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Motorsports fans in Northeast Florida could soon have a major new destination within driving distance of Flagler County.

A proposed 440-acre motorsports complex in Palatka is moving forward after receiving the government approvals needed to advance the project. Putnam County natives Scott Lagasse Sr. and Scott Lagasse Jr. are behind the development, which is expected to be built in phases at a projected cost of approximately $200 million over 10 years.

The property sits just west of the Palatka Municipal Airport, between Reid Street and County Road 309C. Plans center around a multi-turn road course for cars along with a smaller go-kart track, but the vision extends well beyond race day. SEE FULL ARTICLE

Created: 10 September 2026

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Florida Property Tax Lawsuit May Have Backfired on Amendment 3 Critics

Opponents of Florida's property-tax Amendment 3 went to court over its original ballot title, “Save Our Homes From Excessive Property Taxes,” arguing that the wording was biased and promoted the measure rather than simply explaining it. A Leon County judge agreed and ordered Attorney General James Uthmeier to rewrite the title. The result is far less catchy: “Increased Homestead Exemption; Lower Cap on Increases in Non-Homesteaded Property Assessments.”

But the court victory may have had an unexpected consequence. Gov. Ron DeSantis says the new plain-language title is actually polling better than the original. Instead of a political-sounding slogan, voters now see exactly what the amendment proposes: a larger homestead exemption and a lower cap on annual assessment increases for non-homestead property. Amendment 3 will go before Florida voters on November 3 and will require 60% approval to pass.

The bigger property-tax debate won't necessarily end there. DeSantis has also raised concerns that local governments could respond to lower property-tax revenue by increasing millage rates, fees or other charges, and has suggested lawmakers may consider limits on local government budget growth after the election.

For taxpayers, that raises a second question beyond Amendment 3: If the state lowers your property taxes, should local governments be prevented from finding another way to collect the savings? 

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Created: 23 July 2026

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 Palm Coast Planning Board Recommends Denial of 22,000-Home Westward Expansion Proposal

Palm Coast Planning Board Votes Against Major Growth Proposal

PALM COAST, Fla. — A proposal that could significantly alter the future of Palm Coast's growth received a major setback Thursday evening after the Palm Coast Planning Board unanimously voted 5-0 to recommend denial of the city's proposed westward expansion.

The proposal would allow planning for a large master-planned community west of the existing city, with the potential to include approximately 22,000 homes over multiple phases, along with commercial districts, parks, schools, and other supporting infrastructure.

Although the Planning Board's recommendation is not the final decision, it represents an important step in the review process. The proposal will now move to the Palm Coast City Council, which has the authority to approve, modify, or deny the application.

Board Members Raise Questions About Growth

During the public hearing, Planning Board members expressed concerns about whether enough information had been provided to evaluate a development of this magnitude.

Topics discussed during the meeting included transportation capacity, water and sewer infrastructure, emergency services, school impacts, environmental considerations, and the long-term financial effects of continued residential expansion.

Several board members also questioned whether Palm Coast should place greater emphasis on attracting employers and expanding its commercial tax base before approving another large residential development.

The unanimous recommendation reflected the board's conclusion that the proposal, as presented, did not sufficiently address those concerns.

Residents Voice Opposition

Residents filled the meeting to offer public comments, with many urging board members to recommend denial.

Among the issues raised by speakers were increased traffic congestion, pressure on public infrastructure, the pace of population growth, and the importance of preserving Palm Coast's natural environment and community character.

Some residents argued that growth should occur only after roads, schools, utilities, and emergency services are prepared to support additional development.

Others emphasized the need for careful planning to ensure future growth remains sustainable.

Recommendation Is Not the Final Decision

While the Planning Board's vote represents a significant development, it is advisory.

The Palm Coast City Council will conduct its own public hearings before making the final determination. Council members may accept the Planning Board's recommendation, request revisions, or ultimately approve the proposal.

Because of the project's scale, the council's decision is expected to draw continued public interest and participation.

What's Next?

The westward expansion proposal remains one of the most closely watched development initiatives in Palm Coast. As the application advances to the City Council, discussions are expected to focus on balancing future housing needs with infrastructure capacity, economic development, environmental stewardship, and the city's long-term vision.

Residents interested in the proposal will have additional opportunities to participate during upcoming City Council hearings before any final action is taken.

Photo Caption: Members of the Palm Coast Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend denial of the proposed westward expansion during a public meeting after expressing concerns about infrastructure, growth management, and the project's overall readiness.

Image Alt Text: Palm Coast Planning Board meeting discussing the proposed 22,000-home westward expansion development.

Excerpt: The Palm Coast Planning Board voted 5-0 to recommend denying a proposed 22,000-home westward expansion, citing concerns over infrastructure, transportation, and the pace of future growth. The proposal now advances to the Palm Coast City Council for final consideration.

You may want to verify meeting dates and any procedural details against the official City Council agenda or meeting record to ensure complete accuracy.

*** SEE MAP AND PROPOSAL - MEETINGS HERE! **

Created: 17 July 2026

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