The Flagler County Board of County Commissioners is poised to deliberate on a landmark settlement agreement with Captain’s BBQ on Monday that, if approved, paves the way for the construction of a new restaurant within the county’s scenic Bings Landing Park. The settlement agreement also assures stakeholders – which includes the public, employees, customers, and investors – that a master plan for this legacy property that fosters an environment conducive for sustained growth and prosperity for the future of Flagler County.
“After months of negotiations, both parties reached a consensus that not only resolves the legal disputes but also fosters collaboration to enhance the community’s recreational and dining experience,” said County Administrator Heidi Petito. “Through the intricate dance of negotiating, we found harmony in compromise and turned the page on a chapter that once held uncertainty. As a participant in the negotiated settlement agreement, I am grateful to have played a role in bringing resolution to this longstanding issue.”
The owners of Captain’s BBQ, through their attorney Jay Livingston, on Wednesday thanked Petito and her staff for their efforts in negotiating the settlement and said they look forward to working with the county to enhance the Bings Landing experience for its customers and all of the residents of Flagler County.
The proposed settlement agreement will be brought before the Board of County Commissioners at 5 p.m. November 20 in the Board Chambers of the Government Services Building, 1769 E. Moody Boulevard, Bunnell.
Key elements of the proposed settlement include the allocation of a designated space within Bings Landing for the construction of a state-of-the-art Captain’s BBQ restaurant that will include design elements of coastal Old Florida architecture. This development is anticipated to contribute positively to the local economy, create job opportunities, and become a focal point for residents and visitors alike. It represents a cooperative effort between Flagler County and Captain’s BBQ to address and resolve the issues that have arisen during their dispute.
“This settlement reflects our commitment to fostering partnerships that benefit the community as a whole,” said Commission Chair Greg Hansen. “We believe that Captain’s BBQ, a beloved establishment in our community, can play a pivotal role in enhancing the recreational offerings at Bings Landing while contributing to the overall vibrancy of our county.”
Dennis Clark, Chair of Scenic A1A PRIDE and member of the Hammock Community Association Board, referred to the proposed settlement agreement as inevitable given the circumstances.
“I know that most residents of the Hammock community and the Scenic A1A PRIDE will be disappointed in the result of the proposed settlement, especially after all the effort expended to preclude a new, larger restaurant in Bings Landing,” Clark said. “Both Scenic A1A PRIDE and the Hammock Community Association Board will participate in every way we can, working with County staff to get the best result possible for the community and Flagler County.”
The public is encouraged to attend the upcoming meeting of the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners to learn more about the proposed settlement agreement.
“We welcome residents who wish to express their views on this pivotal development,” Petito said. “Community engagement is vital in shaping decisions that impact the future of Flagler County.”
