Sleeping at the switch?
Back in 2016, both Volusia County below us and St. John's County above us passed ordinances protecting the open use of beaches for their citizens. Unfortunately, Flagler County commissioners seemingly weren't in tune with our neighboring counties. So now that Florida HB 631 was passed by the Legislature in March, we suddenly realize the public could lose their right to open beaches and now the rush is on to get a CUSTOMARY USE ORDINANCE cure by July 1st ... "Sleeping at the switch" as they say?
David J. Gustafson, Flagler Beach
Praise for code enforcers
As a resident of Palm Coast, my experience with the city's code enforcement department has been nothing but first rate. The job they are asked to do is never pleasant and always difficult. Following rules and public compliance is a challenge at best. Keeping our city presentable is their task and in the long run increases property values. I have attended many code presentations and witnessed as they articulate case descriptions. They are curtious, professional, hard working and dedicated. Our city is better because of them. So just a vote of support and thanks for their hard work from us would be appropriate. They have it from me.
George Lisi, Palm Coast
Palm Coast missing from Town Howl
I attended the Flagler Humane Society's Town Howl on Friday to celebrate recent advances in state and local laws protecting animals, including the recent passage of Ponce's Law, the city of Bunnell's prohibition of tethering ordinance, and the upcoming vote in November that addresses the prohibition against greyhound racing in Florida. I am not associated with the Flagler Humane Society, other than being an avid supporter of humane life for animals. I was joined by about 100 other concerned citizens, including representatives from the state Legislature, Flagler County Commission, Bunnell and Flagler Beach City Commissions, Sheriff's Office, and the Northeast Florida ASPCA.
Where was representation from the city of Palm Coast? The absence of any representation from the county’s largest city was obvious to all in attendance. I understand Councilwoman Heidi Shipley was invited, but was unable to attend.
As a Palm Coast resident, I would have hoped that the City Council would be more caring for the welfare and benefits for our pets. Maybe the City Council can stand up and show their commitment towards protecting our furry friends.
The city of Bunnell recently passed ordinance Sec 10-180, "Prohibition of Tethering of Dogs to Stationary Objects while outdoors with noted exceptions." It provides limits on the duration and weather concerns when tethering dogs outside. Bunnell Commissioner John Sowell cited examples of how dogs have suffered and endured horrific deaths while tethered and why Bunnell felt so strong about passing this ordinance 5-0! Though I am sure that concerns about tethering dogs in Palm Coast is less, it still does happen and even if we just save one dog, it is well worth the effort.
The Flagler Humane Society is urging all towns within the county to pass similar ordinances. Flagler Beach Commissioner Jane Mealy committed to do her best to advance this ordinance. Will Palm Coast commit to passing ordinances along with the county’s other governments? We sure hope so.
Brian Rosen, Palm Coast
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