The Flagler Beach City Commission finalized the historic annexation of Veranda Bay Thursday night, after previously approving that of Summertown, expanding the city’s land mass by nearly a third. Passed in a 4-1 vote, the twin developments will add over 2,200 housing units and extensive commercial space in the coming decades. Despite prior opposition and threatened lawsuits from the county, the final approval proceeded smoothly with only minor public dissent currently remaining.
Flagler
Flagler County Commissioner Kim Carney Launches File of Life Initiative to Ensure End-of-Life Wishes
Flagler County Vice Chair Kim Carney launched the File of Life initiative to help residents properly document their end-of-life medical directives. Inspired by the loss of her mother, Carney donated funds to provide specialized kits containing necessary yellow Do Not Resuscitate forms and magnetic holders. Now, Flagler County Fire Rescue Community Paramedics are distributing these kits to ensure first responders legally honor patient wishes.
Flagler Beach’s $2.6 Million Beachwalk Project at the Pier Is Dead; City Returns $745,000 Grant to the County
Flagler Beach is officially abandoning its $2.6 million Beachwalk project, opting to return a $745,000 tourism grant after the Florida Department of Environmental Protection required a costly new dune system to proceed. The city will now simply refurbish the existing A-frame structure instead of expanding it. The returned grant money will most likely be reallocated to a field lights project located in Palm Coast.
Flagler Sheriff Among 18 Police Agencies Sharing $40 Million State Aid for Immigration Enforcement
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office is receiving $6,500 for 100 mattresses, $198,000 for 60 rapid ID devices, $46,000 for five in-car cameras, $7,500 for five handheld inmate-tracking devices, and $2,800 for 400 blankets. Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Cabinet approved the $40 million ask from local police agencies Tuesday morning. It’s part of a broader, $250 million state grant created last year to both encourage and reimburse local agencies participating in the sweeping illegal immigration crackdown pushed by President Donald Trump and at the state level by DeSantis.
County Votes 4-1 to Resolve Annexation Dispute Over Veranda Bay and Summertown, Ending Lawsuit Threat Against City
Flagler County has officially voted to settle its annexation dispute with Flagler Beach, ending the threat of a lawsuit. The 4-1 decision resolves ongoing conflicts over the Veranda Bay and Summertown developments, ensuring the developer pays transportation impact fees and grants the county a three-year window to purchase conservation land. The settlement clears the path for Flagler Beach to finalize the annexations this week.
Flagler Sheriff Solves 2003 Cold Case of Mary Lou Combs With Help From FBI Divers
Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly announced the resolution of a 22-year-old cold case after a submerged vehicle was recovered from the Intracoastal Waterway. The car contained human remains and personal items linked to Mary Lou Combs, a mother of three who disappeared in August 2003. A massive multi-agency effort involving FBI dive teams helped locate the wreckage, finally bringing long-awaited closure to her grieving family.
Scott Spradley, Flagler Beach City Commission Candidate: The Live Interview
Scott Spradley is one of three candidates running for two seats in the March 3 Flagler Beach election for the City Commission. FlaglerLive submitted six identical questions to the three candidates, with no length restrictions. Answers are presented here in full and cross-referenced for ease of comparison.
R.J. Santore, Flagler Beach City Commission Candidate: The Live Interview
R.J. Santore is one of three candidates running for two seats in the March 3 Flagler Beach election for the City Commission. FlaglerLive submitted six identical questions to the three candidates, with no length restrictions. Answers are presented here in full and cross-referenced for ease of comparison.
Rick Belhumeur, Flagler Beach City Commission Candidate: The Live Interview
Rick Belhumeur is one of three candidates running for two seats in the March 3 Flagler Beach election for the City Commission. FlaglerLive submitted six identical questions to the three candidates, with no length restrictions. Answers are presented here in full and cross-referenced for ease of comparison.
Tax Collector and Daytona State College Honor 12 Flagler Leadership Academy Graduates
Twelve local government professionals from agencies including the Flagler County Commission, Palm Coast, and the Sheriff’s Office graduated from the Flagler County Local Government Leadership Academy on Feb. 12. The four-month executive program, a partnership between the Tax Collector’s Office and Daytona State College, trains officials in leadership, budgeting, and service excellence to better serve Flagler County residents through improved organizational culture.
Flagler County Clears 1st State Hurdle to Acquire 153 Acres of Summertown for Conservation, Valued at $4.4 Million
A state environmental panel approved adding 153 acres of the Summertown development to the Florida Forever project list, making Flagler County eligible for conservation funding to purchase the land. While the developer is a willing seller, funding is not guaranteed, and tensions remain over a potential conservation easement if the purchase fails before the two-year deadline.
Flagler County and City Near Deal to Avoid Annexation Lawsuit But for Last-Minute Conservation Demand on Developer
Flagler County and Flagler Beach have resolved most disputes regarding the Summertown and Veranda Bay annexations, likely averting a lawsuit. While infrastructure and utility issues are settled, a new conflict emerged over 153 acres of preservation land. The developer accused the county of an “outright taking” after officials demanded development restrictions, though arbitration remains a potential solution.
Irwin Connelly, Environmental Champion, Former Public Defender and Flagler Beach City Attorney, Dies at 80
Irwin Connelly, a former Flagler Beach city attorney, public defender, and ardent environmentalist, died Wednesday at 80. Connelly was instrumental in protecting local conservation lands, including Bulow Creek State Park. A lover of Irish heritage and literature, he dedicated his retirement to literacy volunteering. He is survived by his wife, Brynn Newton, and son, Padraic Connelly.
502 Houses and Apartments, Shopping Center and Assisted Living Off Seminole Woods Boulevard Win Board’s Nod
Despite unanimous objections from neighbors regarding traffic and community character, the Flagler County Planning Board recommended approving the Seminole Woods Mixed Use planned development on 119 acres near Grand Landings. It would include 502 residential units and significant commercial space. Residents fear incompatible density and environmental loss. The planning board found the plan consistent with regulatory requirements, moving it to the County Commission for approval.
Survey Season: Palm Coast, Flagler County and Tourism Office Launch Simultaneous Resident Polls
Palm Coast, Flagler County, and the Tourism Development Office are simultaneously soliciting public feedback through three distinct surveys. The City and County are mailing invitations to assess resident satisfaction with government services and quality of life, while the tourism office seeks immediate online input for a ten-year sustainability master plan. The efforts aim to align future government priorities with community values.
Stark Appeal Bares Human Cost Behind Flagler County’s Pending Elimination of Adult Day Care Program
Putting a human face on a potentially devastating and looming budget cut, Palm Coast resident Stephen De Garmo, 82, urged the Flagler County Commission to preserve its threatened adult day care program, a vital resource for his wife, Rene, who suffers from Alzheimer’s. The commission chair was sympathetic and noted potential nonprofit alternatives. But the program faces elimination due to its dearth of clients and anticipated revenue shortfalls from proposed state property tax changes.
County Testily Approves $550,000 Hammock Harbour Settlement, Clearing the Way for 204-Boat Storage Facility
Flagler County Commissioners voted 4-1 to approve a $550,000 settlement with Hammock Harbour, ending a six-year legal dispute and allowing a 204-boat storage facility on Scenic A1A. Despite strong opposition from Hammock residents and reluctance from commissioners, the agreement invalidates special exception requirements and grants the developer building credits to avoid a potentially costlier jury verdict.
Percy Sayles Resigns as Flagler County’s Deputy Administrator Amid Toxic Dynamic Between Petito and Commission
Flagler County Deputy Administrator Percy Sayles has resigned after just three months, citing a sense that it was time to step down. His departure, announced by Administrator Heidi Petito on Monday, shocked commissioners but highlighted the ongoing toxic relationship between the administration and the board, and within the administration. The move leaves Petito isolated as the commission continues to seek new leadership.
Breaking: Sheriff Staly, Who Runs Flagler County’s Jail, Will Continue to Run Flagler County’s Jail
The Flagler County Commission unanimously designated Sheriff Rick Staly as the official correctional officer this evening, a move formalizing existing operations to comply with state law. The county maintains the physical facility, but Staly oversees daily operations. The ordinance includes no salary increase for Staly.
Future 1,160-acre Bulow Creek Headwaters County Park Would Be Almost as Large as Princess Place
Flagler County is planning the Bulow Creek Headwaters Regional Park, a 1,300-acre preserve featuring trails, a kayak launch, and wetlands protection. While design plans are finalizing, construction costs require phasing and grant funding, pushing completion to the early 2030s. Planners emphasize passive recreation and minimal environmental impact, utilizing existing paths and elevated boardwalks to protect the wildlife corridor.
Settlement Calls for Flagler County to Pay Developer $550,000 and Clear the Way for 204-Boat Storage Facility in Hammock
Flagler County has reached a $550,000 settlement with Hammock Harbour,ending a federal lawsuit and a Bert J. Harris Act claim–should the County Commission ratify it on Monday. The agreement pays $400,000 in cash and $150,000 in fee credits while approving the developer’s site plan and allowing construction of a 203-boat dry-storage facility on State Road A1A without the previously required special exception or further public review.
Flagler Beach Approves Conflict-Resolution Window to Stave Off County Litigation Over Summertown Annexation
The Flagler Beach City Commission approved a timeline extension to facilitate negotiations with Flagler County, aiming to avoid litigation over the Summertown development’s annexation. Disputes center on a recycled-water commitment, floodplains, and traffic impacts. The county initiated the formal conflict-resolution process. Both sides are optimistic that negotiations will make litigation unnecessary.
170-Acre Wildfire Off US1 and Old Dixie Prompts Brief Evacuations But No Structures Lost as Blaze Is 50% Contained
A controlled burn escaped on Wednesday, growing into a 170-acre wildfire near U.S. 1 in Flagler County. The fire forced the evacuation of a dozen homes before crews achieved 50% containment overnight. While light rain aided suppression efforts and allowed residents to return home, fire officials remain on high alert. High winds and Florida’s unique vegetation pose ongoing risks, and residents are urged to remain cautious as mop-up operations continue today.
U.S. Rep. Randy Fine Takes a Bow for Sand Money Flagler County Was Owed Years Ago
Flagler County finally secured $4.7 million in FEMA funding for beach restoration, money actually owed since 2022. While Congressman Randy Fine claims credit for a quick turnaround, the funds were long delayed by the Trump administration’s bureaucratic hurdles and federal inertia. The money will support the Reach 2 project, beginning in 2026, to reinforce the county’s vulnerable eroding coastline.
Lord’s Domain: Flagler’s Emergency Management Director Re-Elected President of State Association
Flagler County’s Emergency Management Director, Jonathan Lord, will remain the face of Florida’s disaster-preparedness professionals for another year. Re-elected as President of the Florida Emergency Preparedness Association, Lord’s tenure reflects a decade-long climb through the organization’s ranks. County officials lauded the move as a boon for local safety, even as Lord balances local oversight with statewide domestic security responsibilities.
Defiant Ex-Flagler Paramedic James Melady Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison, Calling Rape Conviction ‘Malicious’
Former Flagler County paramedic James Melady was sentenced to 10 years in prison for the 2021 sexual battery of an incapacitated patient. Melady remained unrepentant, labeling his conviction a threat to the paramedic profession. The victim, who discovered the assault years later through video evidence, detailed the devastating trauma that followed, including a miscarriage and mental health relapse. Despite clear evidence of the victim’s helplessness, the jury’s verdict on a lesser charge limited Melady’s maximum sentence.
A Hurricane of a Life: Flagler Bids Farewell to Firebrand Activist Jane Gentile-Youd
Friends, family, and local officials gathered at the Palm Coast Community Center to honor the memory of Jane Gentile-Youd, a formidable community activist known for her fierce advocacy, vibrant personality and her grudges. Speakers highlighted her complex legacy, her enduring marriage to Mark Gentile-Youd, and her impact on Flagler County politics, concluding with a tribute to her transformative and multi-dimensional spirit.
Florida Ethics Commission Dismisses Unrelated Complaints Against Three Flagler County and City Officials
The Florida Commission on Ethics dismissed three complaints against former Acting Palm Coast City Manager Lauren Johnston, Flagler Executive Airport Director Roy Sieger, and Bunnell Planning Board member Lynn Lafferty, ruling them legally insufficient. The commission found that allegations of conflicts of interest and mismanagement lacked substantive evidence or fell outside their jurisdiction.
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.
Flagler Fire Rescue’s Lt. Karl Froling Is Florida’s Search and Rescue Responder of the Year
Recognized for his technical expertise and leadership, Froling pioneered standardized animal technical rescue training following a 2012 incident in Volusia County. His work with the University of Florida and the National Fire Protection Association has elevated regional emergency response capabilities and established Flagler County’s rescue team as a premier program within the state.
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.
Sheriff’s Office Answers 19 Questions on Acquisition and Future Operations of Emergency Helicopter
Answering 19 questions submitted by FlaglerLive, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office addressed concerns regarding its recent $1.4 million helicopter acquisition, half of which was funded by attorney Dan Newlin. The agency defended the lack of a feasibility study by citing the sheriff’s prior air-operations experience in orange County. The agency clarified that the aircraft will focus on proactive patrols and emergency medical transport, and maintained that the independent office acted within its constitutional authority.
Palm Coast and Flagler County Propose New $2.1 Million Animal Shelter, Side-Stepping Humane Society
A joint task force between Palm Coast and Flagler County government is recommending a new $2.1 million, 9,500-square-foot animal shelter in Palm Coast to handle city and county animal control intakes. The proposal reflects growing dissatisfaction with the Flagler Humane Society and seeks to establish a municipal-run “no-kill” facility. However, the plan faces scrutiny regarding its lack of funding sources, the exclusion of the Humane Society from discussions, and projected operating costs that may exceed current expenditures while offering fewer services.
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.
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.
Sheriff Staly Quietly Acquires Helicopter from Attorney Dan Newlin, Launching Agency Into Air Operations
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office has acquired a Bell 505 helicopter, formerly owned by prominent attorney Dan Newlin. The county administrator was surprised, noting the acquisition was never discussed during public budget hearings. While Sheriff Rick Staly has considered independent air support for years, the acquisition will lead to funding and operational costs, especially as the county already maintains the FireFlight emergency helicopter for law enforcement assistance.
Flagler Fire Rescue Names Daniel VanDeusen as New Deputy Fire Chief
Flagler County Fire Rescue Chief Michael Tucker has officially promoted Daniel VanDeusen to Deputy Fire Chief, effective January 11, 2026. VanDeusen, a registered nurse who started as a probationary firefighter in 2005, is the first in department history to rise from that entry-level position to the rank of Deputy Chief. He succeeds Percy Sayles, who was named deputy county administrator in October.
Jane Gentile-Youd, Flagler County’s Tenacious, Mercurial Civic Firebrand and Commission Fixture, Dies at 82
Jane Gentile-Youd, a prominent and often controversial civic advocate in Flagler County, has died at age 82. Known for her relentless presence at County Commission meetings, she spent decades challenging local officials and championing causes like the demolition of the Old Dixie Motel. Despite health struggles and fierce political battles, she remained a passionate, multifaceted figure whose legacy of tenacity and community service spans from Miami-Dade to Flagler, leaving an indelible mark on local politics.
$15 Million Over Budget, Nothing Built Since State Guard Facility ‘Broke Ground’ in Bunnell in 2024. Sheriff Is Not Pleased.
Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly is frustrated over the stalled $10 million Florida State Guard training facility in Bunnell. The state-managed project is over two years behind schedule and facing projected costs of $25 million. Staly criticized the Department of Management Services for inefficiency and massive budget overruns, suggesting the project would already be finished if he’d managed it through a direct state grant.
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.
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.
County Administrator Heidi Petito Survives Firing Attempt by Kim Carney, But Her Days Are Numbered
County Administrator Heidi Petito barely survived a motion by Commissioner Kim Carney to fire her Monday night before an empty chamber, at the very end of a meeting that had stretched past the three-hour mark, and in an off-agenda maneuver fellow-Commissioner Andy Dance said was improper.
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.
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.
Reading Into Them: Flagler County Leaders’ Favorite Books of 2025
The third edition of FlaglerLive’s annual best reads project celebrates the personal joy of reading over academic or literary hierarchies. Featuring contributions from a local judge, attorneys, elected and other Flagler County leaders, the collection highlights diverse favorites ranging from Thomas Mann’s “Magic Mountain” and Erik Larson’s history to a legal decisions and self-actualization books. Here’s to venturing beyond comfort zones to discover transformative titles.
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.
Residents Contribute More than 150 Donations for Flagler Senior Services’ Be a Santa for a Senior Program
Flagler County Senior Services Department, in partnership with Home Instead, expresses gratitude to residents for their generosity in providing for more than 150 donations through the Be a Santa for a Senior program.