A South Florida architect and resort developer is proposing to build a 97-room resort and 10 walk-up town houses for short-term renters in Flagler Beach on the rectangular vacant acreage in the heart of city best known for its weekend farmers’ market, which has not been active in the past year. The resort, 35 feet tall at its height, would vastly change the complexion and skyline of downtown, though it would also be a return to form of sorts.
The 1.3-acre lot was once the site of the Flagler Beach Resort, its four-story stony stature lording it over sparse surroundings from 1925 to 1972, when it was demolished. But it was never a marvel of architecture, its boxy facade and slit-style windows evoking more of an institutional feel than a beach resort. The difference between then and now is a city–and a city center–that has grown substantially, with vacant lots the exception rather than the rule, as in the hotel’s heyday. But there’s no question as to the permitted use: the land is zoned for unrestricted use for hotels and motels.
Cooper City, Fla.-architect and resort developer Joseph Pasquale of Anjon Resort Homes submitted the application on Nov. 18 for a special exception to build the resort. Pasquale’s site plan proposes a 116-space underground parking garage. The resort would include an “oversize lobby” according to the plans, with an interior gallery, event room, restaurant, cafe, pool and sun and viewing decks. “The architectural template combines features exhibited in the charrette document and mixed-use district character area depicted in the Downtown Design Guidelines,” according to the application. Some two-way traffic would be changed to one-way, and parallel parking along the property would be changed to angled.
A traffic analysis produced for the developer anticipates a maximum of 702 additional weekday trips generated by the resort and its town houses. (The town houses would be let either as short-term rentals or as permanent rentals, and managed by the resort.) The analysis, however, pegs the average number of residents in the town houses at 2.72, the more conventional number for residential homes, rather than a higher number associated with short-term rentals.
The property is owned by Zoee and William Forehand. It is valued at just under $1 million, according to the Flagler County Property Appraiser, and is selling for more than that, Dennis Bayer, the Flagler Beach attorney representing the Forehands in the transaction, said today, though he was not authorized to be more specific for now. The property had not been actively listed though the Forehands had entertained some interest from various parties recently. Bayer said closing could take place within 60 days. Due diligence is ongoing. Zoee Forehand will be making a presentation at the hearing on Tuesday.
“I think it’ll be a huge lift for our downtown business as well as our tax base,” Bayer said. “I think it’ll be a game-changer as far as business in Flagler Beach, in a positive way. That used to be a hotel back in the day, it’s what used to bring a lot of the tourists and the visitors to our community.”
It is almost certain, however, that the proposal will draw fervent interest from residents and businesses as it goes before the city’s regulatory bioards in the next few weeks. The first public hearing is scheduled before the Planning and Architectural Review Board on Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. in the commission chambers at City Hall, 105 South 2nd Street. The City Commission holds its own hearing on the matter the evening of Thursday Dec. 10 at 6 p.m. or later, at the same location. The public response is already churning.
“From what I’m seeing on Facebook it’s pretty negative,” Jane Mealy, who chairs the city commission, said this morning. City Commissioner “Rick Belhumeur posted a notice about tomorrow night’s planning board meeting, there were some 30 comments I think, of the 30 I’d say about 25 of them were negative, but I’m pretty excited about it. I haven’t had time to study the plans yet because I was busy reading city managers’ applications.” (The city is in the process of hiring a new manager to replace the late Larry Newsom.)
There may develop somewhat of a dichotomy between residents and city officials, with residents tending to see the proposal more negatively and city officials and businesses more positively. “I hate predicting what local government is going to do on a local project. All the feedback we’ve had so far has been positive,” Bayer said, referring to city officials. “For the most part the feedback has been positive.” He said the development complies with rules, including environmental concerns: there are no wetlands on the parcel, and it drains properly. Flagler Beach’s planning and development staff is recommending approval of the development.
“I think that walking along on 100 towards A1A to see something pretty like that instead of an empty lot would be an improvement,” Mealy continued. “In the initial discussions I had with Larry Torino over a month ago”–Torino is the city’s planner–“because this was supposed to be on the last Planning Board meeting, he felt the developer was looking at the surroundings and trying to make it fit in with what’s already there, not making this huge imposing thing. It’ll be an huge change at first, because we’re used to this empty lot. But I think it’ll be an improvement.”
Veterans Park is the square just to the east of the parcel, fronting A1A and the ocean. In the old hotel days, the hotel controlled that piece of land as well, ensuring that guests had a direct view on the ocean. When the Forehands deeded the land for a park to the city, they reserved air rights over the park, ensuring that nothing would be built there that would block the view from the other parcel. That’s still in effect.
“We were never allowed to, as a city, build anything more than 18 inches high,” Mealy said. There’d previously been hopes for a bandshell at Veterans Park, but the plans were blocked because of the height restriction. “Apparently this new architect has designed some changes to the park as well, that I guess Zoee has gone along with, but not height wise. I think he’s going to put a bandshell in but a collapsible one, which will be wonderful for us when we get back to First Fridays, and then some designs with seats in circles instead of the old benches we have now, some kind of design like that. So he really is looking big picture.”
As in all land use matters, regulatory boards must follow what’s in their codes. They may not arbitrarily block a project if it doesn’t violate zoning and development rules. “The planning board is going to have to go by what the rules are,” Mealy said, and if parking, stormnwater, and height regulations are met, “I’d think they’d have to go along with it.”
The property is at the southwest corner of the intersection of State Road 100 (Old Moody Boulevard) and South Central Avenue. Anjon Resort Homes is a family-owned business that currently features two properties it’s developed in Flagler Beach, at 1205 North Central Avenue, and at 716 North Daytona Avenue.
The old hotel was built by Dana Fellows Fuquay and George Moody. It opened on July 4, 1925. Its most famous visitor was Charles Lindbergh, who touched down with his plane in Flagler Beach because of fog in 1931. He stayed the night at the hotel, which remained more the exception than the rule so far as resort development was concerned in Flagler.
“The very fact that Flagler Beach has lagged in resort development gives it a certain advantage for those low-budget vacationists who enjoy being near the ocean,” a New York Times article headlined “Flagler Beach Has More Sand Than People,” reported in 1969. “There are no chain motels and none that can be classified in the luxury class.” Lodging rates at the time were in the $4 to $10 a night, or $29 to $73 in inflation-adjusted dollars. A walk on the pier cost 65 cents, or $4.75 in today’s dollars, and monthly passes selling for $5.20, or $38 in current dollars (the city has clearly not kept up).
A second hotel was eventually operating a few blocks south of the resort–what had been the Luna Vista Apartments, named after George Moody’s daughter, on Oceanshore Boulevard and South Third Street. It was demolished in 1979.
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Steve Vanne says
Great more people just what we need….
GIBBIE says
Right this is so freaking sad… why can’t people just leave 😒 places alone. This lot could be another park or markets spot every day…. but nope let’s put monopoly buildings on it
Patty morris says
Ruining a natural simple little town with a huge structure..Keep it simple and natural as can be..
Sue says
It’s all about the money.
cgm says
Sad, love the open space, and view of the ocean coming over the bridge. First friday’s, Corvettes at the beach , pirates……etc all the activities that take place there.
Lin says
If the project complies with the present zoning, why would the developer need an “exception”?
BMW says
Oh, my, the comments are gonna be most entertaining. The owner’s of the unsightly lot are not going to continue to pay upkeep and taxes to appease the Naysayers, so we need to engage positively and grab the commercial tax revenue while the majority of the folks on the Commission are competent enough to navigate the process.
James M. Mejuto says
There’s nothing “unsightly” about that lot.
BMW says
It’s a sandy mess with zero aesthetic value.
Steve Vanne says
Ya he that drives a bmw…
BMW says
Your crystal ball is a bit foggy, I don’t drive a BMW.
Surfgod88 says
This will be an excellent upgrade to the heart of our town. That location has so much potential and I am glad that Zoee and Bill have found a potential buyer with goals that seem to align to our small town’s future. Since this land has the proper zoning and has for many years, progress is coming one way or another. I am interested to see how they tackle the underground parking lot with its worthy goal of not burdening our already limited downtown parking resources.
Hopefully optimistic!
James M. Mejuto says
Surfgod88: So, I guess any vacant land is good reason to develop ?!
To hell with green spaces and town celebrations and farmers’ market.
And . . . ” this will be an excellent upgrade to the heart of our town ? ? ? !
James M. Mejuto
Surfgod88 says
There has not been a Farmer’s Market in a few years. Can’t blame the landowners for wanting to sell at a profit and good on them for working with a potential buyer that has a forward looking vision for the land in question. Farmer’s Market booth rentals will not pay the bills, it is going to have to be something more substantial. Would you prefer a single entity like is being planned with the hotel and townhouses or would you prefer about 36 different shops which would only exacerbate the parking issues further? That land is vacant only because the former hotel was demolished many years ago and is currently more dirt than greenery. Prior use and past history is a good gauge of the future and in this case lends itself to a hotel type use.
JimBob says
Jesus! Talk about destroying ambience! Poor Walt’s will start carrying Cristal champagne and pushing $30 designer martinis. Sad.
Jaybee says
Have the considerations such as the percolation percentage loss been answered? Was it Irma that flooded parts seldom or never seem to flood? Plus with all the single family new builds in the past 5 years has anyone else even addressed this? Is there any limiting that loss? And that’s only one aspect of the amount and type of questions that should be asked. Plus the welcoming sight of the beach as you cross the bridge will be gone, and not for the better. Next will be other developers buying the stores and rebuilding to the same height. Then it will truly be just another beach town. Same as the rest.
E, ROBOT says
Underground parking???? That’ll be quite the engineering feat. LoL
Flagler Beach Resident says
The Aliki has underground parking.
Lance Carroll says
Aliki is substantially higher in elevation than the Farmers Market lot. Water table is very close to ground elevation at Farmers Market lot. Please do not take my word for the water table elevation at said property? Take a shovel to that spot and dig a hole? I bet you run into ground water after a few shovel’s full. I am only guessing….
Ramone says
It’s unlikely, given the existing lot’s elevation and the water table, they’ll be able to put the garage underground. My guess is the garage will be largely above grade, especially down on the S. Daytona side. Since they measure height at the front door (on the Central Ave side), it will be under the 35 height maximum. From the drawings i’ve looked at, the height from the elevator tower down to the street in S. Daytona will probably be about 50 ft or so. So yeah, it’s not going to be underground.
David says
Your wrong… parking meters are in the works so sad..I was the 3rd house built in Palm Coast…was so peaceful then. Look at the mess now… gonna be more trash 🗑️ on our beaches if that happens…. shame on you Forehand… your Mother wouldn’t allowed it.
Lance Carroll says
It seems that Trez is right in the middle of this entire thing. Cheer her on Bernie…
John Longden says
So Flagler Beach can look like Daytona? It will destroy Flagler Beach
dan beasley says
Just what Flagler Beach needs, More Traffic. NOT
Kathy says
This “building” will not be sitting on an empty lot. That is a park, a beautiful green space, a gathering place, a concert area that families, residents, and visitors all enjoy. Please don’t take that away from our little beach town. Please.
FlaglerLive says
The park is a separate, unaffected property to the East.
Ramone says
I wouldn’t say the property to the East is unaffected. If you read the agenda packet, they’re planning to use the Veteran Park property for two Stormwater vaults. I’m not sure how big these are or how it will impact the site. Obviously, with the Hotel taking up most of the land on the principal site, there’s no way to contain all stormwater (on site) which is required by most LDC’s. So they have to use the donated site to compensate.
Jaybee says
Who owns the dock north of the bridge with only 2 houseboats on it? Asking because if it’s the city it was a terrible waste of tax dollars.
And tax dollars would go into the new building. How much will we be giving the builder for ” improvements” ?
Alexander Spiller says
It is amazing how these sort of things always seem to come up right after an election. I remember meeting with a developer and a County Commissioner interrupted the meeting and told the developer that he would approve his project after the election and that he was going to pretend to be against it.
Sandy says
I worry more for the impact on the mom and pop hotels. Probably will be a boost to the businesses in the area but it will change the feel of Flagler Beach.
James M. Mejuto says
Why is it always how business feels about it ?
Without a vibrant beach, you have no town!
Think about how green spaces positively affect the town’s businesses.
Keith A says
Buy it with your money and keep it green. It’s private property that’s is zoned for a hotel and had a hotel on it for more than 50 years. Your house was an empty lot before it was built you could always knock it down and turn it into an empty lot again.
oldtimer says
Oh boy, more development, wonder where the parking will be?
Keep Flagler Beautiful says
The article says the parking will be underground, to which I say, good luck with that! Flood much?
Rick Belhumeur says
It’s too early on to say if I would support these specific plans… However, I like the concept of replacing the previously existing Hotel with a modern amenity. With its shops and restaurant along the sidewalks of Rt 100 and S. Central, it would help expand and vitalize that area of downtown. The City of Flagler Beach can definitely use some new, high end, short term lodging within our commercial areas.
James M. Mejuto says
This is unbelievable . . . who cares about the Hotel ?!
Flagler Beach is a ‘sleepy ole town’ that doesn’t need another hotel or
underground parking lot.
E, ROBOT says
Just when you thought it couldn’t get worse … . :-(
James M. Mejuto says
A sorrowful mess Flagler Beach has gotten itself into and yet in the middle of beach
restoration.
You have to wonder what is going on !
The weekend farmers’ market was eliminated, probably because of taxes and you have a
cabal of 13 property owners who stand clearly in the face of progress . . . all for a profit.
Now, the Beach’s political ‘leaders’ want to install a building complex in the heart of the town
where the farmers’ market used to be.
I think the question facing the Flagler Beach: Do you want to be another Daytona Beach!
Emmanuel Ramirez says
I think enough is enough, we have plenty of Hotels and Motels in the area. As it is this is a busy intersection , with that amount of rooms and town homes is just going to be crazy . Stop the madness , let us preserve some of the natural beauty that brought us all here. I do not think the residents in this area want to compete with SOBE or any of the busy beach towns in the state. We love Flagler Beach the way it is.
Owner says
We, the home owner of Flagler Beach totally love our city also and we do want this.
Blonde But Not Dumb says
I too am a homeowner and I DO NOT WANT THIS! Please do not use them term “we” because you don’t speak for me.
Skibum says
Where I come from (WA State), cities are required to designate a certain amount of open (green) space such as parks, etc. as development is made in order to provide adequate recreation and leisure, not just business clutter. The existing park in Flagler Beach is in an ideal location, directly across from the ocean, and has provided needed space for many varied local activities including the farmer’s market. Where else in Flagler Beach is there a nice park with a front row view of the ocean? Nowhere. It would be a loss for all who love a beautiful open space with ocean views if a 3-story hotel and town homes are allowed to be built in that spot. I’m not against development, but the city should be more proactive in ensuring that residents and visitors alike have adequate and inviting recreational space that is not forced to take a back seat when every developer comes calling, or there will someday be no open space left, just wall-to-wall businesses, too much traffic congestion, and over-tourism which has killed so many scenic places. I hope Flagler Beach, which has always been a local favorite, does not end up like so many other over-developed areas that didn’t plan well and lost in the long-term.
Jaii M. Hein, son of Photographer/Teacher Theodore C. says
Read the whole article, green space is already in place by the forehands, Bernie Frassrand made sure of this. He was a developer himself and ecologist also.mi knew him personally. Land gets bought and sold. This space was a hotel, I actually worked in before I got drafted in 1969. It had a lower business level, similar to underground parking specs. I am sure Zoe has looked at the track record of the developer. And thankfully in the 80’s there was foresight to limit height due to fire dept issues. I was a volunteer also as a younger man. I grew up in Flagler, 1956-1999. Clean progressive development doesn’t hinder, looking back in time maybe there should be maximum square foot limits to land use, for the green trees to grow on. The land in front has Arian rights. So the park cannot r ever will be built on…. Period. I miss Flagler beach, I now live in Costa Rica, land use issues in Nosara are happening. Overdevelopmemt with no infrastructure of sewage. So. I remember Flagler as a sleepier town, 600 people in winter. As there here is n example of many people visit and want the lifestyle of relaxation. It has to be regulated, and if developer qualifies on all avenues. It will happen and by looking at these plans, it will benefit.
Happening now says
Yes it was peaceful before ITT decided to build. It was the beginning of the end as Palm Coast thinks the Ocean is their s. Locals cannot park. Overcrowded,and now with Gardens, hotel will welcome addition.
Topaz has garage, now turned into underground apartments.
Lance Carroll says
Jaii: evidently you removed yourself from Flagler Beach. Come take a look at it now?
Jaii says
Where are you now…development happens and if in positive a regulated ways it helps economies. Like your biz.
BLS says
OK here we go. Let’s take one of the few remaining truly unique “small town” residential communities located on the ocean and start transforming it into an Ormond Beach or Daytona Beach. It is not needed or wanted by the residents in the area. We like it the way it is. A much better use would be for the town to purchase it and turn it into a nice park along with the existing park that would be a benefit to all residents. I would bet that a lot of residents would agree to support a fund raising drive to do this and partially cover the cost. Shortly after this project, there would be many more in the downtown area to rip and replace existing properties and there would go our downtown area. A project like this could easily be put on land on the other side of the intracoastal within Flagler which would benefit the tax base without disrupting present residential base.
Keep Flagler Beautiful says
Flagler Beach is unique — period. There is not other community like it in Florida, and part of its charm is the walkable, accessible park right in the heart of town. A hotel and townhouses in that location would be an atrocious idea. It would change the footprint and feel of the town forever. Does every bit of green space have to be gobbled up by out-of-town developers? We taxpayers have a say in this. There are plenty of other locations where such a hotel could be built, and I for one would not object to it, but right there in the heart of town where the traffic is already WAY too congested? No!
Jim says
I couldn’t agree with you more. This is a bad idea. The secret to our little oasis is NOT building crowded all-purpose developments like this On a little 1 or 2 acre lot! This should remain open-space as you point out – esp given it’s location! I hope this gets defeated.
Carlos iovannitti says
HELL NO
You can’t replace the existing beauty. It is an awesome ample view of the ocean. The farmers market is now the JEWEL of the area. Let the builder find another place.
Owner says
Do you visit often? The farmers market has been gone for over a year.
E. Hoffa says
Here comes ‘little’ Daytona Beach! Note: All empty and run-down hotels on A1A!
Jimbo99 says
If it’s South Florida involved, Flagler Beach is on it’s way to becoming South Beach, Miami, FL. Laugh at this all you want, because 1 does not = South Beach, but that’s the way South Beach started. I recall the late 1990’s when I moved to Miami myself. Shortly after W Bush became POTUS in early 2000’s, South Beach really did a total remodeling there. Overpopulated before & even more so afterward. Some changes for the better, others for the worse. Flagler Beach really needs more attractions for increasing it’s revenues, not seeing how this does that. Short term rental condos ?
Linda Diedrich says
Heartbreaking.
Cindy says
The beginning of us looking like Daytona!!!
palmcoaster says
There is not enough room for that project. Parking is already a problem in FB as is now. Imagine a hotel and town houses in that small parcel just one block by one block size? Will they dig for underground parking on a water front area that floods with the hurricanes surge? We have an A1A in FB about to become like the Old A1A in Marineland and these city commissioners planning on giving special exceptions to satisfy avaricious commercialism ?Are they out of their mind? What is FB city councilwoman Mealy thinking? Sorry for the owners ( that I know are very popular and well liked in FB) but should not be approved any “special exceptions”. Maybe they made a bad investment buying that property to start with just like the developers in Palm Coast buying the Matanzas Golf Course and the Palm Harbor Golf Course driving range and golfers parking! These are like any other bad investments sometimes happens as the pursuit of greed can be often costly
Lorin Beatty says
this would be the first of many if allowed. Other landowners will be quick to follow .We need to keep our small town appeal and not turn it into a Daytona like rathole . I think the town should be encouraged to buy the property
palmcoaster says
Totally agree with you Lorin. Hope many affected FB neighbors and Palmcoasters that love FB attend this meeting. Avaricious commercialization of our quality of life and safety needs to end.
Blonde But Not Dumb says
I agree! When I was a kid my mom had a saying… “You’re trying to slip me the thin edge of the wedge!” … and THIS is a perfect example.
Dawn Smith says
All this talk about development, John Anderson hwy., Town Center, now Farmers market. NO mention of emergency evacuation routes, our the water tablet level.
Mary Mills says
We moved to Flagler Beach 4 years ago. We have loved the small town, old Florida vibe. Veterans Park is the hub, the heartbeat of our community. Our Rotary Club sells funnel cakes and other treats at every First Friday. The town gathers to enjoy local musical events and socializing. It is the site of the annual Pirate Invasion and so many other community events. If a hotel usurps that space, Flagler Beach will lose the sense of community, the very heartbeat of our town. I sure hope the commissioners will take this into account when making this momentous decision.
Karen Joiner says
Veterans park will be untouched. You have the wrong property in mind.
Steve says
Move the road a block to the west and make the whole Ex existing road a 10 block park to the South.. Forget the beach restoration it wont work anyway. A waste of time energy resources money. I dont care for the Hotel but its not my property . Now two new development s in FB. Enjoy it while you can. It will never be the same. I watched Jupiter grow for 20 years but one thing they did was kept the integrity of the Ocean front intact.
Outsider says
It has nothing to do with what the people want; it has everything to do with what the government wants and needs: money! What is wrong with a quaint beachside town? That’s what attracted and keeps many here. It willall be blown up So the government bureaucracy can grow and feed itself.
Blonde But Not Dumb says
No special exceptions. Period. End of discussion. I understand that unless the city or county buy the property for civic events SOMETHING is going on that corner. Developers must stay within existing regulations.
Dedee says
I moved away from Fl twenty years ago, I recently moved back..what a shock from Orlando (the city beautiful)formerly.now looks like a third world nightmare of scaffolding and destroyed neighborhoods. Winter Park, once a beauty.now congested dump..sitting in streets to eat, really? Now, a sweet beach town intent on doing the same….. “they paved paradise and put up a parking lot”…. why? Whats next a Walmart, Waawaa, Dollar Store, beachside?? Please, please reconsider..the building will look like cheap housing, not anything like the rendering. Seriously.
Deede says
And short term condos, please…transientsand crime..just ask any town..start with The Villages, short term housing, invaded with junkies, thefts, and pedos. Truth, adult children who cannot live anywhere on their own. You dont want that, or do you.
Only Me says
I hope the Officials in Flagler Beach turn down this developer that will ruin the beauty of Flagler Beach. Tell them to take their plans elsewhere. I hope the residents go to every meeting about this and voices their oppositions.
Mary E. Mills says
We moved to Flagler Beach 4 years ago. We love the small town, old Florida vibe. We really enjoy the community. Our Rotary Club sells funnel cakes and other treats at the First Friday gatherings each month. This is a community side event featuring local musical performances and food and fun. The
veterans park is the site of this, and so many family friendly community gatherings. The Annual Pirate Invasion and so many other whole town events would have no home if a hotel is built there
If we lose that space, we lose the very heartbeat of our town. I sure hope the commissioners will take this into account when deciding this issue.
Kathy says
This news makes me want to cry. When I moved here fourteen years ago I was attracted to the 50’s vibe and the small town feel. It reminded me of the atmosphere I grew up in and was why I made the decision to move here from Ohio. I watched as the crowds have grown and wondered how long it would take for some developer (from South Florida of course) would come in and ruin, yes ruin what makes Flagker Beach so unique. This along with the huge development being planned along John Anderson highway will change Flagler Beach and what it represents forever. How sad to see this happen. What can we do? As usual the developer and whatever exceptions they are asking for will, along with our elected officials will get their way, again.
Lanie says
Everyone in Flagler Beach need to show up to the meetings they will have to discuss this idea. If you want to stop this you all have to show up. Tell the city officials that you absolutely oppose this. If enough residents show up in protest maybe they will listen. The most important thing you can all do is make every meeting.
It will change everything if they build there. It will not be good.
Red says
I have a great idea oh, let’s put up a ferris wheel, and maybe one of those slingshot rides. While we’re at it, let’s permit a few more tattoo parlors and maybe a strip joint or two. There is a reason people live in and visit Flagler Beach. It’s because it’s what’s very little left of old Florida that’s still somewhat quaint and charming and a good place for families. It has a comfortable, small-town feel that is attractive, as opposed to the wannabe Glitz and glamour Las Vegas that Daytona seems to want. In my opinion, it would be a travesty supposed to go to the longtime residents of Flagler Beach who have worked so hard to keep it small, original, quaint, and have that comfortable small town feel to it, to allow this development. And please, are you serious about an underground parking garage that close to the beach when we have had difficulty with Storm surges that wiped out A1A? This baffles me. Far too much development for a parcel of that size. I’m very disappointed in those public officials please support this.
Concerned Citizen says
Out of all of this what interests me the most is this.
Just how the hell do they plan on putting in underground parking at that location? Our water table is pretty shallow in most parts. I mean come on you don’t see many basements around here do you? And that close to the ocean? A good Nor’Easter or close call with a Hurricane will make every bit of that parking unusable. Then where will you put people.
Watch out Funky Pelican and Pier. They will grab up every bit of that parking. Flagler Beach won’t say no when money starts changing hands.
Brandon says
I think it’s a wonderful plan! Let’s think of FB as the Key West of the First Coast. Funky but maintain the quaintness of the small town with a little place for visitors to enjoy our little town to everyone’s benefit! Full occupancy of 97 rooms assuming 2 per room equals 194 people, times 3 equals 291 people, 10 townhouses time 4 equals 40 people. The restaurants and shops would love this! Our elected city representatives know how to keep uncontrollable growth in check. Don’t you want your property taxes go down and property values go up?
Janet Cowan says
I used to live in Flagler Beach for 2 years. Even before living there, I would always come to this special place. Flagler is unique as it is. It doesn’t need this development in town, I think it would ruin this beautiful beach town.
Lance Carroll says
I doubt that Bernie and Trez would go along w this proposal.
Jaii says
Who is? In the family agreeing.
V Jaramillo says
My husband and I recently sold our Flagler Beach condo we owned for 12 years. But we’re staying in Flagler Beach as new homeowners of a beach house. We fell in love with Flagler Beach as it’s one of the last remaining ‘Ole Florida small beach towns’ with mainly all local businesses which we gladly support. Understand both sides of the argument but in this case side with the people over profit. green space provides a better quality of life for the residents which may bring more future residents rather than short term visitors that will tax our road infrastructure and traffic among others. Residents look after their community, visitors not so much. County should research other creative ways to raise needed tax revenues without negatively impacting its residents and the people you serve.
Chris S. says
What farmer’s market? It hasn’t been one for over a year; most vendors moved to St Augustine.
If the height requirements of 32 ft would have been observed there would not be the 2 albatrosses (ALIKI and Nautilus;170 and 110 ft respectively) built in the early 1980’s. THESE 2 buildings destroyed the “smallness” of Flagler Beach.
If you folks drive north to Jacksonville you see huge homes built on dunes and break walls; they will wash into the sea in a few years.
Like it or not over 300,000 people will be moving to Fla every year and then Miami Beach folks will migrate north as the seas rise.
I’m sure the new short term renters will appreciate Finn’s during what remains of bike week(s). The average age of bikers is pushing 60+ and in declining eyesight; that current business has to be replaced with cleaner, quieter tourism.
Yes, I enjoy walking to the ocean in 760 steps and to my boat dock in 55 steps. Cleaning up downtown with proper buildings will not change my walks, ocean view or breakfast at Java Joint!
Just sayin’🍸
BMW says
Chris, I don’t know you, but you seem to be one of the few people on this feed who is thinking rationally. The article clearly states the parcel is privately owned and rests adjacent to the park. Oh, my, goodness, the Pirates who invade our streets once a year are fully protected (like that is the type of revenue stream from which a City can depend). Our City cannot survive on the backs of those who pay property taxes. The budget operates on such a commercial tax deficit we can’t manage the aging sewer system. Most ironic for those who claim to love the environment. Like in most instances, the Developer is being demonized as the monster coming from the South. He has been active in our City for years and has a soft approach in placing homes on lots so they don’t overpower the streetscape. In the same vein, the owner’s of the building site have every legal right to do so and are NOT some out of town boogie men trying to destroy the City. When folks say, “It’s going to be another Daytona”, really, how is that humanly possible? There are zero correlations between the physical components of Ormond, Daytona, Orlando or South Florida. Or, the traffic is so bad. Now that is a head turner of a statement. All simply emotional responses to inevitable change. It is imperative for the future of our City to clean up the main artery and work toward meeting the financial needs of the City. You are 100% correct, people coming to the hotel, spending money and going home will not affect the routine you so nicely described in your post.
Chris S. says
I own 3 of them (BMWs). Maybe that’s why I’m rational😂
The NIMBY attitude exists in every generation. I’m sure in the 1930’s or whenever the natives were upset when A1A was cut thru everyone’s back yards. As I mentioned the high rises in the 1980’s, and now the growth of oceanfront construction. Right now the highest asking sale price of an empty oceanfront lot is a whopping $365,000 on FB’s south side. The die has been cast and with few exceptions FB will stay “small” since 95% of the construction is done with. I remind my wife Flagler Beach is a barrier island that can disappear in a flash; It may be ugly but I’ll take the concrete seawall protecting Marina Bay for the time being.
https://www.nytimes.com/1986/12/14/travel/florida-s-grand-old-highway.html
This 1986 NYT article will add some flavor of A1A that was built 80+ years ago. (especially FB descriptions)
that really hold true today.
Lance Carroll says
One must realize the highrise buildings, you speak of, Chris, were built before the height limit was put in place. Obviously the change in regulation stopped further construction of building above 35’…. and, may I add: Thank you, Jack Kelly for your devotion to limiting building height in Flagler Beach during your time serving our community. Check it out Chris? I aint guessing…
Dan Kelly says
Thanks for recognizing that fact Lance ! As a resident and homeowner for 45 years in Flagler bch. , I will not take a side in this debate publicly. It seems this town has changed so much , and not always for the better it seems. Big money is always going to win period! One day I will be taxed to the point I will have to rent my house or sell! Im not looking forward to that day!
The Voice Of Reason says
Flagler Beach is a rare gem in a state that has raped 80-90% of the coastline. A city where one can drive most of it with clear views of the ocean. It is small beach town that barely exists anymore. The city/county should buy the property with public money to create a park. The 94 hotel rooms would overrun the pier area like a cruise ship impacting Key West or as dreamed of St Augustine. The 10 town homes would end up being an airbnb nightmare of the highest order. Party houses of overcrowded, drunk, rowdy, inconsiderate ill behaved mostly young people that would turn downtown Flagler Beach into a high crime, dangerous neighborhood. Airbnb is a plague upon all that is decent while never being considered a asset to any community where it sprouts up.
Old Sea Dog says
2045 will see the Sea Level 15ft higher then it is now. Each spring, summer and fall are now 12 degrees hotter then 20 years ago. The heat is only going to get worse. Yes, millions more people will be moving to Florida in the coming years………. I enjoyed Flagler Beach for 35 years and now its time to move to cooler pastures. House is up for sale now while the housing market is excellent for selling homes. Farewell old friend and Thanks for the memories .
Bob says
How about that ‘south Florida’ developer stay in south Florida. Not every inch of the FL coastline has to be littered with horrid eyesores. Flagler is quaint, beautiful and mostly quiet and should remain so. The beaches we enjoy are fantastic without crowds of idiot visitors who have no respect for it. I don’t care what it used to be. Times have changed and Flagler is no place for a hotel, a giant eyesore that will ruin the landscape and cause the area to be clogged up more so than it already is.
TR says
Just what we need. NOT!!!! Ever since they redid A1A south and made the speed limit 25 mph. I only went down there once to check it out. It’s the dumbest thing they did by putting in the middle drainage or whatever that is. People like to go up and down A1A and ride along the beach, I get it. But if you want to look at the ocean then stop and park and get out and look. Now add this dumb idea and add more people to drive like they don’t care and they are the only ones on the road. I would prefer you park and get out of my way because my time is worth a lot and I have places to go in Flagler and don’t want to drive behind someone looking at the beach while driving. Can’t wait for someone to drive their car right over the concert curb and land in the center drainage ditch. Wait for that traffic jam.
Jane Gentile-Youd says
Flagler County should buy this property and ask the state for a land preservation grant, because this land for many of us ; IS Flagler Beach … ..The focal point for all kinds of yummy events, festivals, first Fridays. But then Flagler County Tourism Department has been too busy spending tourism dollars foolishly ( my opinion) as well as allocating lots of Cares Grant Business funds to county buddies .. when would anyone in the County find the time to buy such a now almost ‘historic’ site for all of us when they are too busy buying prefab barns out west, and sick contaminated buildings ( and utilities).
Knock knock anyone home? The County pisses away everyone’s money on useless dumps )… Bings Landing – oh yes – a beautiful intercoastal fronting park the county bought with preservation funds but half of that has been given away to a business which is just about ‘freeloading’.
The sellers have a right to sell their land to anyone they want – if the property’s zoning designation has never been rescinded for non-use I believe that public passion , including my own, to keep it charming and open forever, is not an option unless ‘We The People ask our county officials to scrape together their ‘tourist tax goldmine’ of funds together with a state grant and pay fair market value to the sellers.
Flagler Beach can’t afford to buy it but the county’s tourism tax dollars and some help from our state Senator and Rep can make a park forever. How do you all see it?
BeachHater says
Outsider nailed it. FB is broke, no money. Only two (2) ways out of debt. Make more or spend less. Why must we ALWAYS make more? Why not demand FB stop spending. FB Police is a HUGE waste of money, so sub that out to Sheriff. Reduce City Regs and staff. Cut wages. Cut Bennie’s. Cut Commissioner incomes. STOP SPENDING. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle never applies to our government.
marlee says
Why not just pave all of Floriduh?!
Beach Community Lover says
So sad. Money vs. Nice Beach Town. Moved here to enjoy a non-commercial environment where people experienced a slower, healthier, beach life. I understand the development of more inland properties of Palm Coast due to the Boomer influx, however, please keep the Flagler Beach area the same as why I moved here. Resorts and Townhouses will ruin the small town feel of Flagler Beach and that is what people love about our community.
Dennis C Rathsam says
FOOLS…Have these hotel folks seen Flagler Beach in the summer? U cant park now, U cant get in to the many great resteraunts here because of all the people,unless you wait…sometimes over a hour. Now the powers that be want to add to this clusterfuck. When do we the people….have a say? PS Wheres all the water gonna come from in this hotel? FOOLS…The future ‘s not as bright, as it used to be.
Land of no turn signals says says
All this talk about improving the tax base.After it’s all finished I’m going to watch my yearly tax bill be cut in half.
Karen Joiner says
I think this hotel complex will be a wonderful addition to our city. It will give Flagler Beach the anchor it needs for our downtown. The design is well done and meets all requirements. Instead of being so negative, think about how a nice new hotel will improve this town and help our merchants. The Mom and Pop hotels here are aging badly…or they are sitting there rotting like the Lazy Hours trashy motel that I can see from my home. I have friends and family that want to come here but they need a good hotel option. And remember that Zoee and William Forehand have to taxes on this property as it sits vacant. We have permanently lost the farmers market and this land sits idle. It’s privately owned property. It’s not part of the downtown park. And you cant use it…since it’s a trespassing issue. I’m totally in favor of the hotel complex. If you are against this project, perhaps you should buy the property yourself. ..At over 1Million dollars ..and the pay the taxes.
John Longden says
This mess will kill Flagler Beach for the residents. It will turn our town into another tacky resort. The only people for this is developers.
Buildit. says
I agree that the project would be a good addition. People complaining must be oblivious to the run down rentals and motels along A1A.
Blonde But Not Dumb says
Perhaps people who know the owners might approach them to find out what it would take for the citizens of Flagler Beach to purchase the lot. The Go Fund Me campaign to pay the holdouts for the beach restoration was successful so why couldn’t we do the same for this?
BabaGwaGwa says
ever notice how Flagler Beach doesn’t have any hi-risers? theres only one. let it stay that way. Our quaint little beach town shouldn’t be blotted out by unsightly condos and hotels. sheesh, I’m only in highschool and even we care about our beach.
deb says
Can’t wait. Modernization of a defunct little town. Just think more bars, more traffic and more issues. People in this county and in Flagler Beach seem to forget, its all about the money. Taxpayers will just have to get over it and deal with it. What could go wrong.
Only Me says
If the owner of this property is in such need to sell the property the City of Flagler Beach needs to step up to the plate and keep their beach town special as it is now and buy that property.
RandomGuy21 says
You naysayers are a trip! You built/bought/rented your home on what was once vacant land. The property owners have every right to seek to develop the property however they choose, so long as it is compliant with various rules and regs. I am always amazed at those who move here, build a home and then bitch when someone else does the same thing. If you think the city needs more space, then pool your money and buy some land and preserve it. That lot is privately owned, they had the forethought to buy it, hold onto the investment and now intend to cash in, good for them.
John Longden says
I’m guessing most of the people who are for this project are short time residents who wished they lived in a bigger town. Maybe you should spend some time on the beach side in Daytona and see what big hotels do for a community
FB Resident says
No John Longden. Born and raised in Flagler Beach and still here. Don’t you speak for me or assume anything. I’m not a fool like some of you who expect money trees to start funding our city.
James M. Mejuto says
re: John Longden: You are entirely correct. Visit no-solution communities like Dayton Beach. It is a
wasteland that chose to go with land developers and now they see the errors of their ways.
As I understand, the only correct solution would be : Flagler Beach purchases the land for
community use and getting the farmers’ market back into operation.
James M. Mejuto
A Land Remembered says
The irony of a town named after Henry Flagler being against a hotel development…..
Northern Influence says
Ever seen Flagler College??? One of the most expensive hotels at the time. Built by who? Henry Flagler. Where is the irony??
A Land Remembered says
Yes, it’s a beautiful campus. The irony is that Henry Flagler would likely be a proponent of this development, and would actually probably want it to be bigger, and yet the town named after him is against it. If I need to break it down more, I can. Let me know.
Northern Influence says
Not all of us. Just a few who can’t tolerate change.
mark101 says
All of these closed minded locals, that I would bet 95% are not even born in Fla, but moved from PA, Jersey, New York, MASS, CT, Ohio etc..so why are you complaining. This hotel will house more people like you that can’t afford to buy the land and build or remodel a home like you did. You are here, stop being closed minded. Flaglers little secret is out has been since Marketing has started. Bring on the tax dollars.
Happy to Be Here says
It always amazes me when I read these comments from those that don’t want change to come to “their” little beach town. The fact that They also mention in their posts that when they came to town 10-15 years ago from Ohio, Pennsylvania, NY, or wherever in the Great White North and moved here that they weren’t contributing to the same thing that they now see as a problem is just overly hypocritical. Who are they to complain?
This is a parcel of land that is privately owned by folks that have been in this community forever, run businesses in the town, and have a right to develop, and or sale their privately owned lot to whoever they feel like! The developer seems to have done their homework and is proposing development that is completely within the existing codes for the land and is not trying to pull anything over on anybody. Remember that this lot was once a hotel and was never renowned for anything else! So, all you invaders from elsewhere trying to tell the natives what they can or can’t do with their own personal property, just shut up and go back up I-95 to wherever you came from and tell those folks how you want it done!
honey please says
unique town, think of something else to put there. we dont want to be a big town . we like neighbors and friends and cool small pubs. smaller groups on the beach. keep most of traffic across the bridge. i know paying taxes is tough maybe a fund to help pay taxes for one year and see how things go.
Elizabeth says
I don’t live in Flagler, but I’m close. I’m so sad to see our beautiful beach going the way of Daytona. Whatever puts money in the pockets of the big wigs I guess…
FB Resident says
I cannot believe how completely brainless some commenters are… likely not tax paying Flagler Beach residents either. Two things… a hotel used to be here and it is already zoned for that use – there is nothing wrong with this project as long as guidelines are followed and from what I understand, the developer has been decent so far. I’m not a fan of development either, but if it’s zoned for that use, it’s not the responsibility of our elected leaders to attempt blocking it and get involved in a costly lawsuit that the city cannot afford and won’t win. Secondly, this city needs additional tax base. Period. We cannot survive as a city off the backs of residents and residents alone. Don’t like paid parking? Not sure what to tell you on that. I can tell you that when I walk on the beach in the mornings, the mass amount of trash and other personal belongings that “visitors” leave on the beach is disgusting. Maybe this will block some of the trash that doesn’t know how to respect our city from coming here. The maintenance of our city and beaches won’t pay for themselves. Our taxes are vastly more expensive, and deservedly so, when compared to other areas of the county. That said, future special assessments will occur if we don’t as a city plan ahead. “Sleepy old Florida” sounds great until that city suddenly has bills to pay. We can still maintain the heart of what Flagler Beach is about. That heart has nothing to do with never evolving ever.
Robert Neill says
There are many of us that live here in Flagler Beach that welcome such a project. The “old charm” is getting tired and trashy looking.
cpp says
Not sure where you get “Sleepy old Florida” with 21.993 million. The population could potentially surpass 26 million in 2030, driven by immigration from both Northern US states and other countries. Sleepy Florida is 3rd largest in population.
So there is NO Sleepy Old Florida unless you go up to the north Fl boundaries above G-Ville and Perry Fl area.
Trump/Covid 2020 says
My sources tell me G6 Hospitality LLC is in negotiations to purchase 7 lots just south of S 25th st between Oceanshore and S Central planning to build a Motel 6 with 150 rooms.
Keep Flagler Beautiful says
What a nightmare. Flagler Beach can barely sustain the current amount of effluent and traffic. So sick of out-of-towners stealing our town for a quick profit. Commissioners: take heed — we do not want this, and you are paid by us to do what is best for our town. That does NOT include a Motel 6.