November 14, 2025 – Flagler County Administrator Heidi Petito received an “Impact Award” from SMA Healthcare at its inaugural Gala of Light held November 8 that celebrated local achievements in behavioral healthcare.
“It was a surprise and an absolute honor to receive this first-of-its-kind award,” Petito said. “SMA and the county have had a fruitful public-private partnership as evidenced by the milestone groundbreaking on Tuesday (November 18) for a future crisis stabilization unit and men’s residential unit.”
Flagler County secured $10 million in legislative funding and SMA is contributing an additional $4 million to the project that will remedy the need for people to leave the county for a detox program or crisis intervention services.
Petito, who is an SMA board member, was recognized for her advocacy of SMA Healthcare and her role in the expansion of its integrated stabilization unit. She was praised for the compassion she shows for the residents of Flagler County, their well-being, and the belief that to have a thriving community access to behavioral healthcare is essential.
