During the Flagler County Commission Workshop held on August 28, 2023, significant discussions centered around funding and planning for coastal restoration projects, particularly in the northern part of the county. The meeting highlighted the financial challenges and strategic options for addressing erosion along an 11.6-mile stretch of coastline.

A key point of discussion was the allocation of funds for the restoration project, which includes $18 million from the core and $14 million from the Department of Transportation (DOT) designated for the city of Lacker Beach. However, officials noted that despite having approximately $41 million from various sources, including supplemental funds from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and FEMA, there remains a shortfall. This gap is attributed to the costs associated with mitigation and the need for more expensive sand to protect against rock impacts.

The commission acknowledged that without additional funding, the scope of the project may need to be adjusted, potentially leading to a smaller restoration effort. The discussion emphasized the importance of phasing the project, allowing for incremental progress rather than attempting to restore the entire 18 miles at once. This approach could help prioritize sections of the coastline based on urgency and available resources.

Furthermore, the meeting addressed the future costs of ongoing maintenance and renourishment efforts. It was estimated that the county would need to set aside between $3 million and $4.5 million annually for these purposes. The conversation also touched on the complexities of construction methods and the implications of mitigation requirements, which could significantly affect future costs.

In conclusion, the workshop underscored the pressing need for strategic planning and community involvement in determining how to proceed with coastal restoration efforts. As the county navigates funding challenges and project logistics, the discussions from this meeting will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Flagler County's coastline management. The commission plans to continue exploring funding opportunities and refining project scopes in the coming months.