'Smart growth,' road widening and recycle bins: Mayor Alfin answers your questions

Palm Coast Observer
Opinion

The views, thoughts and opinions expressed in this article are solely that of the author in his personal capacity and do not necessarily represent the opinions or the views of the city of Palm Coast or the Palm Coast City Council.

Question from Robert King: Mayor Alfin, I believe that “Smart Growth” is simply out of the question nowadays because of lawsuits that threaten the city if a developer doesn’t get their way for their proposed development application. This I witnessed firsthand with the Matanzas GC (Golf Course) application; the neighborhood had no chance because our then-city attorney verbally cautioned council that they needed to think about how they would defend against a lawsuit, and to take this into account before voting. My question to you, Mayor: What actions can be taken to prevent developers lawsuits moving forward in the future? I’m personally not against development, but it should be for the right reasons. We live in a really cool place, and it can be something really, really special if we develop correctly. Also, why do all the homes being built look the same? Why aren't there better architectural designs, like a mid-century modern neighborhood? Or, a neighborhood geared for home business owners? Just an observation, sir. Thank you, have a good day.

I completely agree Mr. King, about Palm Coast being one really cool, very special place. Your first question regarding "developers' lawsuits" is intertwined with the long-standing debate over property rights — their importance and protection described by constitutional rights as a foundational pillar supporting our republic and its way of life. Land ownership provides a bundle of rights to each owner. Individuals and developers are both entitled to own property and enjoy the rights associated with the land. The land in turn is entitled and subject to local, state, and federal regulatory permissions. Our local development is subject to a comprehensive plan that acts as a blueprint for growth and development.

Palm Coast currently utilizes a comprehensive plan written more than a quarter of a century ago to regulate present and future growth. The city of Palm Coast is now, for the first time, opening the "comp" plan for review and comment by all residents. It is our hope that many will participate and assist in describing our best vision for future growth and development. The collaborative input of our community should dictate and detail future development, reducing the need for legal actions.

Additionally, the current comprehensive plan lists many requirements and details for building. The current housing market, combined with building requirements and cost of materials, reduces creativity in architectural design. I look forward to your participation in the comp plan process. Together, we can update architectural detail requirements, adding new creativity to floor plans and curb appeal.

Question from Elizabeth Affourtit Shanahan: Honorable Mayor Alfin, my first question is about recycling bins. Why were only 7,000 given out? Palm Coast has approximately 34,000 households. If only 50% recycle, that leaves the city 10,000 bins short. Poor planning is my guess. Why did the mailers sent (which I did not receive) allude to the fact that everyone would get one, when it actually was first come, first served? Or did favoritism play any part in those who received them?

I’m glad to be able to discuss, Ms. Shanahan, your question about the City’s “recycle bin misadventure.” When we changed our trash service at the end of May, our residential service accounts numbered 41,832. Our recycling rate throughout the community was approximately only 25%, or 10,450 residents. City staff observed approximately 12,000 residential bins removed during the last week of May and the first week of June. To date, staff has provided 12,600 bins to residents.

The city is committed to increasing the number of residents who participate in our recycle program. We will continue to advertise and put forward initiatives that help us all become better stewards of the environment.

Question from Mary Kirkendoll: With all the developments approved and breaking ground, it's inevitable Belle Terre will need widening from (S.R.) 100 to (U.S.) 1. The city just repaved this road. Although nice, wouldn't it have made more sense to wait until all the heavy trucks are finished and before these developments begin filling up, to put the money for paving to better use and begin the widening process? We need smart planning during times when budgeting is tight and being scrutinized.

Hello Ms. Kirkendoll: Please know that the city has been continuing to measure future traffic on Belle Terre Boulevard, from U.S. 1 to S.R. 100, with every development proposal that we believe will impact this busy road. At this time, a project to expand the Boulevard with additional lanes is not scheduled on Palm Coast’s 10-year plan. However, we will continue to observe and evaluate the possibilities, so we are ready to finance and improve roadways as soon as traffic count and flow require widening.