VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — The battle over beach driving in Volusia County continued during a hearing Monday.
A judge in DeLand heard arguments from a group of citizens who want to put the issue on the 2016 ballot.
The judge made no decision on Monday. She chose to take the issue under advisement and told county officials and residents that she would let them know when she had made a final decision.
It was standing room only at the hearing. Those in favor of allowing driving on the beaches to continue wore yellow shirts that read "Save Beach Driving." County leaders want a judge to step in and stop a lawsuit filed by the group Let Volusia Vote.
"There are 43 miles on the beach in Volusia County and we have lost all but 17 of it, incrementally lopping off piece by piece," Volusia County resident Paul Zimmerman said.
The group has obtained the signatures necessary to win the right to put a referendum on the 2016 ballot, asking that voters be required to sign off on any beach changes.
The county is suing the group, claiming that the citizens' petition is unconstitutional.
Residents want a say on whether driving is allowed on certain areas of the beach.
"We think that the citizens of Volusia County should have a right and should have a say in this process," Zimmerman said. "Whether (the judge) decides in our favor or not, we will not stop here. We intend to continue the fight."
WFTV
