The Palm Coast City Council narrowly approved the first reading of a proposal to expand an ICI Homes development from 57 to 71 units in Cypress Knoll, west of Easthampton Boulevard and south of Eric Drive. The 3-2 decision reopens a 2012 legal settlement despite strong neighborhood opposition. Final approval is conditional on the developer maintaining larger lot sizes and providing clear public benefits to the surrounding community.
Economy
The Last Gallery Standing: How GOLA’s Crafty Art Defies the Odds in Flagler Beach
Amid a shrinking local art scene, Marge and Ted Barnhill’s Gallery of Local Art (GOLA) remains a vital hub for creators in Flagler Beach. Now expanding into their adjacent restaurant, GOLA recently featured photographer Sayre Berman’s striking metal prints. Berman’s work, ranging from iconic rock stars to coastal landscapes, seeks to evoke deep, tactile emotions.
Palm Coast and County Endorse Vague $2.1 Million Animal Shelter Plan and Joint Animal Control Services
Palm Coast and Flagler County officials have endorsed a plan to build a $2.1 million animal shelter and consolidate animal control services. This move aims to eliminate reliance on the Flagler Humane Society but faces significant financial hurdles. While the task force suggests a fall groundbreaking, officials raise concerns over missing operational cost data and competing budget priorities. The transition could significantly increase animal control expenses for the region.
Flagler County Triggers Conflict Resolution Over Flagler Beach Annexation as Both Sides Seek to Avoid Lawsuit
The Flagler County Commission voted 4-1 to initiate a formal conflict-resolution process against Flagler Beach regarding the Summertown annexation. Despite Commissioner Andy Dance’s efforts to use a less confrontational agreement to avoid the appearance of litigation, the majority opted for a legal framework to protect the county’s rights. The dispute involves infrastructure and environmental concerns, notably drawing accusations of “bad faith” from the City Attorney regarding the county’s past approval of the same development.
Florida Lawmakers Advance Measure to Circumvent Minimum Wage for ‘Trainees’
A Florida House subcommittee approved a bill allowing trainees, interns, and work-study participants to waive their rights to the state’s $15 minimum wage in favor of the lower federal floor. Republican supporters argue the current wage limits entry-level opportunities, while Democrats contend the measure exploits workers to enrich corporations. The proposal includes time limits on these lower-pay training periods.
Dispute Over Noises and Name-Calling at Planet Fitness Leads to Child Abuse Arrest
A 48-year-old F-Section woman faces a felony child abuse charge after she confronted her daughter’s 16-year-old ex-boyfriend for making noises during a workout and allegedly slapping him in the parking lot after he called her a name.
Ethics Commission Clears Flagler Beach City Manager Dale Martin in Golf Course Sale
The Florida Ethics Commission has cleared Flagler Beach City Manager Dale Martin of any wrongdoing regarding the $800,000 sale of the Ocean Palms Golf Club. An investigation by the commission found no evidence that Martin secretly shared non-public information or misused his position. The Ethics Commission advocate concluded that the sale was discussed publicly and Martin acted within his administrative authority.
Judge Bars Coastal Family Church Services at Flagler Square, Citing Covenants; Liberty Counsel Appeals
Coastal Family Church is appealing a court injunction that prohibits it from holding services at its Flagler Beach location, in the former Badcock Furniture store. Liberty Counsel argues the ban violates First Amendment rights. But Circuit Judge Sandra Upchurch ruled that private property covenants explicitly prohibit large public assemblies. Flagler Square owners claim a church would overwhelm parking and diminish retail value. The court suggests Flagler Square will likely prevail based on established contract and property law.
Flagler County Unemployment Drops Slightly from 5 1/2-Year High But Labor Force Also Shrinks
Flagler County’s unemployment rate fell to 5.5 percent in December, down from November’s 6.1 percent, though the labor force shrank a bit. State legislators are advancing a bill to further tighten unemployment benefit eligibility. Florida saw anemic job growth in 2025, hampered by losses in construction and manufacturing. Locally, the housing market reflects a slight cooling trend, with inventory rising and homes taking significantly longer to sell.
Just 1% of Coastal Waters Could Power a Third of the World’s Electricity
Just 1% of the world’s coastal waters could, in theory, generate enough offshore wind and solar power to provide a third of the world’s electricity by 2050. That’s the promise highlighted in a new study by a team of scientists in Singapore and China, who systematically mapped the global potential of renewables at sea. But turning that potential into reality is another story. Scaling up offshore renewables fast enough to seriously dent global emissions faces formidable technical, economic and political hurdles.
Flagler Beach Advances Veranda Bay Annexation and Seeks Resolution of County’s ‘Bobbing and Weaving’ Threat to Sue
The Flagler Beach City Commission approved the Veranda Bay annexation on first reading in a 4-1 vote, despite a looming threat to sue from the county. The dispute centers on whether 122 existing homeowners must individually sign off on the deal. While developers argue deed restrictions are enough, the county cites state law requiring explicit consent. Commissioners moved forward to force a definitive stance from the county, though a final second reading remains contingent on avoiding litigation.
Florida House Advances Plan to Phase Out Non-School Property Taxes Despite Anguish Over Local Services
Florida House committees advanced two major property-tax proposals on Thursday, including a constitutional amendment to phase out non-school homestead taxes over ten years. While Republicans argue the move prevents local governments from treating residents like an “ATM,” Democrats and local officials warn of decimated public services. Meanwhile, the Senate has yet to release a companion plan, leaving the final form of a potential November ballot initiative in a holding pattern as leaders negotiate.
Flagler Beach Poised to Annex Veranda Bay 2 Weeks After Incorporating Summertown, But Legal Hurdles Loom
The Flagler Beach City Commission is considering the annexation of Veranda Bay, following the recent 545-acre annexation of the Summertown development. While developer Ken Belshe envisions a vibrant, “Winter Park” style mixed-use hub, Flagler County is threatening litigation over compliance and homeowner consent issues. Concerns persist regarding the economic viability of new commercial centers, as similar projects in the region struggle to attract tenants despite decades of growth and ongoing residential expansion.
Florida Bills Would Give Data Centers Public Record Exemption for a Year and Shield Ratepayers from Energy Costs
The Florida Senate Regulated Industries Committee has advanced legislation to create a regulatory framework for large-scale data centers. Senate Bill 484 requires facilities to account for broader electricity and water costs, preventing financial burdens from shifting to general ratepayers. While the bill emphasizes local authority and transparency, a companion bill proposes a one-year public-records exemption for companies planning new developments. Lawmakers view these measures as essential to remaining competitive in the AI sector.
AdventHealth’s Freytag Cancer Center’s First Year Expands Access to Cancer Care
As the need for timely, specialized cancer care continues to rise in Flagler County, the Freytag Cancer Center at AdventHealth Palm Coast has emerged as a vital resource for individuals and families facing a new diagnosis. During its first year, nearly 600 people turned to the center for care, showcasing the importance of accessible, coordinated oncology services in the community.
Palm Coast Moves to Permit Food Trucks Beyond Town Center, Ending Long-Standing Ban
The Palm Coast City Council has unanimously approved a first reading of an ordinance to ease long-standing restrictions on food trucks, or “Mobile Food Dispensing Vehicles.” The new rules establish “principal” and “accessory” use categories, defining lot sizes and operating hours. While some requirements like lot size and permanent amenities remain, the shift marks a significant move toward a more business-friendly environment, following years of restrictive policies that limited trucks to monthly events.
8th Straight Pro Bono Award for Vincent Sullivan of Chiumento Law
Chiumento Law partner Vincent L. Sullivan has received the Jay Grife Pro Bono Award from St. Johns County Legal Aid for the eighth consecutive year. The honor is reserved for attorneys volunteering over 100 annual hours to help those who cannot afford representation.
From Flamingos to SNAP Cuts: Florida’s Legislative Circus Begins
As the 2026 Florida Legislative Session begins, lawmakers are prioritizing cultural symbols and controversial social reforms. Proposals range from replacing the mockingbird with the flamingo to implementing “fetal personhood” laws and cutting essential healthcare and food assistance. While Democrats seek transparency for ICE detainees, the Republican majority focuses on deregulating environmental protections and restricting abortion access. The session reflects a deep ideological divide, pitting local conservation and public health against developer interests and hardline partisan agendas.
AdventHealth Palm Coast Among Forbes’ Inaugural List of America’s Top Hospitals
Most people don’t think about hospital rankings until they’re facing a real decision: where to go, who to trust, how close is close enough. A new national ranking from Forbes offers added clarity for families across Flagler, Lake and Volusia counties, naming six AdventHealth hospitals among America’s Top Hospitals.
Florida Obamacare Enrollment Sees Sharpest Drop in 12 Years
The number of Floridians relying on a federal health care exchange established under the Affordable Care Act has dropped by more than 261,000 people after Republicans in Congress let expire the enhanced premium tax credits that help hold down coverage costs.
Palm Coast Set to Take On $582 Million Debt Over 30 Years and Invest $600 Million in City’s Utility Over the Next 5
The Palm Coast City Council is poised to approve a $280 million bond issuance and $45 million refinancing to fund a $599 million utility capital improvement plan. The resulting $582 million debt, to be repaid over 30 years, is already integrated into recent rate increases. While the investment aims to modernize aging infrastructure and satisfy state orders, officials face criticism regarding the city’s failure to secure grants, leaving residents to bear the primary financial burden.
The New Face of Homelessness: Flagler County Shelter Sees Occupancy Double Amid Affordability Crisis
Flagler County’s cold-weather shelter, The Sheltering Tree, is experiencing a significant surge in demand as freezing temperatures arrive. Rising housing costs, increased healthcare premiums, and recent federal benefit disruptions have pushed many working-class residents into housing instability. Local officials report that occupancy has doubled, with many guests arriving directly from their jobs. Supported by local churches and county-provided transportation, the volunteer-run operation struggles to meet the growing needs of a community in crisis.
A Surprise Tribute for Nancy Crouch as ‘Turtle Trail Artists’ Exhibit Opens in Palm Coast
More than 150 guests attended the Sunday opening of the “Turtle Trail Artists of Flagler County” exhibition at Expressions Art Gallery. The event featured new works by the creators of the county’s public sea turtle sculptures. During the reception, arts advocate Nancy Crouch was honored with a miniature replica of “Claude,” the trail’s inaugural sculpture.
‘Dredging Up Some of His Greatest Hits,’ DeSantis Delivers Final State-of-State Address
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis spent most of his 30-minute final “State of the State” address to the Florida Legislature looking back on his seven years in office, giving minimal attention to the agenda he’s focused on during his last year in office.
Senate Panel Moves to Scale Back Controversial Growth Law Known as SB180
After getting hit with lawsuits and objections from local officials, a Florida Senate committee on Tuesday approved scaling back a 2025 law that included temporarily blocking cities and counties from approving “more restrictive or burdensome” changes to growth plans. The Senate Community Affairs Committee voted 8-0 to approve a bill (SB 840), sponsored by Sen. Nick DiCeglie, R-Indian Rocks Beach, that would revise the law.
Flagler County Threatens Lawsuit Against Flagler Beach Over Annexations of Summertown and Veranda Bay Developments
Flagler County is preparing for potential litigation against the City of Flagler Beach regarding the annexation of the Summertown and Veranda Bay developments. While the county does not oppose the Summertown annexation itself, it challenges the land-use designation as incompatible with the city’s comprehensive plan. For Veranda Bay, the county questions whether all property owners signed the required petitions required for voluntary annexation. Both parties may enter a state-mandated conflict resolution process to avoid protracted administrative hearings.
‘That Pains Me’: Flagler Commission Will End $359,000 Senior Daycare Program Amid Tax Revenue Concerns
In a major retreat from safety-net responsibilities, the Flagler County Commission is shutting down the $359,000 adult day care program it’s managed for two decades. Commissioners agreed at a workshop on Monday to close the program by the end of the fiscal year in September. Commissioners cited unsustainable subsidies helping too few clients. Some 25 to 50 clients who may have no alternative will be affected. Fearing future property tax revenue cuts from state legislation, the county will now develop an exit plan for the program’s remaining vulnerable clients.
Trump’s Media-Muzzling Lawsuits Threaten America’s Free Press
Trump has always been litigious. Over the course of his life, he has been involved in more than 4,000 lawsuits. Many of these involved Trump suing for defamation over perceived threats to his reputation. Relatively few, however, have been successful, if success is defined as prevailing in courts of law. But using litigation as a tool for intimidation can produce other results that can count as victory. The president may be using the courts as a tool not to correct the record but to muzzle potential watchdogs and deprive the public of the facts they need to hold him accountable.
Flagler County’s New Nexus Center Aims to Compete with Palm Coast and Hilton in Local Event Market
Flagler County is positioning its new Nexus Center–the South Side library–as an event venue to compete with local community centers and hotels. Library Director Holly Albanese presented a fee schedule featuring a $200 hourly rate for the 2,500-square-foot community room, alongside options for gallery and portico rentals.
Flagler Beach Approves Historic 545-Acre Summertown Annexation in 4-1 Vote But Numerous Concerns Persist
The Flagler Beach City Commission approved the 545-acre Summertown annexation, increasing the city’s land mass by 20 percent. Despite a 4-1 vote, the project remains controversial due to its reliance on a fiscal study the city did not produce and unresolved plans for preserving 153 acres of floodplain around the headwaters of Bulow Creek. While supporters tout economic growth and local control, critics warn of rising utility costs, increased traffic, and potential tax shifts that could burden existing residents.
City Announces USTA’s 2026 Palm Coast Open at Southern Recreation Center
The City of Palm Coast announces the return of the 2026 Palm Coast Open, a professional tennis tournament sanctioned by the USTA Pro Circuit and the ITF World Tennis Tour, scheduled to take place January 30 through February 22, 2026, at the Southern Recreation Center, at 1290 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast, FL 32164.
Flagler County’s Jobless Rate Spikes to 6.1 Percent, Highest Since October 2020, and Labor Force Stalls
Flagler County’s unemployment rate surged to 6.1 percent in November, marking a five-year high as the local labor force remains stagnant. While tourism revenue shows modest growth driven by luxury vacation rentals, the housing market is signaling a significant slowdown, with the time to secure a contract reaching levels not seen since the 2012 housing recovery. Despite a slight year-end uptick in consumer sentiment, overall economic confidence across Florida declined throughout 2025.
Capturing the Essence: Laniece Fagundes Returns as Billie Holiday at City Rep’s ‘Lady Day’
City Repertory Theatre in Palm Coast celebrates its 15th season by reviving “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill,” running January 9–18. Starring veteran performer Laniece Fagundes as Billie Holiday and Ben Beck as her pianist, the production explores the legendary singer’s final months in 1959. Rather than a simple imitation, Fagundes seeks to embody Holiday’s emotional essence, weaving her tragic personal history and “cursive” vocal style into a revelatory, semi-fictionalized musical performance.
Parking Capacity Will Double at Indian Trails Sports Complex, But Council Also Wants More Fields Lit Up Soon
The Palm Coast City Council unanimously approved a $1.55 million project to add 136 parking spaces to the Indian Trails Sports Complex, nearly doubling its capacity. Utilizing city crews is expected to save $350,000. While the project addresses long-standing congestion affecting nearby schools and churches, council members are also pushing to accelerate a $1 million lighting expansion for additional fields to maximize tourism revenue and accommodate a growing schedule of year-round sports tournaments.
From Redistricting to Property Tax Elimination to School Voucher Failures: Lawmakers Convene for High-Stakes 2026 Session
Florida’s 2026 legislative session kicks off next week with lawmakers tackling a $117.36 billion budget, artificial intelligence regulations, and potential property tax cuts. Key debates include repealing gun purchase age limits, redrawing congressional districts for the 2026 elections, and addressing “growing pains” in school voucher programs. Additionally, Senate leaders are pushing a “rural renaissance” plan to revitalize the state’s agricultural heartlands.
Builders and Palm Coast Trade Legal Blows in Battle Over Impact Fees Ahead of February Court Hearings
The legal battle between the Flagler Home Builders Association and Palm Coast over impact fee hikes produced dueling motions before the holidays. The City moved to dismiss the case on Dec. 5. The Builders filed for summary judgment on Dec. 15, arguing the fees are unconstitutional and unjustified. A judge will hear arguments on the city’s motion on Feb. 2 and the homebuilders’ motions on Feb. 17.
As Data Centers Draw Opposition Across Florida, DeSantis and Environmentalists Forge an Unlikely Alliance
As AI data centers proliferate across Florida, communities are pushing back against their massive water and energy consumption. From Palm Beach County’s “Project Tango” to rural Osceola County, residents fear these facilities will drain aquifers and ruin neighborhoods. While Governor DeSantis has unexpectedly signaled support for local control over these centers, the state legislature’s deference to corporate secrecy remains a hurdle. A proposed solution involves requiring substantial bonds from developers to cover environmental damages.
Usual Suspects Line Up Against Recreational Pot Initiative
In filings to the Florida Supreme Court on Friday, Attorney General James Uthmeier, the Florida Chamber of Commerce, and Associated Industries of Florida are condemning the Adult Personal Use of Marijuana amendment, in what is a preview of oral arguments before the High Court next month.
Flagler County Rededicates Wadsworth Skate Park After $240,000 Repairs; Long-Term Plans for Concrete ‘Bowl’ Remain
Flagler County officials gathered today to rededicate the Wadsworth Park skate park near Flagler Beach following a $240,000 renovation. The project replaced 60 percent of the aging steel ramps and repaired existing facilities. While local skaters and advocates like Jay Wolfington and Carla Cline continue to push for a $1.5 million concrete facility, officials opted for the current repairs using available capital savings. Commissioners say a permanent concrete bowl remains the county’s long-term goal for the site.
Thank You, Palm Coast and Flagler County
It’s been a difficult year for the country and for the freedom to report about it yet FlaglerLive’s fundraiser this Christmas season once again exceeded its goal in this red county, which humbles me and fills me with hope about the community we are–despite and still, to borrow the words of Robert Graves.
Why Your Doctor Has No Time for You
We’ve all been there: You wait 45 minutes in the exam room when the doctor finally walks in. They seem rushed. A few questions, a quick exam, a glance at the clock and then a rapid-fire plan with little time for discussion – and you leave feeling unheard, hurried and frustrated. And what if you’re hospitalized? You may face a similar experience. More than half of U.S. adults say their doctors have ignored or dismissed their concerns, or not taken their symptoms seriously, according to a December 2022 national poll.
Donald’s Donalds, ICE, SB180, Ending Taxes, Flashing Guns, Sleazing Hope: Florida’s Political Top Ten List of 2025
Choosing the top political stories in an “off year” when no statewide elections took place is challenging — although jockeying for the 2026 elections is well under way. Property taxes and gun rights, meanwhile, have emerged as issues likely to dominate the 2026 legislative session, which kicks off in a little more than two weeks.
Pleading with Santa to Help with Our Crumbling Florida State Parks
A recent report by the state’s Department of Environmental Protection shows Florida state parks facing a $759 million backlog of needed repairs to “aging infrastructure, safety improvements, accessibility upgrades and modernization of essential facilities such as restrooms, trails, utilities and visitor centers” across Florida’s 176 state parks,” the DEP report says. Reading the report was like seeing an online review of a once-great hotel that’s gone to seed, Craig Pittman writes.
Palm Coast and Flagler County Holiday Schedule for Garbage Pick-Ups, Libraries, Transportation and Government Hours
Here’s the holiday schedule for Palm Coast and Flagler County government services, including courts, garbage pick-up, library hours, and public transportation.
Palm Coast Moves to Dismiss Town Center Development Lawsuit, Citing ‘Fundamental Misunderstanding’ of Utility Rules
Palm Coast government has filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit from Palm Coast Holdings regarding Town Center utility guarantees. The developer claims the city breached its contract by failing to guarantee water and sewer capacity, resulting in lost land sales. The city argues that development orders are conditional regulatory approvals, not absolute contracts. The city says no breach occurred because no permits were actually denied, characterizing the developer’s claims as speculative.
Community Rallies Around Marineland Dolphin Adventure with Cash and Gift Cards for Employees
After eighteen months of financial instability and bankruptcy, the staff at Marineland Dolphin Adventure received a festive surprise of over $4,600 in gift cards and cash. Organized by Flagler County Tourism Director Amy Lukasik and Flagler Broadcasting’s Kirk Keller, the fundraiser supported three dozen employees who, before the company was acquired on Dec. 1 by a nonprofit, faced missed paychecks and layoffs. Now under new leadership, the historic attraction is transitioning to a community-supported model.
Grappling with Shrinking Tax Base and Dissolution, Marineland Will Look to Soak Marina for More Dollars
The Town of Marineland faces potential dissolution as its primary revenue source, Marineland Dolphin Adventure, transitions to non-profit status, removing $44,000 from the tax rolls. With private land potentially moving into conservation and a restrictive marina contract, officials are struggling to find sustainable funding. But they are looking to renegotiate the marina lease to increase revenue. If the budget gap cannot be closed, Marineland may follow the path of Hastings, which dissolved into St. Johns County in 2018, and dissolve into Flagler County.
New Marineland Dolphin Leaders Promise ‘Miracle’ Turnaround and Wellness Focus, and Hint at Ragga Surf Return
New leadership at Marineland Dolphin Adventure appeared before the Town Commission to outline a wellness focused future for the attraction, now operated as a non-profit by Apex Associates. Directors Jack Kassewitz and Felicia Cook promised transparency, announced an upcoming National Geographic documentary, and hinted at the return of Ragga Surf Cafe. While commissioners welcomed the vision, the transition removes the property from tax rolls, costing the town one-third of its property tax revenue.
‘Define Yourself’: Stedman Graham, Leadership Coach and Life-Partner of Oprah Winfrey, Tinsels Flagler Tiger Bay
Stedman Graham, author and leadership consultant, addressed the Flagler Tiger Bay Club on Wednesday, sharing his philosophy of “Identity Leadership.” Graham recounted overcoming childhood discouragement in segregated New Jersey to define his own future. He emphasized that self-awareness is a prerequisite for leading others. The event, which also honored a club member with the Fang and Claw Award, drew local officials and followed Graham’s earlier appearance before 250 Flagler County students.
Battle Over Developer-Friendly SB 180 Intensifies as Home Builders Side with State Against Cities
The Florida Home Builders Association has intervened in a legal battle defending SB 180, a state law freezing new local land-development regulations until 2027. While 25 local governments and environmental groups argue the law violates home-rule authority and causes administrative turmoil, builders contend that blocking the law would disrupt hurricane recovery efforts. A Leon County judge granted the builders’ motion to intervene ahead of a Friday hearing on the plaintiffs’ request for a preliminary injunction.