans with the county. The county website describes it as this: This is an amended rezoning request (case PUD-25-001) to increase the number of dwelling units from 64 to 130 on a total of 127.69 acres.

This land is pristine old growth oak forest that runs along 96 acres of Spruce Creek! This land will be cleared, drained, filled and built upon if this land is allowed to be rezoned!

It is VERY IMPORTANT that we send email letters to the Planning Department at Volusia County. The Planning Department is part of the process known as "Staff Review". They will count the letters of opposition as well as the letters in support. This information will be presented to the Planning and Land Development Regulation Commission (PLDRC) as well as the County Council.

There is an open Commenting Period from now till 7/31/25.

Even if you've previously sent a letter, please do so again.

The email address are:

planning@volusia.org

And to:

Email: sashley@volusia.org

Scott Ashley, AICP

Interim Planning Manager

Zoning Manager

And to:

Email: SShams@Volusia.org

Stephen Shams, AICP