- June 16, 2025
In response to Flagler County’s proposed beach management plan, Palm Coast Mayor Norris posted a press release on his Facebook page explaining the rationale behind his stance on the Flagler County beach management plan. The county has proposed a half-cent sales tax increase; half of the City of Palm Coast’s share would be used for the beach management plan, while the other half would go into the city’s general fund to be used at the City Council’s discretion.
“My position on the beach management plan has been clear and consistent since the Palm Coast City Council was first presented with the finalized proposal by county administration on February 25, 2025,” Norris said.
“Even in our initial meeting on February 10—when no formal plan had yet been presented—I stood firm on one principle: Palm Coast residents should not bear an unfair financial burden for a service that doesn’t directly benefit our inland city.”
While acknowledging the importance of a sound beach maintenance strategy for the county, the mayor expressed concerns over the proposed financial structure.
“I believe the barrier island communities should bear more of the cost than the currently proposed $160 annual fee. Under the current plan, Palm Coast would become the largest financial contributor through a proposed ½-cent sales tax—despite not being a beach town,” he said.
Norris highlighted a longstanding imbalance in county resource allocation.
“Since the Tourism Development Council (TDC) was established in 2011 along with the ½-cent sales tax, Palm Coast has received only $1.2 million, despite having the largest number of hotels in the county. Much of the TDC’s revenue has gone toward administration and marketing, not infrastructure or direct city benefits.”
However, after receiving a detailed briefing on the plan, the mayor adjusted his position based on projected returns for the city.
“Palm Coast is slated to receive approximately 50 percent of the estimated revenue from the plan—around $2.7 million annually. These funds could significantly support infrastructure improvements, including road projects, if managed effectively.”
The mayor also addressed concerns about the tax burden on residents. “Because groceries and necessities are exempt from sales tax, the proposed ½-cent increase would have minimal impact on working-class families. Ensuring that essential goods are untaxed makes this option more equitable.”
Although Norris was willing to support the tax under these revised conditions, the final decision rests with the City Council.
“Ultimately, I’m just one vote. While I believe elected officials are responsible for making these tough decisions, the majority of the council opted to place the measure on a referendum—despite no legal obligation to do so under the Flagler County Board of Commissioners’ rules.”
The mayor emphasized his commitment to fairness and fiscal responsibility as the conversation around beach management and county funding continues.
