Residents of Palm Coast demand action on aircraft emissions and local infrastructure issues

During the City Council Business Meeting on June 3, 2025, residents of Palm Coast voiced their concerns about community safety, environmental issues, and infrastructure challenges, highlighting the need for immediate attention from local officials.

One resident, reflecting on their long-term connection to Palm Coast, praised the city’s sustainable growth compared to the rapid expansion seen in the mid-2000s. They urged council members to prioritize their well-being and avoid burnout from the pressures of governance, emphasizing the importance of community engagement.

Another speaker, Darlene Shelly, raised alarms about the environmental impact of training aircraft operating out of Flagler Airport. She reported that the airport experiences an average of 520 flights daily, contributing to significant toxic emissions over residential areas. Shelly expressed concern over a recent plane crash off the coast, questioning the potential consequences had it occurred over the densely populated city. She urged the council to adhere to the comprehensive plan to protect residents' rights and health.

Infrastructure issues were also a focal point of the meeting. A resident highlighted ongoing flooding problems in their neighborhood due to inadequate maintenance of swales and culverts. They pointed out that recent city efforts to clean culverts were ineffective without follow-up work, leading to continued flooding risks, especially with hurricane season approaching. The speaker called for improved maintenance and questioned the city’s capacity to manage increased traffic from ongoing development projects.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of the importance of addressing these pressing community concerns. Residents are eager for the council to take decisive action to ensure safety, environmental health, and effective infrastructure management as Palm Coast continues to grow.