Following a ruling today, a judge has ordered that votes cast on the proposed Palm Coast City Charter Amendment will be counted following a lawsuit by a resident who claimed the ballot language was not sufficiently clear. This decision allows voters to decide on this important issue through the November ballot.
In July, the Palm Coast City Council approved summary language for a referendum on the November ballot, seeking voter approval to amend the City Charter by removing a specific provision. The current section of the charter states: “Unless authorized by the electors of the City at a duly held referendum election, the Council shall not enter into lease-purchase contracts or any other unfunded multiyear contracts, the repayment of which: extends more than 36 months; or exceeds $15,000,000.00.” A majority of the City Council members supported removing this language, citing the need for greater flexibility in responding to emergencies, partnering with private entities, and ensuring that future growth-related infrastructure costs could be shared by incoming residents.
The proposed ballot language approved by the council read: “Shall Article VI of the charter be amended by removing provision 3 (e) related to the fiscal contracting authority that limits the city’s ability to enter into public-private partnerships, respond to emergencies, and have the ability to address growth by having future residents contribute to infrastructure costs.”
Mayor David Alfin commented on the decision, saying, “While I believe that placing this issue on the ballot was the right move, I deeply respect the concerns and dedication of all our residents. Our community’s active involvement in local government demonstrates a powerful commitment to ensuring Palm Coast remains a place where all voices are heard and respected.”
The City of Palm Coast remains committed to honoring the engagement of its residents in the democratic process and encourages continued input on matters that will shape the future of our City.
