Palm Coast City Council voted 5-0 to settle the remaining litigation over the defective Holland Park splash pad, recovering $2.375 million total. The settlement falls roughly $1.2 million short of the city’s repair costs and legal fees. Council members cited “diminishing returns” for ending the lawsuits, arguing that further legal action would risk costing taxpayers more than it would likely recover in additional damages.
Economy
Florida House Approves New Hurdles on Already Strict and Stingy Jobless Benefits
The Florida House passed a bill Tuesday adding strict eligibility requirements for unemployment benefits, including mandatory weekly employer contacts and interview attendance. While Republicans argue the measure is necessary to stop fraud, Democrats contend it penalizes valid claimants in a system that already offers some of the nation’s lowest benefits. The bill also mandates the Department of Commerce perform bi-weekly checks on claimants’ incarceration and employment status.
Palm Coast Council Ties ICI’s Easthampton Development Expansion to Affordable Housing for Public Servants
Defying sharp public opposition, the Palm Coast City Council voted 4-1 to expand the Easthampton development from 58 to 71 homes. The approval hinges on a proposal requiring a Hosseini-led nonprofit to sell the smaller lots at cost to essential workers like teachers and veterans, a move proponents argue provides critical attainable housing despite residents’ concerns about density and transparency.
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.
Historic Stall in Hiring in 2025, Jobs Report Shows
Estimates for 2025 were revised down by more than a million jobs to a level of low growth rarely seen outside of recessions. The revisions show the United States added only 181,000 jobs last year — the first year of the new Trump administration — one of the lowest increases ever outside recessions.
Bill Would Ban Local Governments From Requiring Lot Sizes Larger Than 1,200 Square Feet
A proposal by a Port Charlotte Republican to ease local zoning rules to spur construction of smaller, more affordable homes has cleared its first House Committee. The House Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee advanced HB 1143, titled the “Florida Starter Homes Act,” on a 14-2 vote following debate over local control, infrastructure capacity and housing affordability.
Palm Coast Splash Pad Suit Settlements Reach $2.375 Million, but City Still Faces Over $1.2 Million Loss
Palm Coast has reached a settlement with the final contractors involved in the shoddily constructed Holland Park splash pad. While total recoveries reach $2.375 million, the city remains over $1 million in the red due to rebuilding costs and legal fees. The City Council is expected to ratify the agreement on Tuesday, officially ending the four-year litigation.
Bill Would Ban Local Governments from Adopting Climate Change Policies
Local governments would be severely restricted from implementing measures to reduce the effects of climate change under a bill approved Thursday by a Florida House committee. The measure (HB 1217) comes nearly two years Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation declaring that the state would no longer be required to consider climate change when crafting energy policy.
Concrete Batch Plant Company Again Seeks Hargrove Grade Rezoning Amid Traffic and Water Questions
Hard Rock Materials returns to the Palm Coast Planning Board seeking to rezone 10.5 acres on Hargrove Grade for a concrete batch plant. City staff is recommending approval, but inconsistencies or questions persist regarding traffic safety and discrepancies in water usage data. Opponents fear heavy industrial zoning could set a precedent for pollution and further industrial sprawl near the existing park, even though Hargrove Grade is Palm Coast’s industrial zone.
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.
Belle Terre Parkway Construction of Safety Improvements Begins Feb. 23
The City of Palm Coast’s Belle Terre Safety Improvement project is set to begin construction on Monday, February 23. The project, which spans south of Royal Palm Parkway near Fire Station 25, to just north of Pritchard Drive along Belle Terre Parkway, will provide traffic, safety and access management improvements along this stretch of the roadway.
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.
Flagler Cares Announces First ‘Neighbors Helping Neighbors’ Radio Help-A-Thon March 6
Flagler Cares is launching its inaugural Neighbors Helping Neighbors Help-A-Thon, a live radio fundraiser airing March 6 on Flagler Broadcasting stations. The event seeks monetary donations and professional services to assist residents facing housing, health, and employment challenges. Sponsored by local businesses, the broadcast aims to connect community resources with families navigating urgent crises.
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.
Palm Coast Parkway and Side Streets to Undergo $6.6 Million Nighttime Resurfacing Over 4 Months
Starting in May, Palm Coast Parkway will undergo a $6.6 million resurfacing project spanning 120 nights from the Hammock Dunes Bridge to U.S. 1. A council member questioned the cost and necessity of tackling the side streets or the entirety of the parkway, but engineers argued the preemptive work is critical to prevent road failure. The project includes side street improvements but excludes Belle Terre Parkway (between the two sides of Palm Coast Parkway) to manage the budget.
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.
Nonprofit Veteran Sheila Pillath to Lead Flagler Beach Historical Museum
The Flagler Beach Historical Museum has named Sheila Pillath as its new executive director, effective February 1. Pillath, who previously held senior leadership roles at the Community Foundation & United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties and the YMCA, brings extensive experience in fundraising and grant management. She succeeds interim director Cindy Dalecki to lead the museum’s community impact and sustainability efforts.
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.
Palm Coast Approves Food Truck Expansion and New Dining Hub But Missing Fee Schedule Draws Rebuke
Palm Coast City Council accepted a $55,000 donation from the Town Center Community Development District to build an outdoor dining area at The Stage. Simultaneously, officials passed an ordinance loosening food truck regulations to allow broader operations in commercial zones. The ordinance will continue to be amended, and the absence of a fee schedule drew a sharp rebuke from Council member Theresa Pontieri.
Judge Sets Nov. 16 Trial Date in Allete’s Lawsuit Against Palm Coast Over Town Center Utilities
Circuit Judge Sandra Upchurch has scheduled a two-week trial for November 16 regarding a lawsuit filed by Palm Coast Holdings against the city. The developer alleges that utility service uncertainties caused significant land sale losses. While the city defends its capacity and infrastructure investments, the court will hear motions to dismiss and amended complaints this March.
Expansion to 71 Homes Reignites Decades-Old Conflict Over ICI Homes’ Easthampton Development
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.
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.