Input Needed for Florida’s 2022-26 Statewide Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan
Tallahassee, FL – The Florida Division of Historical Resources is soliciting public input for Florida’s 2022-2026 Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan at flheritage.com/comp-plan. The survey will be live until 12:00 p.m. EST on August 16, 2021.
Every five years, the Division of Historical Resources revises the Florida Statewide Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan, as required for Florida to remain a participant in the federal historic preservation program and to receive federal historic preservation funds. To be effective, the new plan must represent a broad base of public and professional input. Survey results will provide guidance and serve as the foundation for revising the plan. The U.S. National Park Service requires each state that participates in the federal historic preservation program to periodically update its comprehensive plan for historic preservation with input from citizens throughout the state. Florida’s current plan (2017-2021) discusses the state’s history, historical and cultural resources, and goals, objectives and strategies for all Floridians to participate in preserving the state’s heritage.
Preserving Florida’s Heritage, 2017-2021 can be viewed here. The 23-page full-color plan is available upon request from the Division of Historical Resources at flheritage@dos.myflorida.com.
DeSantis Scores Home Run with Florida Little League Players and Families
Palm Coast, FL – Hitting a home run with families across Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis made a trip to Palm Coast on Friday to throw the first pitch for the Little League Baseball State Tournament taking place from July 16-18 at the Indian Trails Sports Complex.
Adding a lunch stop at Knuckle Sandwich Sub Shop and an impromptu visit to the Community Cats of Palm Coast’s new thrift store location on US 1, families waited with great anticipation at the ball fields for the arrival of DeSantis to kick off the opening ceremonies at 3 pm.
The Vision Yields Returns on Investment
Arriving early, the governor spent time talking with the players taking part in the tournament as local dignitaries observed from the periphery.
Acting Palm Coast Mayor Ed Branquinho and former Palm Coast Mayor Milissa Holland relaxed in the dugout watching the excitement with a sense of pride.
“This is the future and I want to be part of the future of these kids if I can,” said Branquinho, committed to the success of Palm Coast’s future generations.
“They’re the reason I’m here. If I can do anything to make sure these kids make it to the big leagues, I will help in any way, shape or form I can,” he said, giving a nod to the city employees behind the scenes who helped prepare for the big weekend.
“I think we have right now, probably one of the best parks and recreation departments in the entire state,” said Brahquinho.
Holland was pleased to see the results of collaborative partnerships over the past decade paying off in such a significant way.
“It’s an incredible day. We fought for the expansion of these fields in order to gain this competitive advantage to bring a state tournament here,” she said.
“We love that fact that Palm Coast Little League has invested so much in our community over the years. They’re incredible and provide such an incredible amount of volunteerism, giving back to the next generation, structure, positivity – everything you love about our community is reflected here today,” said Holland.
Stated Significance: Palm Coast Is On the Map
Teams headed in from across the state from as far away as Merritt Island, Dr. Phillips, Northeast, Chaires, Ft. Lauderdale, Tampa Bay, Martin County North, and Sarasota, to take part in the state tournament.
Taking photos with each team, the governor’s staff offered athletes and coaches a personally signed baseball, while reminiscing about his days playing Little League and making it to the Little League Baseball World Series in 1990.
“My Little League team won the state championship, the tournament was in Lantana. We won, went to the southern regional, won that, and then went to Willamsport, so that’s exactly what these kids are trying to do,” he said.
Sarasota Coach Matt Snelson saw it as a once in a lifetime opportunity to motivate and inspire his players by allowing them to hear firsthand about the governor’s own experience in Little League.
“It was great. The kids had heard rumors about it so I wanted him to tell them the story and what did he do. It’s a good story for them to have,” shared Snelson. “It makes them want to go to Williamsport.”
With a love of the game it was DeSantis’ third appearance on the Indian Trails ball fields for Little League. Joining players twice while serving as the U.S. Congressman representing Palm Coast before becoming governor, DeSantis was happy to be back the in the grassroots community to help the with opening ceremonies.
“It’s great. They have great community spirit, and so many of the folks volunteering to put this on honestly that’s what I would expect from this area because I know there’s a lot of good folks here. I think that the tournament’s going to be really great,” said DeSantis.
It’s a Home Run
The community was thrilled to spotlight the sports complex while having one of the nation’s most popular governors in the area for opening day, including baseball mom and Little League board member Jennifer Katz.
“We had a lot of people put in a lot of work to make this tournament happen,” she said.
“The governor being here was the cherry on top. These kids and families will forever remember our little town as the town they met the governor in. He was a treat for everyone involved. We’re so grateful that he was able to make it. His people are fantastic and so easy to work with. We could not be happier with the way everything worked out,” said Katz.
Peter Schoembs, President of Palm Coast Little League agreed, and was grateful for the governor’s accessibility for the families and players, who eagerly posed for photos with DeSantis.
“This is the biggest thrill to have him here right now,” said Schoembs. “He’s just walking around shaking hands, this is fantastic. It’s just a dream come true for everybody here.”
Snapping a photo with the governor before taking the field, softball mom and radio personality Laura Z was on hand to help emcee the opening ceremonies. Traveling with her own daughters for softball, it was a chance to showcase the quality facilities and fields in her own backyard.
“They are so well maintained. You can tell that the City of Palm Coast, they really put so much into the fields here. A lot of people, they look toward Palm Coast as being some of the best fields in the state. And from a mom perspective we’ve got it all – there’s a playground if you’ve got little ones to keep the kids busy, the bathrooms, the concessions, everything is right here, and it’s top of the line,” said Zublionis.
It was a special moment for longtime member of the city’s parks and recreation team, Lauren Johnston, Chief of Staff for Citizen Engagement.
“It gives me chills. These kids are going to remember this for a lifetime. To see these fields come together and see our council invest in recreation opportunities for the youth, this is economic impact and a lot of local families here to support,” said Johnston.
Since joining Little League in 1961 at the age of 18 in Stanton Island, New York, Fred Lewis has seen it all. He declared Friday as a banner day for the sport and more importantly, the kids.
“My old coach said we need you to take this team until we can get somebody else,” said Lewis of joining up decades ago. “Needless to say, I’m still with it. I love doing it, because of the kids. (Today is) very exciting, especially with the governor attending. That’s a big deal.”
Fast Facts:
Matanzas High School Class of 2021 graduate Lauren Januszkiewicz performed the National Anthem, while Sadie Schnell and Emily Warren, state representatives of Palm Coast Little League Softball for three consecutive years were on the receiving end of Governor DeSantis’ opening pitches.
Eight teams are playing in the Florida state finals this weekend in Palm Coast, with the winner advancing to regional competition in Georgia. The winner of the regional tournament advances to the Little League Baseball World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, August 19-29, 2021.
Visit the Flagler News Weekly Facebook Photo Gallery here.
Florida Blue Foundation Launches Growing Resilient Communities Challenge
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St. Johns County 200th Anniversary Symposium: Then, Now, and the Future
St. Augustine, FL – The St. Johns County Public Library System, in partnership with the St. Johns Cultural Council and Flagler College, hosts the St. Johns County 200th Anniversary Symposium: Then, Now, and the Future.
When/Where: Saturday, July 17, from 2 pm to 4 pm, at the Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College, 14 Granada Street in St. Augustine, Florida.
Learn more about the fascinating history of St. Johns County and its many cultures, and discover ways we will share the stories of our history and culture in the future.
Enjoy a musical performance, reenactors, refreshments, and speakers including
Dr. Thomas Graham, Professor Emeritus of History in the Humanities Department; Christina Parrish Stone, Executive Director of the St. Johns Cultural Council; Gayle Philips, Executive Director of the Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center; and Dr. Ann Browning Masters, author, poet, and educator.
This event is free and open to the public.
Featured Photo: Bridge of Lions/St. Johns Cultural Council
Rating Service Raises Evaluation for Palm Coast Utility System Bonds
Palm Coast – S&P Global Ratings announced in June that it was upgrading the City’s outstanding Utility Systems Bonds rating from A+ to AA-. This is the second upgrade to the City’s Utility Revenue Bonds over the last 6 months when Fitch Rating Service raised their rating from A+ to AA. The Service stated the upgrade of the bond rating reflects the system’s improving financial profile that has benefitted from strong growth in connection fees and funds available for debt service in recent years, despite an expanding capital program.
The improvement reflects continued economic growth and diversification with the system. Components asserted in this elevation include:
- Our City’s median household effective buying income
- Affordable, stable water/sewer utility rates
- Strong and proactive operational and fiscal management practices
“These upgrades were extremely valuable to the City in helping to secure very low interest rates on the City’s Taxable Utility Refunding Revenue Bonds,” says Helena Alves, Palm Coast’s Director of Financial Services. “This translates into significant debt service savings to our Utility customers.”
The S&P Global Ratings Service is a national firm that evaluates the creditworthiness of a government agency’s department with regards to its ability and willingness to meet its financial obligations.
For more information on S&P Global Ratings Service, please visit www.spglobal.com.
Stay informed with the latest news and information from the City of Palm Coast by signing up for weekly updates. Visit www.palmcoastgov.com/government/city-manager/week-in-review to get started today.
NEWS RELEASE – City of Palm Coast
Written By: Brittany Kershaw, Public Information and Engagement
July 15, 2021
Stormwater Pipe Crew Surpassed Estimated Projects for Fiscal Year
Palm Coast, FL – The City of Palm Coast Stormwater Pipe Crew has already exceeded its projected number of pipeline installations totaling more than 40 completed projects year-to-date. Their original estimate was projected to have 35 installations completed in 2021, but at this pace, the crew should be able to complete as many as 56 installations this year.
The master plan for the Stormwater Department is to improve city drainage as a whole, addressing the entire system in a comprehensive and strategic approach. This ensures that floodwaters continue to move off roads efficiently. The completed projects have helped to drain water more efficiently from individual properties into the City’s drainage system comprised of conduits, culverts and other components that carry stormwater away from structures.
A recent project in the W Section proved to be a challenging task for multiple reasons, making its completion a joyous team achievement. The Stormwater Pipe Crew made diligent efforts to avoid any damage done to the homeowner’s landscaping, fence, and other property during the process. The Utility Department was required to relocate an entire water main and repair a Pretreatment Effluent Pumping (PEP) system line. This particular project was completed over the course of 4 days and involved multiple departments within the City and external companies such as Florida Power and Light (FPL).
“This crew has one of the hardest and most dangerous jobs within the City. I can’t thank them enough for all the hard work they do each and every day. They show up and give it their all!” says Kevin Nelson, Stormwater Maintenance Supervisor.
So far this year, the Stormwater Pipe Crew has completed pipeline installation projects in the following neighborhoods: B, C, E, F, L, LL, P, R, S, U, and Z.
For more information regarding upcoming City planned projects, visit palmcoastgov.com/maps.
Video link: https://youtu.be/jkCDxHjucWc
Media Release: City of Palm Coast. Angelene R. Davis, Multimedia Associate
Multiple Palm Coast Forums Increase Voter Education and Awareness
Bunnell, FL – There weren’t any fireworks and after more than two weeks of non-stop upheaval, the audience seemed relieved as candidates vying for the opportunity to be the next mayor of Palm Coast addressed the questions presented with civility.
It’s been a long few weeks since qualifying officially ended and the real race began. Since then, candidates have participated in a seemingly high number of forums during the condensed election cycle, including a Leads Into the Future business networking organization forum last Tuesday.
Serving as hosts of the Thursday evening event, members of the African American Cultural Society, the MLK Committee, the NAACP #5147, The Dreamkeepers, and SURJ were on hand at the George Washington Carver Center in Bunnell to hear the candidates address their questions and hopefully reach a decision before the rapidly approaching election day, on July 27th.
Moderator Shelley Ragsdale, president of the NAACP Chapter #5147 found himself reconsidering his initial candidate selection after the responses delivered throughout the evening.
“I was extremely pleased with the behavior of the audience and with the candidates. I think they were extremely informative, very candid, and we had a very well-orchestrated event,” said Ragsdale.
While the NAACP does not endorse candidates, Ragsdale will share his personal selection when asked. Flagler News Weekly opted not to put him on the spot.
“This forum was basically for people that live in Palm Coast, and we’ve spread the word from organization to organization that Black people need to come out and vote. We need to understand who to vote for, and it’s so important. We felt it was important to give them a forum for people to hear what was going on,” he said.
“I learned a lot this evening. I thought I knew who I was going to vote for and now I have to go back to the drawing table.”
With such a rapid turnaround time for the special election, organizations across Flagler County have been working as diligently as the candidates to both get the word out about the July 27th Palm Coast Mayoral election and educate voters on the candidates themselves according to Flagler NAACP 2nd Vice President Blanche Valentine.
“The NAACP is adamant that we have large community turnout for voting,” said Valentine. “It’s not to promote any one candidate, but to remind citizens that it’s your duty to get out and vote. You can’t complain if you don’t take part in the process.”
Members of the community from all ethnicities, ages and socioeconomic walks of life turned out to listen including Elizabeth Gustafson, who saw the bringing together of multiple organizations to host the event as one more opportunity to engage a wide range of voters.
“Our groups have more diversity so we wanted to be able to have those people come out and have their questions heard and answered,” she said.
The Palm Coast Mayoral special election is set for July 27, 2021.
Featured Photo: The African American Cultural Society, MLK Committee, the DreamKeepers, the NAACP #5147 and SURJ hosted candidates David Alfin, Kathy Austrino, Doug Courtney, Cornelia Manfre and Alan Lowe for the Palm Coast Mayoral Forum at the GW Carver Center in Bunnell, moderated by NAACP President Shelley Ragsdale (center).
Not present: Candidate Carol Bacha.
Flagler County Commissioners Represent Flagler County at State & National Level
July 15, 2021 – July has proven to be a whirlwind of a month for Flagler County’s Board of County Commissioners who collectively represented the best interests of residents at the state level, and individually were elected or appointed to leadership board seats, were presented advocacy awards, and earned certifications through the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) during its annual conference. Flagler County was also represented at the National Association of Counties (NACo) conference.
“I am proud to serve in leadership roles for the Florida Association of Counties and the Small County Coalition,” said Commission Chairman Donald O’Brien, who was re-elected to the FAC Board of Directors, and was appointed to the Executive Committee of the Small County Coalition. “It is so important to take every opportunity to fully support home rule efforts, both for Flagler County, and all counties across the state.”
O’Brien also earned an Advanced County Commissioner Level II designation following the completion of a comprehensive study program developed by the Institute for County Government. Vice-Chairman Joe Mullins earned the Advanced County Commissioner Level I designation, and Commissioner Andy Dance earned the Certified County Commissioner designation. The levels build up from the previous through dozens of hours of coursework, beginning with Certified County Commissioner, to provide participants with the strategic foundation to deal with Florida’s most intricate and complex details while fostering relationships with other leaders on the county, state, and national levels.
“I’m anxious to continue to pursue these educational opportunities to become a better and more effective commissioner, particularly in the area of policy,” said Dance of the voluntary program. “The entire conference was very beneficial.”
Commissioner Dave Sullivan echoed those sentiments.
“The presentations and guest speakers were excellent,” Sullivan said. “It was interesting to see that many of the issues we are facing here in Flagler County are similar to those facing many of the other 66 counties in attendance.”
Three commissioners – O’Brien, Mullins, and Greg Hansen – were presented Presidential Advocacy Awards for their work during the 2021 Legislative Session.
“Every day, our Commissioners work hard to tackle complex challenges and respond to the unique needs of their local area,” said FAC President and Palm Beach County Commissioner Melissa McKinlay in a news release. “Their consistent drive and dedication for their constituents is the reason we’re able to sustain our communities, and those that take the extra mile to advance the counties’ legislative agenda play a leading role in improving quality of life for all Floridians.”
Hansen credits the association and the Flagler County Legislative Delegation for their support.
“It was very difficult during this last session of our legislature to get our priorities in front of the members,” Hansen said. “With the help of FAC, and several phone calls, we were able to explain our positions. We were supported throughout the process by Sen. Travis Hutson and Rep. Paul Renner.”
After attending the FAC conference, Mullins attended the annual NACo conference in Prince George’s County, Maryland to accept Flagler County’s four awards.
Media Release: Flagler County. Julie Murphy, MPIO
