The 2025 State of the City meeting began with formal proceedings including the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem, followed by an invocation from Pastor Mark Schrubb, a retired Navy captain.

Mayor Norris delivered a challenging assessment of Palm Coast’s current state, describing it as ‘challenged’ due to issues with swamp peddlers and mounting debt. He expressed concern about two major western projects and a proposed $100 million sports facility referendum. The Mayor emphasized the need to attract cutting-edge industry rather than relying on residential housing and low-wage service sector jobs. “We are still under the mercy of the swamp peddlers. We are facing mounting debt for uh failed planning and economic development and growth to support the existing residents. You know that you know the ones that are footing the tax bills us the residents of Palm Coast,” Norris stated. He continued, “And the answer from the swamp peddlers, and landowners is urban sprawl. We have two major projects that are being proposed for the west side of the city. One is dependent uh one is dependent on the sports facility being built and the decision has already been made by the powers that be in our community that for that venture we’re at our expense.”

Sheriff Rick Staley presented public safety achievements, reporting 3,203 arrests in 2024, with 1,362 made within Palm Coast. He highlighted successful rehabilitation programs with a 70% success rate and various drug enforcement operations.

Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill reported a record 17,256 emergency calls in 2024, a 25% increase from 2022. He noted significant achievements including a 40% success rate in cardiac arrest responses and containing 78% of fires to their room of origin.

Florin Johnson, acting City Manager, discussed economic development initiatives, infrastructure improvements, and community engagement. She highlighted the launch of a traffic calming pilot study and various community events including the city’s 25th anniversary celebration.

The meeting concluded with awards presentations, recognizing outstanding community members in categories including public safety, citizen of the year, next-generation leadership, and employee of the year.