- July 31, 2026
Dear Editor:
I must commend the city’s planning board for their unanimous decision to reject the potential future land use amendment and rezoning of more than 20,000 acres west of U.S. 1.
It was a rare rebuke by this advisory body that reaffirms how jaded Flagler County residents are with the growth management of our community. However, anyone celebrating this vote should remember the real decision-making authority remains with the City Council, who will review this same issue at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 4. A rejection by the council is less than assured.
This public meeting will be crucial in that the project will either be approved and sent to Tallahassee for a rubber stamp transmittal, or the council could finally declare “enough,” and stop it before it begins. This massive development from an out-of-county multi-billion-dollar corporate developer would add nearly 22,000 homes to the city if approved. For too long Flagler County residents have been frustrated with officeholders who say the right things to get elected, but once in office neglect the interests of those who hired them.
Interestingly, the Aug. 4 council vote comes right before our local Aug. 18 primary election, where two current voting members of the council seek higher offices. This issue will give voters insight into where our leadership stands on growth management, and how they may vote on similar proposed mega-developments in the future. I implore voters to conduct thorough research before casting their vote. I would also apply the same scrutiny to those seeking office who are not yet officeholders.
As we see the consequences of continued unimpeded growth every day, remember that electing the wrong leaders this August and November will only compound our infrastructure issues, flooding and traffic congestion.
A “no” vote from the council Aug. 4 could change the narrative in Flagler County and show developers we want responsible development that respects local taxpayers, and policies from our council that prioritize the needs of current residents.
Casey C. Cheap
Palm Coast
