Balancing Development and Conservation on the First Coast
by Danielle Anderson
Overdevelopment is the new buzzword when it comes to advocacy on behalf of stopping the latest commercial or residential project . But is it really true ? What are communities across the northeast Florida region doing to ensure we keep a healthy balance between urban development and nature ?
Talking with Flagler and St . Johns County leaders , including the City of Palm Coast , we get a look at what ’ s really happening .
How Much Is There ?
In Flagler County , there are areas designated as Conservation and areas designated as Agriculture & Timberlands , both of which are considered green space . These two areas constitute 84.5 % of the unincorporated Flagler County land mass , according to Jorge Salinas , deputy county administrator for Flagler County .
Working with the public to identify locations suitable for conservation , residents can even suggest lands to be acquired by the county through the Environmentally Sensitive Lands ( ESL ) program , with
Jorge Salinas the last significant ESL purchase being the Pellicer Flats in 2010 .
“ Lands can be suggested for ESL purchase by anyone , but any purchase ultimately requires a willing seller . Additionally , residents on more than one occasion have voted to tax
themselves to keep this program viable ,” said Salinas .
Salinas notes that many of the developments taking place now were approved pre-Great Recession , and new developments are encouraged to consider the impacts when planning future projects .
“ Flagler County ’ s Comprehensive Plan encourages sustainable growth , but these initiatives are left to developers . Developers are encouraged through the county ’ s development review process to preserve environmentally sensitive areas ,” said Salinas .
The City of Palm Coast has been a ‘ Tree City USA ’ community for nearly two decades . Conservation , preservation and development of green spaces are part of the city ’ s touted ‘ quality of life ’ pitch to potential residents and businesses , and they take it seriously . With a plethora of parks , miles of trails and a focus on preserving the community ’ s signature tree canopies , the city is a nature lover or outdoor recreation enthusiast ’ s dream .
Led by Palm Coast City Manager Denise Bevan , who has spent years helping shape the city ’ s policies , even as the city continues to grow , there is a deep respect for conservation among city staff , developers , and residents
Denise Bevan alike .
“ The City has many policies in our Comprehensive Plan to help preserve open space and green areas . While this is a Level of Service for the City to comply
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