As Palm Coast continues to grow and evolve, city manager candidate Paul Trombino III brings forward a bold, forward-thinking vision rooted in collaborative leadership, transparency, and strategic planning. With the city facing both significant challenges and transformative opportunities, Trombino emphasizes the need to balance immediate demands with long-term sustainability.
Meeting Growth with Smart Planning
At the heart of Palm Coast’s current landscape is the challenge of growth management. With a population nearing 110,000, including a significant retiree demographic, the city is experiencing rapid residential expansion that places increasing pressure on land use, housing availability, and public services. Trombino recognizes that western expansion brings with it environmental sensitivities and infrastructure concerns that require careful navigation.
He also notes that the city’s land development code, which has seen limited updates in recent years, may hinder smart growth efforts if not addressed.
But within this challenge lies an opportunity. Trombino sees the city’s Imagine 2050 Comprehensive Plan as a foundational tool for guiding intentional, well-coordinated development. He advocates for:
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Updating the land development code to promote mixed-use communities
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Hosting community town halls to engage residents, particularly around westward expansion
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Building partnerships with regional organizations like the Northeast Florida Regional Council to align planning and policy efforts
Strengthening Infrastructure with Transparency and Innovation
Trombino also points to the city’s aging infrastructure—particularly within utilities and stormwater systems—as a priority. Delays and cost overruns in key projects, like canal dredging and wastewater upgrades, highlight the need for more efficient project management and diversified funding.
“We need to modernize how we track, fund, and execute these projects,” he states.
His strategy for improving infrastructure includes:
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Developing real-time project dashboards for increased transparency and accountability
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Securing grants to reduce the burden on ratepayers and decrease reliance on bonds or fee hikes
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Using EBITDA analysis to optimize operations and improve long-term financial health
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Expanding wastewater treatment capacity to keep pace with residential and commercial growth
Diversifying the Economy for Long-Term Resilience
Palm Coast’s residential-heavy tax base is another concern Trombino is eager to tackle. Currently, ad valorem taxes account for over 33% of the city’s $120M+ revenue, while commercial activity—including sales tax and franchise fees—represents just 7.9%. The city also lacks significant industrial presence in key sectors like technology and manufacturing, making economic diversification a top priority.
Trombino’s proposed economic development strategy includes:
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Attracting new industries and broadening the city’s appeal to younger, working families
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Creating a certified site program to help lure manufacturers and tech companies
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Establishing an economic development authority focused on aviation, logistics, manufacturing, tech, and tourism
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Collaborating with the Flagler Executive Airport to launch an airport authority that supports business growth and development
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Expanding support for local small businesses to drive increased commercial revenue
Community Engagement: Building Trust Through Transparency
As Palm Coast continues to evolve, maintaining strong ties with the community is crucial. Trombino recognizes that some residents feel uneasy about the pace and impact of development, especially as costs rise and services are stretched.
To address these concerns, he proposes a renewed focus on communication and collaboration, rooted in a “One Team” approach that includes city leadership, staff, and residents alike. His engagement plan includes:
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Hosting regular town halls to keep residents informed and heard
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Sending out bi-weekly newsletters to communicate project updates, budget details, and development news
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Strengthening the council-manager-community relationship through transparency and active listening
A Vision for Palm Coast’s Future
Trombino concludes his vision with a strong commitment to leading Palm Coast into a resilient, balanced, and innovative future. He believes the city is at a pivotal point—one where bold leadership, community engagement, and data-driven strategy can turn challenges into opportunities.
“Palm Coast has every reason to be optimistic,” he said. “With the right focus on economic diversification, process improvement, and workforce development, we can build a city that thrives—not just today, but for generations to come.”
To view the entire public interview, click here.
