- March 28, 2024
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The Flagler County Chamber of Commerce hosted a meeting on the afternoon of Thursday, May 30, to discuss possible solutions to the economic impact the construction along A1A has had on Flagler Beach businesses.
The discussion garnered participation from multiple areas of the community, including Chamber President Jorge Gutierrez, Chamber Vice President Robbin Wilson, Economic Development Task Force member Mike Akialis, Oceanside Beach Bar and Grill Owner Johnny Lulgjuraj and Tourism Development Interim Executive Director Amy Lukasik, as well as a representative from the Flagler Beach Police Department.
"Other business owners have to come to the table. We're here. We're trying to work together to formulate something."
Amy Lukasik, Flagler County Tourism Development Interim Executive Director
Their message: Show up to the table.
“We’re hoping that will spear thought and conversation outside of what we already have," Wilson said. “It’s a universal issue. We deal with it every year. The difference is it’s super, super concentrated. It’s not going to go away unless we have a plan to offset it.”
There is hope for a panel to present solutions at the Chamber's Common Ground Breakfast, which is from 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. on June 20.
Multiple representatives at the meeting voiced their frustration with the lack of involvement from other business owners in the community.
“We’re sacrificing the Common Ground, really, for Flagler Beach," Gutierrez said. "If no one shows up, I’m telling you guys, I’m done. No more. People are not coming up to the board. This is it. One last-ditch effort. We’re trying to put something together that’s not just for Flagler Beach, but for the whole county.”