Resident asks whether city can stop Aldi conversion of Winn‑Dixie; staff says private sale not subject to city approval

Regina Huoney, a DeBary resident who gave her address as 9 Sanctuary Avenue, asked the council during the public‑comment period if anything could be done to stop Aldi from taking over the local Winn‑Dixie store. "Is there anything that can be done to stop Aldi's from taking that over?" Huoney asked.

City staff and the mayor responded that the sale and ownership transfer of a private store are matters between private parties and not subject to city approval. The mayor explained, "It's a private transaction. So cities don't get involved in private transactions." Staff added that if Aldi or any owner proposes building modifications they would have to submit plans through the city's development‑review process and follow the Florida Building Code; those permit filings are public and can be monitored on the city's website.

The city did not identify any ongoing code enforcement or permit action beyond noting that modifications would require permits. Huoney accepted the explanation and thanked the council.