New industrial board approves fee structure and prepares for first applicant
The Flagler County Industrial Development Authority held its second meeting on October 21, 2025, where board members approved a $1,000 application fee and announced they are working with their first potential applicant.
Lower Fee to Encourage Growth
The board chose the lower end of the fee range after reviewing what neighboring counties charge. Board member Chad suggested starting at $1,000 rather than $1,500 to attract businesses to the new program.
“My suggestion is that we start with our application fee on the $1,000 lower end just as a way to kind of stimulate some growth here,” Chad said during the meeting. He noted that St. John’s County, which has an active Industrial Development Authority, charges $1,000 and has issued many bonds.
Staff reported that application fees across Florida counties vary. Lee County charges between $1,500 and $2,500, depending on the project size. Orange County, Seminole County, Volusia County, and Ocala County all charge $1,500.
“We’re kind of right in that sweet spot regarding our application fee for our county,” staff reported.
The board also discussed potentially setting different fee levels in the future based on project size, similar to Lee County’s approach. Board members noted that larger projects require more staff work and follow-up.
What the Board Does
The Industrial Development Authority helps businesses by issuing tax-exempt bonds for projects that benefit the community. These bonds allow companies to borrow money at lower interest rates for things like building factories, buying equipment, or expanding operations.
First Application Expected
Staff announced that the authority now has one application in the pipeline. With the new fee structure in place, they can move forward with the process.
“Once that application is completed, the fee needs to be attached to it as well,” the staff explained.
The board expects to review the first application at its November meeting, depending on when the applicant returns all required materials. The $1,000 application fee is non-refundable once submitted.
Board Approves Bylaws
The board also approved updated bylaws during the meeting. These rules guide how the authority operates. Members had reviewed changes at their previous meeting on October 16.
Setting Up for Business
Board members discussed several items needed to get the authority fully operational:
The board is creating a one-page brochure with a QR code that will allow interested businesses to quickly access the application and see the step-by-step process. Staff will present the brochure design at the next meeting.
Members also talked about setting a minimum bond amount in the future. Some counties require bonds to be at least $1 million or $2 million to ensure a good return on investment for the work involved.
“We don’t necessarily get tied up with too much of a lack of return on investment by issuing maybe a million-dollar bond or a half-million-dollar revenue bond,” Chad explained.
The board asked County Attorney Michael Rodriguez to review state law to ensure all procedures are properly in place before processing applications.
Remote Meeting Access
Board members requested the ability to attend meetings remotely through video conferencing. Staff will coordinate with the county’s IT department to set up Microsoft Teams for future meetings.
“I have some issues coming up, if you will, that may take me away for a little bit. So I’d like to be able to attend the meetings, and the only way to do that is via Zoom,” one board member said.
Memorial Moment
The meeting opened with a moment of silence for Jorge Selenus, the deputy city manager who recently passed away. The board also honored first responders during their opening remarks.
Next Meeting
The Industrial Development Authority will meet next on November 18 at 1:00 p.m. Board members expect three other members who were absent to return by then, giving them a full board for the anticipated first application review.
The board chairman emphasized the goal of moving from procedural work to processing applications. “What we’re doing is not procedural anymore, but we’re sorting through applications. We’re doing the work of the people of creating an opportunity for growth and development within the county,” he said.
