Volusia County, FL — Volusia County Chair Jeff Brower is facing mounting criticism from former allies, environmental advocates, and community members following a series of public exchanges that have exposed deep fractures in local political trust. At the heart of the controversy is Brower’s recent endorsement of Melissa Thorne, a Republican candidate for Volusia County Council, and his apparent dismissal of Wendy Anderson, a longtime independent voice for environmental reform and civic engagement.
A Rift Between Allies
Wendy Anderson, a professor at Stetson University and a fixture in Volusia’s environmental advocacy circles, has supported Brower through two election cycles. Her consistent presence at county council meetings—where she has spoken on issues such as mandatory low-impact development, Chapter 72 protections, flooding mitigation, and water quality—has earned her respect among residents and policymakers alike. Anderson’s credibility was further affirmed when Brower himself proposed her appointment to the St. Johns River Water Management District board in 2022, a move documented in official council minutes.
Yet despite this history, Brower recently chose to elevate Melissa Thorne, whose Republican registration was confirmed through public voter records, prompting accusations of political opportunism and betrayal.
Catherine Pante’s Scathing Critique
Catherine Pante, a former campaign volunteer and vocal supporter of Brower, took to social media to express her disillusionment. In a sharply worded post, Pante accused Brower of “supporting party over people,” highlighting Anderson’s years of advocacy and loyalty to Brower’s environmental agenda.
“Wendy Anderson has shown up time and time again to support your efforts at council,” Pante wrote. “But because she has (I) for independent in front of her name and not an (R) for Republican, you choose to support and highlight someone else.”
Pante’s post went further, alleging a pattern of partisan favoritism. She referenced Brower’s past endorsement of Cindy Harris over Bryon White—another independent candidate known for his environmental stance—as evidence of a broader trend. “You use people from all parties just to get elected to office, then discard them for partisanship,” she wrote. “Your allegiance is to party and not the people of Volusia County.”
Brower’s Defense and Escalating Tensions
Brower responded to Pante’s criticism by questioning her understanding of Thorne’s political affiliation. “You don’t even know what party she is in!” he wrote. Pante quickly countered with voter registration documentation showing Thorne’s Republican status, intensifying the public dispute.
Brower then pivoted to policy, stating, “This is me letting people know there is a candidate who is NOT trying to get a charter amendment to PROTECT toilet to tape but, instead, is helping ban it in Volusia County.” His comment referred to the controversial practice of reusing treated wastewater for drinking purposes—a hot-button issue in local environmental circles.
Bryon White Weighs In
Bryon White, candidate for Volusia County Council and a vocal opponent of toilet-to-tap initiatives, joined the conversation with a pointed remark: “Jeff Brower, I support banning toilet to tap. Does that mean you support me?”
White’s comment underscored the frustration among grassroots advocates who feel Brower’s endorsements are increasingly driven by party affiliation rather than shared values or policy alignment.
Broader Implications for Volusia Politics
- Environmental credibility at stake: Brower’s past reputation as a nonpartisan champion of conservation is being questioned by those who once stood beside him.
- Council records vs. current endorsements: The documented support for Anderson in 2022 contrasts sharply with Brower’s current stance, raising concerns about political consistency.
- Grassroots disillusionment: Activists and former supporters are voicing concern that Brower’s leadership has shifted away from community-first principles.
As Volusia County continues to face critical challenges—from unchecked development and flooding to water quality and infrastructure—the political fallout from Brower’s endorsement decisions may have lasting consequences. The tension between loyalty, ideology, and environmental stewardship is now playing out in real time, with voters watching closely.